Which federal agency manages the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS)?

The National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) is managed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). This system was established to facilitate the background checks required for firearm purchases, ensuring that individuals prohibited from owning firearms—such as those with criminal records or certain mental health adjudications—are identified before a sale takes place. The FBI operates NICS as part of its law enforcement and crime prevention responsibilities, reinforcing the agency’s broader mission to uphold lawful gun ownership while ensuring public safety.

The other agencies listed, although they have distinct responsibilities in law enforcement and public safety, do not oversee NICS. For instance, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) regulates firearms and enforces gun laws, but it does not manage the NICS. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) focuses on issues related to national security and immigration, which are not directly linked to the management of gun background checks. Similarly, the U.S. Secret Service primarily protects national leaders and investigates financial and electronic crimes, thus playing no role in the oversight of the NICS. This clarifies why the FBI is the correct choice for managing the National Instant Criminal Background Check System.