Skip to main content
U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock ( ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

About ATF

Image
ATF headquarters courtyard

Our Mission

ATF protects America’s communities by confronting violent crime driven by the illegal use of firearms, explosives, and acts of arson.  Our special agents concentrate on identifying and dismantling illegal firearms traffickers who fuel violence by arming prohibited persons, gang members, drug cartels, illegal aliens, and terrorist organizations.

Through advanced Crime Gun Intelligence (NIBIN, firearms tracing, and touch DNA); ATF partners with state and local law enforcement to investigate, identify, and prosecute violent offenders.  At the same time, we safeguard lawful commerce and uphold the Constitution of the United States.

Our Vision

A leader in the Nation’s fight to disrupt violent crime for safer communities.

Our Values

We pledge an unwavering professional and organizational commitment to:

  • Commit to the health, safety, and well-being of our workforce.
  • Maintain open communication, transparency, and accountability with the communities we serve.
  • Manage our resources efficiently and effectively.
  • Remain agile through continuous learning and self-improvement.
  • Treat everyone with respect and dignity.
  • Uphold the highest levels of integrity and professionalism.

 

Last Updated: November 21, 2025

ATF.gov

An official website of the U.S. Department of Justice

Looking for U.S. government information and services?
Visit USA.gov