Tribal ID cards provide a secure method for identity verification, especially on platforms like Gunfinder, which are involved in online arms trading. These cards meet high security standards and enable compliance with legal requirements. The verification takes place in a few steps:
- Registration: Create an account on Gunfinder and ensure that your data matches that on your Tribal ID.
- NWR-IDs: Request the required 21-digit NWR-IDs (person and permission NWR-ID) from your firearms authority.
- Upload: Upload clear photos of the front and back of your Tribal ID card. Ensure good lighting and complete visibility.
- Video Call: After the upload, a manual verification will take place via video call, during which you must present your Tribal ID card.
Important: Tribal ID cards differ from German identification documents as they do not possess an eID chip. Therefore, verification is done manually, often via video. With correct data and clear photos, the process is completed quickly and in compliance with the law.
Tribal ID verification on Gunfinder: 4-step process
Why Tribal ID cards work for verification
Tribal ID cards issued by federally recognized US tribes are considered a reliable option for many sensitive transactions. They provide a legally secure method for identity verification, for example, for platforms like Gunfinder[8]. But what makes them so special, and how do they differ from other identification documents?
Legal status of Tribal ID cards
In Germany, the Identity Card Act (PAuswG) regulates electronic identification. According to § 18 PAuswG, citizens can use their identity card to electronically prove their identity to private providers[3]. For citizens from the EU or EEA, the eID Card Act (eIDKG) provides a legal basis[4].
The German Weapons Act (WaffG, § 34) stipulates that when selling weapons or ammunition, the buyer's eligibility to acquire must be verified[5]. This makes reliable identity verification indispensable. Additionally, online marketplaces require a valid authorization certificate to query personal data from state-issued identification documents[3][4].
Differences between Tribal ID cards and other state-issued identification documents
Tribal ID cards are issued by 574 federally recognized tribes in the USA, with each tribe setting its own criteria[9]. However, there are some significant differences compared to German identity cards. A notable point: Tribal ID cards do not have an eID chip. As a result, they cannot be used with the AusweisApp or with automated card readers[7].
Since the eID chip is missing, the verification of Tribal ID cards is usually done manually. Often, video verification is used, where an employee checks the data[2][6]. Platforms like ID.me use this procedure, while standard identification documents can often be verified automatically through selfie videos[6]. A practical advantage of Tribal ID cards: They are accepted even if no expiration date is indicated, as long as a birth date is present[6].
How to verify your Tribal ID card on Gunfinder

The verification of your Tribal ID card on Gunfinder takes place via video call, not through an automated process. This ensures a thorough security check, but remains straightforward if you keep a few things in mind.
Setting up your account
The first step is to create a personal account on Gunfinder. Important: Your account may only be used by you – sharing is not allowed. Provide your personal data during registration and ensure that it exactly matches the information on your Tribal ID card.
For firearms transactions, you will also need your 21-digit NWR-IDs. These include:
- Person NWR-ID (starting with "P")
- Permission NWR-ID (starting with "E")
You can request these IDs in advance from your responsible firearms authority. Once your account is set up, you can proceed with the upload of your Tribal ID card.
Uploading your Tribal ID card
When uploading your Tribal ID card, strict guidelines apply. You must upload both the front and back of the card. It is particularly important that:
- Both sides are sharp and free of shadows or reflections.
- Your birth date is clearly visible (you must be at least 18 years old).
- The card is not marked as invalid (e.g., no cut corners, holes, or "VOID" stamps).
Only the original document will be accepted – no copies. Photograph the card in good lighting and ensure that no reflections interfere. Once the upload is complete, you can proceed to the next step.
What happens after the upload
After the upload, you will be placed in a queue for a video call. The estimated waiting time will be displayed to you – based on experience, waiting times are shortest between 9:00 PM and 9:00 AM Pacific Time. Alternatively, you can schedule an appointment for a later time.
In the video call, you must hold your original Tribal ID card up to the camera. Ensure that your device provides stable audio and video transmission. To avoid disconnections, your device should remain regularly activated. Once the video call is successfully completed, your verification is complete.
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Tips for a successful verification
Have you familiarized yourself with your data and the upload process? Great! Now the following tips will ensure that your verification process runs smoothly.
Matching your ID information with your account
One of the most common reasons for a rejected verification is mismatched data. Your name, address, and birth date must exactly match the information on your Tribal ID card – including any middle names and name additions[10][11]. To avoid errors, you can request a master data sheet from your responsible firearms authority before registration. There you can see which data is stored in the National Weapons Register (NWR)[1][12]. This way, you ensure that typos or differing spellings do not cause problems.
Taking clear ID photos – here's how
For a flawless photo of your ID card, pay attention to the lighting conditions. It is best to photograph in bright, indirect daylight and avoid using flash to prevent disturbing reflections on the laminated surface[10]. Place the card on a dark background so that all four corners are clearly visible.
To avoid blurriness, hold your smartphone with both hands or rest it on a stable surface. Blurry images can unnecessarily prolong the verification process[10]. Remove the card from any protective covers before taking the photo – only original documents are accepted[13]. Finally, check that the name of your tribe and your birth date are clearly legible. This way, you can avoid unnecessary delays during the final video call.
Conclusion: Secure and uncomplicated verification with Tribal ID cards
The verification of your Tribal ID card on Gunfinder is not only easy but also secure. Since the Tribal ID has the same legal status as a driver's license or passport, it offers a practical alternative for identity verification in arms trading.
Thanks to modern security measures such as end-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication, your data remains protected. Your submission will be reviewed within 24 hours[12]. These standards also ensure compliance with all legal requirements.
The verification meets the requirements of the National Weapons Register (NWR). Through the NWR-ID, a unique assignment of your data and permissions takes place[1], which provides a legal basis for legal transactions. Commercial firearms dealers are required to report all business transactions electronically to the NWR[1], which is why a verified identity is indispensable.
With clear photos, correct information, and a complete master data sheet, the verification process becomes a breeze. This way, you can act safely and in compliance with the law on Gunfinder.
FAQs
Why do Tribal ID cards not require eID chips for verification?
Tribal ID cards do not use eID chips because they utilize different approaches for identity verification. In the USA, these cards are issued by the respective tribes and contain specific information that ensures their legitimacy and validity.
The verification usually occurs through alternative methods, such as checking visible security features or confirmation by the issuing tribal authority. Therefore, the use of eID chips is not necessary.
How does the verification of Tribal ID cards work and how does it differ from the verification of German identity cards?
The verification of Tribal ID cards typically occurs through platforms like ID.me. Here, the identity of the cardholder is confirmed. These cards serve, for example, as official photo identification, are valid for 5 years, and can be used for age verification or travel checks.
A comparison with the verification of German identity cards is difficult, as there is no precise information available about the German procedure. While Tribal ID cards are often verified online in the USA, different requirements or systems may be used in Germany. If you want to use a Tribal ID card on platforms like Gunfinder, simply follow the verification steps provided there.
How can I verify my Tribal ID card on Gunfinder?
Currently, there are no specific details on how you can verify your Tribal ID card on Gunfinder. While topics such as the purchasing process for firearms, authenticity checks, and the NWR-ID system are addressed, concrete steps for verifying a Tribal ID card are lacking.
To gain more clarity, you should contact Gunfinder's customer support directly or check the help pages on their website. There you will find the necessary information to clarify your question.