Florida Gun Laws
If you’re looking to obtain a legal firearm in Florida, here are some things about the permit process you should know:
Florida is a permitless carry state that allows any 21-year-old to carry concealed.
Is there a waiting period to buy a gun in Florida?
Yes. There is a three-day waiting period though some counties requiring a waiting period of up to five days. The waiting period is waived for Florida Concealed Weapon License holders.
Who is eligible to obtain a Concealed Weapon License in Florida?
Any state resident who is at least 21 years of age or 18 years of age and in the military who has completed a firearm training course. Any domestic violence conviction or active warrants for a misdemeanor or afelony will disqualify you from obtaining a pistol permit.
Is there a firearms-training requirement in Florida for a Concealed Weapon License?
Yes. A Concealed Weapon License applicant in Florida must complete a state-approved firearm-training course and demonstrate knowledge of firearms safety prior to being issued a permit.
What are the requirements to obtain a handgun permit in Florida?
Applicants for a Florida Concealed Weapon License must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Be a resident of Florida
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be a suitable person to be licensed
- Completed a handgun-competency course
What are the steps to obtain a Concealed Weapon License in Florida?
Applications can be made in person or by mail.
- Obtain an application from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (gov) or make an appointment with a FDACS regional office.
- Compete a firearm-training competency course
- Obtain a passport-style photo and set of fingerprints
- Submit the application, firearm-training documentation, photo, fingerprints, and fees
How much does a Florida conceal carry permit cost?
The fee for a Florida Concealed Weapon License is $42 for the fingerprint processing plus $55 for the license fee. Renewals are $45.
Does Florida recognize pistol permits from other states?
Yes. Florida recognizes all concealed-weapon licenses issued by other states.
Is Florida a Constitutional Carry state?
Yes. Florida is a Constitutional Carry state.
Is Florida an Open Carry state?
No. Florida is not an Open Carry state, but it has exceptions that include allowing theh practice when engaged in fishing, camping, lawful hunting, or target shooting at an indoor range.
Is Florida a Stand Your Ground state?
Yes. Florida is a Stand Your Ground state. There is no duty to retreat under Florida law.
Are AR-style and other semi-auto rifles legal in Florida?
Yes. Magazine-fed semi-auto rifles are legal to buy and possess in Florida.
Are standard-capacity magazines allowed in Florida?
Yes. In Florida, there are no state magazine-capacity restrictions.
What are Florida gun-storage laws?
Yes. In Florida, the law for storing firearms where children are present states it is unlawful to recklessly leave a loaded firearm in a manner that would endanger a minor under the age of 16.
Is Florida a Red Flag state?
Yes. Florida has a red-flag law that allows the police to get judicial approval to confiscate, for up to a year, the firearms of a person deemed a danger to themselves or others.
