Florida Concealed Carry & Weapon License Guide
Florida became a permitless carry state in July 2023, allowing anyone 21 and older who can legally possess a firearm to carry concealed without a permit. However, the Concealed Weapon License (CWL) still offers benefits including reciprocity with other states, ability to purchase firearms without waiting period, and streamlined transactions at dealers.
- Permitless carry since July 2023
- CWL provides reciprocity with 35+ states
- License valid for 7 years
- Proof of firearms competency required for CWL
- Open carry remains prohibited (with limited exceptions)
- Military and veterans get expedited processing
At a Glance
Quick Answer: Florida Concealed Carry
Last updated: 2025-01-02
Florida is a constitutional carry state. You do not need a permit to carry a concealed firearm if you are 21 or older and legally allowed to possess a firearm. However, Florida offers an optional Concealed Weapon License (CWL) for benefits like reciprocity with other states. The permit costs $97 and is valid for 7 years. Training of specified hours is required.
Permit Required?
No (Constitutional Carry)
Minimum Age
21 years old
Training Required?
Yes (varies hours)
Permit Cost
$97
Processing Time
50-90 days
States Honoring Permit
35+ states
Common Questions
- Do I need a permit to carry concealed in Florida?
- No. Florida is a constitutional carry state. Anyone 21 or older who can legally possess a firearm may carry concealed without a permit.
- How much does a Florida concealed carry permit cost?
- The Concealed Weapon License (CWL) costs $97, valid for 7 years.
- Is training required for a Florida CCW permit?
- Yes. Florida requires firearms safety training.
- Can I open carry in Florida?
- Open carry is restricted in Florida. Check local laws for specific regulations.
Source: USGunClasses.com - Florida Concealed Carry Permit Guide. Information verified as of 2025-01-02. Always verify current laws with official state sources before carrying.
Florida Concealed Carry Quick Facts
Essential information at a glance
Permit Type
Concealed Weapon License (CWL)
Issued By
Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
Processing Time
50-90 days
Cost Range
$97
Valid For
7 years
Permit Required?
Constitutional Carry
How to Get a Concealed Carry Permit in Florida
Step-by-step guide to obtaining your permit
Timeline:Standard processing takes 50-90 days. Military applicants receive expedited processing.
Complete Firearms Competency Training
Complete an acceptable firearms safety or training course to demonstrate competency with a firearm.
- Hunter education course accepted
- NRA firearms safety course accepted
- Military service qualifies
- Law enforcement training qualifies
Gather Required Documents
Collect proof of training, valid ID, and any additional documentation needed for your application.
- Training certificate or DD-214
- Valid photo ID
- Proof of citizenship or residency
Visit Tax Collector or Apply Online
Submit your application at a regional office, participating tax collector office, or complete the online application.
- Electronic fingerprinting required
- Passport photo taken at appointment
- Application fee of $97
- Documents scanned electronically
Complete Fingerprinting
Have your fingerprints captured electronically at the same appointment where you submit your application.
- LiveScan fingerprinting
- Submitted for state and FBI background check
Pass Background Check
The Department of Agriculture will conduct comprehensive background checks through state and federal databases.
- Criminal history check
- Mental health records review
- Processing typically 50-90 days
Receive Your CWL
Once approved, your Concealed Weapon License will be mailed to your address on file.
- Valid for 7 years
- Card mailed to your address
- Check status online through FDACS website
Pro Tips
- Schedule your appointment early - popular locations book up quickly
- Bring all documents even if applying online (backup)
- Veterans should bring DD-214 for fee waivers and expedited processing
- Check status online through FDACS website
Florida Concealed Carry Requirements
Eligibility criteria and prerequisites
Age Requirements
Standard Applicant
21+ years old
Must be at least 21 years old
Military Service Member
18+ years old
Active duty military and veterans discharged honorably may apply at 18
Residency Requirements
Florida residents apply through FDACS. Non-residents may also apply but must meet all requirements.
Documentation needed:
- Valid Florida ID or out-of-state ID for non-residents
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency
Background Check Criteria
FDACS conducts comprehensive criminal and mental health background checks through FDLE and FBI.
Checks performed include:
- Florida criminal history
- FBI National Criminal Database
- Mental health records
- Drug history
- Outstanding warrants
Background checks typically complete within 60-90 days.
Disqualifying Factors
Convicted of a felony
- - Any felony conviction disqualifies
- - Must have civil rights restored
Certain misdemeanor convictions
- - Domestic violence misdemeanor (permanent ban)
- - Drug-related misdemeanors within past 3 years
- - Violence-related misdemeanors within past 3 years
Mental health-related disqualifications
- - Adjudicated mentally defective
- - Committed to mental institution
- - Voluntarily admitted for mental health treatment within past 5 years (firearms prohibited for 5 years after)
Substance abuse issues
- - Habitual alcohol abuser
- - Chronic drug user
- - Committed for drug or alcohol treatment within past 3 years
Active injunction
- - Subject to domestic violence injunction
- - Subject to risk protection order
Florida-Specific Prerequisites
Physical Infirmity Exemption
Applicants with physical infirmity that prevents them from completing live-fire training may obtain exemption
How to obtain: Medical documentation required
Florida Training Requirements
Required training to obtain your permit
Total Hours Required
Varies
Classroom Hours
N/A
Range Hours
N/A
Cert Validity
No expiration on training certificates
Approved Training Formats
Hunter Education Course
Any hunter education or safety course approved by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission or similar agency.
Pros:
- May already have completed
- Broadly accepted
NRA Firearms Safety Course
Any NRA firearms safety or training course.
Pros:
- Widely available
- Comprehensive training
Law Enforcement/Security Training
Any firearms training offered for security guards, investigators, or law enforcement.
Pros:
- Thorough training
- Professional instruction
Military Service
DD-214 showing honorable discharge proves competency.
Pros:
- No additional training needed
- Fee waiver available
Accepted Certifications
| Certification | Organization | State Approved |
|---|---|---|
Hunter Safety Course Certificate Hunter education course from any state | FWC or similar state agency | Yes |
NRA Course Completion Any NRA firearms safety or training course | National Rifle Association | Yes |
DD-214 Proof of honorable military discharge | U.S. Armed Forces | Yes |
Training Exemptions
Some applicants may qualify for training exemptions:
Military Service
Active duty military and honorably discharged veterans
Required docs: DD-214, Military ID, Current orders
Law Enforcement
Current and retired law enforcement officers
Required docs: Department credentials, Qualification records
Find Florida CWL Classes Near You
Browse verified instructors offering state-approved training in your area. Book online and get certified faster.
Renewal Information
How to renew your Florida concealed carry permit
Renewal Period
Every 7 years
Renewal Window
95 days before expiration
Renewal Fee
$105.00
Retraining
Not Required
Grace Period
Florida provides a 180 days after expiration (with $15 late fee) grace period after expiration. During this time, your permit is invalid for carry but can still be renewed without starting the application process over.
Renewal Steps
Apply for Renewal
Submit renewal application online or at a Tax Collector office starting 95 days before expiration.
Pay Renewal Fee
Pay the $45 renewal fee.
Complete Background Check
FDACS will conduct a new background check.
Receive Renewed CWL
New license mailed upon approval.
Renewal Fees
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
Renewal Fee (Resident) Reduced fee for renewals | $45.00 |
Late Renewal Fee If renewing within 180 days of expiration | $60.00 |
| Total Renewal Cost | $105.00 |
Late Renewal Penalties
- Renewal within 180 days after expiration: $15 late fee
- After 180 days: Must apply as new applicant
Renewal Tips
- Set calendar reminder 3 months before expiration
- Renew early to avoid gaps in reciprocity benefits
- Update address if you have moved
Fees & Costs
Complete breakdown of all fees for Florida concealed carry permits
Initial Application
Renewal Fees
Accepted Payment Methods
Important Fee Information
- • Schedule appointment at Tax Collector office for fastest service
- • Veterans should bring DD-214 for fee waivers and expedited processing
- • Check application status online regularly
- • Paper applications are no longer accepted
Why These Fees?
Florida Concealed Carry Laws
Important legal restrictions and regulations you must follow
Ignorance of the Law is Not a Defense
Violating concealed carry laws can result in criminal charges, loss of your permit, and inability to own firearms. Always verify current laws before carrying and consult with a firearms attorney for legal advice.
Pistol-Free Zones
Where you cannot carry in Florida
Important Notice
Carrying in prohibited locations is a serious offense. Always verify current laws and signage requirements. This information is for educational purposes and may not reflect the most recent changes.
Florida State Prohibited
Schools and School Buses
Any school, school bus, or school-sponsored activity
Signage required: No
Exceptions:
- - Firearm stored securely in vehicle
Police Stations
Any police, sheriff, or highway patrol station
Signage required: No
Jails and Prisons
Any detention facility, prison, or jail
Signage required: No
Courthouses
Courthouses and court facilities
Signage required: No
Polling Places
During voting hours on election day
Signage required: No
Government Meetings
Meetings of county, city, or municipal governing body, school board, or special district
Signage required: No
Bars and Portions of Establishments Serving Alcohol
Any portion of an establishment primarily devoted to serving alcohol
Signage required: No
Exceptions:
- - Restaurant seating areas are generally permitted
College/University Facilities
Career centers, college, or university facilities
Signage required: No
Exceptions:
- - Locked in vehicle in parking area
Athletic Events
Any professional, semi-professional, or collegiate athletic event not related to firearms
Signage required: No
Federal Prohibited
Post Offices
All U.S. Postal Service facilities
Federal Buildings
Federal courthouses, IRS offices, Social Security offices
Military Installations
Military bases (specific rules vary)
VA Facilities
Veterans Affairs hospitals and clinics
Notable Exceptions
Private Property
Property owners can allow carry on their premises
- - Must have permission from owner/manager
Penalties for Violations
Carrying in prohibited locations is a second-degree misdemeanor in most cases, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and $500 fine.
| Violation | Consequence | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Carrying in prohibited location | Second-degree misdemeanor, up to 60 days jail, $500 fine | misdemeanor |
| Carrying in school (without authorization) | Third-degree felony, up to 5 years imprisonment | felony |
Weapons Restrictions
Firearm and ammunition regulations in Florida
Magazine Capacity Limits
Florida has no state-level magazine capacity restrictions.
Ammunition Restrictions
Armor-Piercing Ammunition
Prohibited for use in handguns
Hollow Point Ammunition
Legal and commonly used for self-defense
Prohibited Firearm Types
Machine Guns
Fully automatic weapons require ATF registration
Exceptions:
- - Properly registered under NFA
Short-Barreled Rifles/Shotguns
Prohibited unless NFA registered
Exceptions:
- - Properly registered with ATF
Carrying Restrictions
Open Carry Prohibited
Florida prohibits open carry of firearms in most circumstances.
Penalty: Second-degree misdemeanor
Brief Exposure Exception
Brief, unintentional exposure of concealed firearm is not a violation.
Penalty: None if unintentional
Additional Notes
- Florida prohibits open carry except when hunting, fishing, camping, or at gun ranges
- Concealed means out of ordinary sight
- CWL covers multiple weapon types (handguns, electronic weapons, tear gas guns, etc.)
Carrying Under the Influence
Alcohol and substance laws while carrying in Florida
Legal BAC Limit While Carrying
Zero Tolerance
Florida law prohibits using a firearm while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. There is no specific BAC limit, but any impairment is prohibited.
Carrying in Bars/Restaurants
Prohibited
- - Cannot carry in portion of establishment primarily devoted to alcohol service
Restrictions When Carrying in Bars/Restaurants
- Restaurant dining areas generally okay if not primarily a bar
- Cannot consume alcohol while carrying
Penalties for Violations
| Violation | Consequence | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Using firearm while intoxicated | Second-degree misdemeanor, potential CWL revocation | misdemeanor |
Related Laws
Florida Statute 790.151
Using firearm while under influence of alcohol or controlled substance
Citation: F.S. 790.151
Best Practices
- Do not carry in any establishment that primarily serves alcohol
- If you plan to drink, leave your firearm secured elsewhere
- Impairment of any kind while carrying is a violation
Need Legal Advice?
These laws are complex and subject to change. For specific legal questions about your situation, consult with a qualified firearms attorney in Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Florida concealed carry permits and laws
carry
No, since July 2023, Florida allows permitless concealed carry for anyone 21 and older who can legally possess a firearm. However, a CWL provides benefits including reciprocity with other states.
No, open carry is prohibited in Florida except when hunting, fishing, camping, target shooting, or traveling to/from these activities.
training
Florida accepts hunter education courses, NRA courses, military service (DD-214), law enforcement training, or other approved firearms safety courses.
application
Yes, Florida issues CWLs to non-residents who meet all requirements. Non-resident permits are popular due to Florida's wide reciprocity.
Still have questions?
Contact your local issuing authority or consult with a qualified firearms attorney for specific legal advice.
Application Process
How to submit your Florida concealed carry permit application
Where to Apply
Tax Collector Office
Most Florida Tax Collector offices process CWL applications in person.
Search "Tax Collector CWL [your county]"
FDACS Regional Office
Florida Department of Agriculture regional offices accept applications.
Visit fdacs.gov for locations
Online Application
Complete portions of the application online, but fingerprinting requires in-person visit.
Visit fdacs.gov/Consumer-Resources/Concealed-Weapon-License
Required Documents Checklist
Proof of Firearms Competency
Training certificate, DD-214, or other qualifying documentation
How to obtain: Complete approved training or provide military documentation
Valid Photo ID
Florida driver's license, state ID, or passport
How to obtain: Florida DMV or passport office
Proof of Citizenship/Residency
Birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card
How to obtain: Vital records office or USCIS
Application Fees
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
Initial Application Fee (Resident) Includes fingerprinting and background check | $97.00 |
Initial Application Fee (Non-Resident) Same fee for non-residents | $97.00 |
| Estimated Total | $194.00 |
Processing Timeframes
Standard Processing
50-90 days
May take longer during busy periods
Military Expedited
30 days
Active duty and veterans receive priority processing
Pro Tips for a Smooth Application
- Schedule appointment at Tax Collector office for fastest service
- Veterans should bring DD-214 for fee waivers and expedited processing
- Check application status online regularly
- Paper applications are no longer accepted
Reciprocity
Where your Florida permit is valid
36
States honor your FL permit
35
States' permits honored in FL
Reciprocity Type
full
States That Honor Your FL Permit
Your FL Permit Is Valid In:
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
Colorado
Delaware
Georgia
Idaho
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Michigan
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Mexico
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Virginia
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
FL Honors Permits From:
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
Colorado
Delaware
Georgia
Idaho
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Michigan
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Mexico
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Virginia
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Important Reciprocity Notes
- Florida is a permitless carry state since July 2023
- CWL provides reciprocity benefits when traveling
- Florida CWL is one of the most widely recognized permits
- Open carry is still prohibited in Florida
- Always verify current reciprocity before traveling
Reciprocity information last verified: January 2025. Always verify current laws before traveling with your firearm.
Additional Resources
Official links and contacts for Florida
Government Resources
Contact Information
FDACS Division of Licensing
Concealed Weapon Licensing
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Links
Find Florida CCW Training Near You
Browse verified instructors offering state-approved training in your area. Book online, complete your training, and get one step closer to your concealed carry permit.