Can I Carry a Gun in My Car Florida?
Florida is a "shall-issue" state when it comes to carrying firearms, which means that a person can carry a concealed weapon if they are properly licensed and meet the eligibility requirements. However, the question remains: Can you carry a gun in your car in Florida? In this article, we’ll break down the rules and regulations surrounding gun carry laws in Florida, and answer this question in-depth.
Florida’s Concealed Carry Laws
To understand the rules surrounding gun carry in Florida, it’s essential to understand the state’s concealed carry laws. According to Florida Statute 790.06, a person can carry a concealed weapon if they meet the following requirements:
• Age: You must be at least 21 years old to carry a concealed weapon.
• Residency: You must be a resident of the state of Florida to obtain a concealed carry license.
• Background Check: You must undergo a background check to ensure you are eligible to carry a firearm.
• Training: You must complete a firearms safety training course approved by the state.
Carrying a Gun in Your Car
Now that we’ve established the requirements for concealed carry in Florida, let’s address the question at hand: Can you carry a gun in your car? The answer is a little more complicated than a simple "yes" or "no".
Types of Firearms
In Florida, there are two types of firearms: long guns and handguns. Long guns include rifles and shotguns, while handguns include pistols and revolvers.
• Long Guns: Long guns can be carried openly in a vehicle, provided the owner has a valid Concealed Weapon or Firearm License (CWFL) and is not violating any other laws.
• Handguns: Handguns, on the other hand, are subject to Florida’s concealed carry laws and can only be carried if you have a valid CWFL and meet the requirements mentioned earlier.
Permissible Places to Carry
Under Florida law, there are permissible places to carry where you are legally allowed to carry a gun, including:
• Your own property: You can carry a gun on your own property, such as your home or a boat.
• Motor vehicle: You can carry a gun in a motor vehicle, provided you are transporting it in a concealed manner (e.g. in a glove compartment, under a seat, or in a locked container).
However, there are locations where carrying a gun is prohibited, including:
• School zones: Firearms are prohibited within 1,000 feet of any school, school bus stop, or school bus operating route.
• Sports stadiums: Firearms are prohibited within 1,500 feet of any sports stadium or arena.
• Airports: Firearms are prohibited within airport security zones.
• Hospitals: Firearms are prohibited within hospitals, excluding some exceptions for law enforcement.
Exceptions and Provisions
There are certain exceptions and provisions to be aware of when carrying a gun in your car:
• Locked containers: Firearms can be carried in a locked container or holster inside a motor vehicle.
• Transportation of unloaded firearms: Firearms can be transported unloaded and in a wrapped package or container within a motor vehicle.
• Hunting and outdoor recreation: Firearms can be carried while hunting or participating in outdoor recreational activities, such as fishing or boating.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
It’s essential to remember that carrying a gun without a valid CWFL or in violation of other Florida laws can result in serious penalties, including:
• Misdemeanor charges: A second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500.
• Felony charges: A third-degree felony, punishable by up to 5 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
• Loss of license: Failure to comply with concealed carry laws can result in the revocation of your CWFL.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the answer to the question "Can I carry a gun in my car Florida?" is a bit more complex than a simple "yes" or "no". While long guns can be carried openly in a vehicle, handguns are subject to Florida’s concealed carry laws and can only be carried if you have a valid CWFL and meet the requirements mentioned earlier.
By understanding the types of firearms, permissible places to carry, and exceptions and provisions, you can ensure you are in compliance with Florida’s gun laws. Remember, carrying a gun without a valid CWFL or in violation of other laws can result in serious penalties. Always prioritize your safety and the safety of those around you by exercising caution and responsibility when it comes to firearms.
