Can I have a gun in my car in Florida?
Whether you’re a law enforcement officer, a gun collector, or just a legal gun owner in Florida, it’s natural to question whether you’re allowed to have a gun in your car. As with anything related to gun laws, the answer can be somewhat complex. So, can you have a gun in your car in Florida?
The Answer: Not Always
Before we delve into the nuances of Floridian gun laws, we need to start with a straightforward answer. Under Florida law, it’s legal to possess a handgun in a private vehicle on public roads, but certain conditions apply.
While it’s technically legal, there are scenarios where your right to keep a firearm in your vehicle may be restricted or denied. If you’re carrying a concealed weapon, you’re only allowed to do so while driving a vehicle on a public road. However, once you stop your car, get out, or engage in any activity not directly connected to driving (e.g., walking to a rest stop), the gun law rules change. Non-concealed firearms still require a specific license in Florida.
Requirements for Concealed Weapons Carry
If you plan on carrying a concealed weapon, you’re required to possess a proper license issued by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). Key requirements include:
- Being at least 21 years old
- Being a Florida resident
- Paying for the license and fees, which vary by county but typically range between $43 and $55
- Passing a firearm safety course
- Showing proof of identity, residency, and citizenship/green card
- For additional requirements refer to Flor
ida Statute 790.06 (3).
- For additional requirements refer to Flor
Transporting vs. Carrying: Are You Clearing Up Common Confusion?
Under Florida law, there is a significant distinction between transporting and carrying a concealed weapon:
- Transportation: When keeping a registered firearm in a private, locked vehicle in Florida, solely for the purpose of transportation.
- Carrying: When actively moving a firearms with the intent to hunt, engage in self-defense, or show the presence of the gun.
There’s no exemption for guns in your vehicle during long trips or stops at food establishments, museums, festivals, or places of sports events. Only in extremely rare circumstances is there ever a valid defense to have a firearm near an elementary, middle, or K-12 high school with a clear absence of public notice or without permission under Florida Statute 790.06 (20).
Do You Want to Carry It in Trunk? Think Twice.
When asked if owning a gun in your trunk can be the best way, there should be no assumption it saves you from responsibility. Storing your gun temporarily in the trunk won’t bypass the legal responsibilities and permissions associated with owning any firearm. Here’s important information:
When transporting, firearms should ideally be:
- Carried in the glovebox, console compartment, on the seat between the active driver and seatback opposite the driver.
The trunk should only serve as a repository but not as your sole transport storage. However, before using your trunk as storage for firearms remember that:
For your protection:
Please consult with licensed attorney practicing in your respective state legal matters, specifically related.
- Carried in the glovebox, console compartment, on the seat between the active driver and seatback opposite the driver.
Penalties and Compliance Issues: Staying in Alignment
Florida carries stiff punishment for gun-law violations as follows:
First offense – Fine = $1,000 minimum; Jail Term = Less than 3 years + possible court-assigned imprisonment.
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**How to legally transport and possess firearms are crucial in any gun collection or gun storage, if you want
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