How do I get a Concealed Weapons Permit in Florida?
Florida is one of the most gun-friendly states in the country, with a relatively easy process for obtaining a concealed weapons permit. If you’re a resident of Florida and want to carry a concealed weapon, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for a concealed weapons permit, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be a resident of Florida
- Be at least 21 years old (18 years old for active-duty military personnel)
- Be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident alien who is lawfully admitted to the United States
- Not be a fugitive from justice
- Not be under indictment for a felony
- Not have been convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence
- Not have been adjudicated mentally defective or have been committed to a mental institution
- Not be addicted to the use of narcotics
Application Process
To apply for a concealed weapons permit in Florida, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Gather Required Documents: You’ll need to provide the following documents:
- A completed application form (available online or at your local sheriff’s office)
- A photocopy of your Florida driver’s license or ID card
- A photocopy of your birth certificate
- A photocopy of your social security card
- A letter from your doctor stating that you are not addicted to the use of narcotics (if applicable)
- Take the Required Course: You’ll need to complete a firearms safety course approved by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. This course will cover topics such as:
- Firearms safety and handling
- Firearms laws and regulations
- Self-defense techniques
- Submit Your Application: Once you’ve completed the course, you’ll need to submit your application and supporting documents to your local sheriff’s office. You can usually do this in person or by mail.
- Pay the Application Fee: The application fee for a concealed weapons permit in Florida is currently $60.
Required Course Information
Here are some important details to keep in mind when taking the required firearms safety course:
- Course Length: The course is typically 4-6 hours long and covers the topics mentioned above.
- Course Content: The course will cover firearms safety and handling, as well as self-defense techniques.
- Course Providers: There are many course providers in Florida, including shooting ranges, gun stores, and firearms training schools. Make sure to choose a provider that is approved by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
- Course Completion Certificate: You’ll need to provide a completion certificate from the course provider as part of your application.
Fingerprinting
As part of the application process, you’ll need to submit your fingerprints to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. You can usually do this at your local sheriff’s office or at a fingerprinting location approved by the department.
Background Check
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement will conduct a background check on you as part of the application process. This check will review your criminal history and ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements for a concealed weapons permit.
Permit Issuance
If your application is approved, you’ll receive a concealed weapons permit from your local sheriff’s office. The permit will be valid for 7 years and can be renewed by submitting a renewal application and paying the renewal fee.
Important Notes
Here are some important notes to keep in mind when applying for a concealed weapons permit in Florida:
- Residency Requirement: You must be a resident of Florida to apply for a concealed weapons permit.
- Felony Convictions: If you’ve been convicted of a felony, you may not be eligible for a concealed weapons permit.
- Mental Health: If you’ve been adjudicated mentally defective or have been committed to a mental institution, you may not be eligible for a concealed weapons permit.
- Narcotics: If you’re addicted to the use of narcotics, you may not be eligible for a concealed weapons permit.
Table: Concealed Weapons Permit Application Requirements
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Age | 21 years old (18 years old for active-duty military personnel) |
| Residency | Must be a resident of Florida |
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien |
| Background Check | Must pass a background check conducted by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement |
| Fingerprints | Must submit fingerprints as part of the application process |
| Course Completion | Must complete a firearms safety course approved by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services |
| Application Fee | Must pay a $60 application fee |
Conclusion
Obtaining a concealed weapons permit in Florida is a relatively straightforward process, but it’s important to make sure you meet the eligibility requirements and follow the application process carefully. By following these steps and providing the required documentation, you can successfully apply for a concealed weapons permit and carry a concealed weapon in Florida.
