How to Renew a Florida Concealed Weapons Permit
Renewing a Florida concealed weapons permit is a crucial process for gun owners to maintain their right to carry a concealed weapon. As a responsible gun owner, it’s essential to understand the requirements and procedures to renew your permit. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to renew your Florida concealed weapons permit.
Step 1: Check Your Renewal Date
Contents
**Check Your Permit’s Expiration Date**
Before renewing your permit, it’s essential to check your permit’s expiration date. You can check the expiration date on your current permit or by contacting the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS).
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
**Required Documents**
To renew your Florida concealed weapons permit, you’ll need to provide the following documents:
- A completed Application for Renewal of Concealed Weapons or Firearm License (Form 790.021)
- Two recent, color photographs
- Proof of Florida residency
- Proof of completion of a firearms training course, if required (more on this below)
Step 3: Take a Firearms Training Course (If Required)
**Firearms Training Course Requirement**
In 2011, Florida implemented a requirement for concealed weapons permit holders to complete a firearms training course every 5 years to maintain their permit. This requirement applies to permit holders who obtained their permit on or after July 1, 2008. If you obtained your permit before this date, you are exempt from this requirement.
Who is Exempt from the Firearms Training Course Requirement?
- Permit holders who obtained their permit before July 1, 2008
- Active-duty military personnel
- Peace officers
- Retired law enforcement officers
- Concealed weapons permit holders who are 65 years or older
What are the Requirements for a Firearms Training Course?
- The course must be approved by the FDACS
- The course must cover at least 4 hours of instruction
- The course must include topics such as:
- Laws regarding firearms and concealed carry
- Safe handling and storage of firearms
- Marksmanship and firearms safety
Step 4: Submit Your Application and Documents
**Submitting Your Application and Documents**
Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can submit your application and documents to the FDACS. You can submit your application and documents:
- Online: You can submit your application and documents online through the FDACS website
- In Person: You can submit your application and documents in person at a FDACS office
- By Mail: You can submit your application and documents by mail to the FDACS office
What are the Fees for Renewing a Florida Concealed Weapons Permit?
- The application fee is $70
- The late renewal fee is $15
Step 5: Wait for Your New Permit
**Processing Time and Receipt of Your New Permit**
Once you have submitted your application and documents, the FDACS will process your renewal application. The processing time may vary, but typically takes 30-60 days. Once your new permit is processed, you will receive a new permit by mail.
Renewal Tips and Reminders
- Make sure to renew your permit on time to avoid late fees and penalties.
- Keep a copy of your permit and receipts for your records.
- Check your permit’s expiration date to avoid missing the renewal deadline.
- Take the firearms training course to ensure you meet the renewal requirements.
Conclusion
Renewing a Florida concealed weapons permit is a straightforward process. By following these steps, you can ensure that your permit is renewed on time and that you meet the requirements for continued concealed carry privileges. Remember to check your permit’s expiration date, gather the required documents, take a firearms training course (if required), submit your application and documents, and wait for your new permit to be processed.
