Concealed Carry Permit license in Florida is issued by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (DACS). DACS must approve a Concealed Carry Permit application before it can be approved. Depending on the county, permits are valid for up to seven years, meaning that individuals may carry their firearms with them in public places as long as they do not violate any Florida laws.
Permits issued by DACS serve as a form of identification that indicates an individual is authorized to carry a concealed weapon in the state of Florida. Permits are one of the most responsible forms of firearm ownership and are an important part of protecting yourself, your family, and others, and provide individuals with the ability to legally carry a concealed weapon while still following all applicable laws.
How Does a Florida Resident Apply for a Florida Concealed Weapon License?
Before you apply review Section 790.06, Florida Statutes, to learn more about the law of Florida’s concealed weapon license program, and determine if you are eligible for a license. Concealed Carry Permits are not issued without a background check and approval from the state of Florida, so it is important for holders to always remain knowledgeable about applicable laws and follow safe gun handling practices at all times.
The license may be issued to persons over the age of 21 who take and pass an approved firearms safety course that includes live-fire training. You can apply in person or by mail, though the concealed carry application form, as well as the general process, is similar. Permit holders must follow all state and federal laws regarding firearm ownership and use, including where he or they can legally carry a concealed weapon.
Possible Reasons for Ineligibility
- Conviction of a felony or other crimes that result in the loss of your right to bear arms
- Addicted to any narcotic drug
- Committed to a mental institution or adjudicated mentally incompetent within the past 5 years
- Dishonorably discharged from the Armed Forces
- Under indictment for, or charged with, a crime that carries the penalty of more than one-year imprisonment
- Subject to any restraining or protection order
- A conviction for domestic violence offense within the past 3 years
- Have been adjudicated guilty of or entered a plea of nolo contendere to misdemeanor crimes involving violence within the past three (3) years
- Have been convicted of a violation of the provisions of Florida Statutes relating to firearms, ammunition, or weapons within the past three (3) years
- Not a resident of the State of Florida
- Unable to demonstrate competence with a pistol by completing an approved training course.
Concealed Carry Permits Linse is an important and responsible way for individuals to protect themselves while adhering to Florida law. With Concealed Carry Permits, individuals can ensure that they are protected and ready to take action in the event of a dangerous situation.
Carrying a Concealed Weapon Without a Permit
Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit is illegal in Florida and can result in serious legal consequences. If you are carrying a concealed gun without a license, you might face criminal charges that could result in imprisonment and stiff fines. However, there are some lawful situations when you can carry a gun without this permit. Some of these situations include:
- Having the gun in your home or place of business
- Being engaged or returning from hunting, fishing, camping
- Firing a weapon for testing or target practice under safe conditions
- Traveling in private transport with the gun securely encased
- Carrying an unloaded gun from the place of purchase to your home or business
- Being an investigator employed by the public defenders of the state
- Being part of law enforcement
- Working in a lawful business that deals, manufactures, services, or repairs guns
However, it is strongly recommended that holders always practice sound firearms safety measures. Concealed Carry Permit holders are also expected to know and adhere to all applicable state and federal laws regarding firearms ownership, transport, and use.
What Places Are Off-limits When Carrying a Concealed Weapon in Florida?
Although Concealed Carry Permit holders can legally carry a concealed weapon in most places, certain locations and events remain off-limits. Permits do not provide the right to possess or carry a firearm in schools, college campuses, airports, courthouses, police stations, prisons, jails, polling places, bars, or any establishment primarily devoted to the sale of alcoholic beverages.
Permits also do not allow Concealed Weapon holders to possess firearms in any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law. Holders must always be aware of their surroundings and adhere to all applicable laws wherever they go, and must also ensure that their Concealed Weapon is properly secured and kept away from children at all times.
Concealed Carry Penalties in Florida
Concealed Carry Permit holders can face criminal and civil penalties for violations of Concealed Weapon laws. So, if arrested, a person can face a first-degree misdemeanor or a third-degree felony depending on the type of weapon involved in the offense. Holders must always follow all applicable laws including those relating to Concealed Weapons, firearms, ammunition, weapons, and other related items. Violations of Concealed Weapon laws may include but are not limited to:
- Concealed Weapon possession without a permit license
- Carrying a Concealed Weapon in restricted areas or using a Concealed Weapon in the commission of a crime
Holders must always stay informed and aware of applicable Concealed Weapon laws and regulations to avoid the potential for criminal and civil penalties.
Conclusion
Concealed Carry Permits License serves as a deterrent against criminals who may otherwise target individuals or groups carrying firearms, and help ensure that individuals with firearms are properly trained, licensed, and responsible. Holders must always practice safe gun handling to ensure the safety of all those around them. Concealed Carry Permits remain a valuable asset for those who wish to protect themselves, their family, and other Florida residents; however, holders must always practice responsibility and stay up-to-date on the most recent Concealed Carry laws.