Concealed Weapon and Firearm License
Obtaining a Florida Concealed Weapon and Firearm License enables you to carry a concealed weapon on your person in the state of Florida. A Florida permit is also recognized in many other states through reciprocity agreements. Florida is a " shall-issue" state. The state has no discretion in awarding the permit and may not discriminate providing you meet the requirements as specified in the law. To be eligible to receive a permit, you must meet the minimum age, legal and resident requirements, complete an application and have your picture and fingerprints on file.
Eligibility To obtain a CW permit in Florida, you must be at least 21 years of age and must demonstrate competency with a firearm. To qualify you must complete a state-approved course involving the safe use of firearms. See the "Education" tab for more information on classes. An applicant must be a United States citizen or permanent resident alien. Residency may be proved with a document such as a bank or credit card statement, utility bill or other appropriate document that shows your name and a Florida address.
Disqualifications A convicted felon cannot obtain a CW permit unless your civil firearm rights have been restored by the court. Conviction of a misdemeanor involving violence within the past three years, also disqualifies you from possessing a CW permit. Two or more DUI convictions in the past three years or a confirmed record of substance abuse also precludes you from obtaining a CW permit. Individuals who have been dishonorably discharged from the U.S. military or have renounced their U.S. citizenship are not be eligible.
Permit Details Since 2008, a Florida concealed weapons permit is valid for seven years and can be renewed within six months of its expiration. If allowed to expire, you must reapply and execute the steps that are in effect at that time. A concealed weapon permit allows you to carry in the state of Florida, as well as other reciprocal states. Currently Florida has the second widest reciprocity following Missouri. According to the law, you must not be in possession of a concealed weapon at a police station, courthouse, school or at the airport.
Where to Go The easiest way to apply for your CWFL is:
For more information:
Eligibility To obtain a CW permit in Florida, you must be at least 21 years of age and must demonstrate competency with a firearm. To qualify you must complete a state-approved course involving the safe use of firearms. See the "Education" tab for more information on classes. An applicant must be a United States citizen or permanent resident alien. Residency may be proved with a document such as a bank or credit card statement, utility bill or other appropriate document that shows your name and a Florida address.
Disqualifications A convicted felon cannot obtain a CW permit unless your civil firearm rights have been restored by the court. Conviction of a misdemeanor involving violence within the past three years, also disqualifies you from possessing a CW permit. Two or more DUI convictions in the past three years or a confirmed record of substance abuse also precludes you from obtaining a CW permit. Individuals who have been dishonorably discharged from the U.S. military or have renounced their U.S. citizenship are not be eligible.
Permit Details Since 2008, a Florida concealed weapons permit is valid for seven years and can be renewed within six months of its expiration. If allowed to expire, you must reapply and execute the steps that are in effect at that time. A concealed weapon permit allows you to carry in the state of Florida, as well as other reciprocal states. Currently Florida has the second widest reciprocity following Missouri. According to the law, you must not be in possession of a concealed weapon at a police station, courthouse, school or at the airport.
Where to Go The easiest way to apply for your CWFL is:
- Apply for your CWFL is go to either the Ocala City Hall, or the new Sumter Tax Collector's office at 7375 Powell Rd., #136, 352-689-4540. They do everything on the spot and send your application and everything electronically. You get your permit more quickly that way.
- The Ocala is walk-in, no appointment necessary, just a longer driveGo to either the Ocala City Hall, or the new Sumter Tax Collector's office by appointment only, at 7375 Powell Rd., #136, 352-689-4645. They do everything on the spot and send your application and everything electronically. You get your permit more quickly that way. The Ocala is walk-in, no appointment necessary, just a longer drive. Click HERE to see Ocala City Hall Concealed Weapons License Applications & Renewals webpage.
For more information:
A "must read" for all Florida concealed permit holders is: Florida Firearms Law, Use & Ownership, 7th Edition [Paperback] Esq. Jon H. Gutmacher (Author) The book is available at Amazon for $24.55.