Gun Laws in Florida
Gun Friendliness Score
How We Calculate Gun Friendliness Scores
The Gun Friendliness Score ranges from 0 to 100 and represents how favorable a state's laws are toward gun ownership and use. We evaluate each state across 50 key gun policies, assigning points based on how these policies affect gun owners:
- Policies that support gun rights, reduce restrictions, or expand legal protections for gun owners receive positive points
- Policies that restrict firearm ownership, limit purchase options, or add regulatory burdens receive negative points
Florida's high score of 89 reflects the state's constitutional carry laws, strong stand your ground protections, preemption of local regulations, and minimal restrictions on firearm types.
Florida Gun Laws Summary
Florida is known for its gun-friendly laws and strong support of Second Amendment rights. The state has enacted comprehensive legislation that generally favors firearms ownership and use, with minimal restrictions beyond federal requirements.
Florida is a shall-issue state for concealed weapons permits, which are administered at the state level by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Qualified applicants who meet all statutory requirements are guaranteed to receive a permit, with no discretionary denial from licensing authorities.
As of July 1, 2023, Florida became a constitutional carry state when Governor Ron DeSantis signed HB 543 into law. This legislation allows any law-abiding resident or citizen who is at least 18 years old and legally permitted to possess a firearm to carry a concealed handgun without a permit. While permits are no longer required to carry, the state continues to issue them for those who want reciprocity benefits when traveling to other states.
Permitting, Sales and Transfers
No permit is required to purchase firearms or ammunition in Florida. Background checks are conducted for all firearm purchases from licensed dealers (FFLs) through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), which serves as a point of contact for the federal NICS system.
Private sales between individuals do not require background checks or paperwork. There is a three-day waiting period for handgun purchases from licensed dealers, though this waiting period does not apply to those with concealed carry permits or to private sales. There is no state registration of firearms in Florida.
Firearms in Public and in the Home
Florida is a constitutional carry state. A permit is not required for carrying a concealed firearm for residents and non-residents 18 years of age or older who can legally possess firearms. Florida honors concealed carry permits from all states that recognize Florida's permits. The state has a strong "stand your ground" law, which removes the duty to retreat before using force in self-defense.
Open carry is generally prohibited in Florida with exceptions for hunting, fishing, camping, target shooting, or when going to and from these activities. For those who choose to obtain a concealed weapons permit, applicants must demonstrate competency with a firearm through completion of a firearms safety course or other qualifying experience, such as military service. The permit application process requires fingerprinting, a background check, and proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful residency.
Firearm, Feature and Accessory Bans
Florida does not ban so-called "assault weapons" or impose restrictions on magazine capacity at the state level. All firearms that are legal under federal law are legal to own in Florida, provided the owner is not prohibited from possessing firearms. NFA items such as suppressors, short-barreled rifles, and machine guns are legal to own with proper federal registration and tax stamps.
Local Laws
Florida has strong state preemption laws that prohibit local governments from regulating firearms and ammunition. Counties, cities, and municipalities cannot enact or enforce local ordinances that would restrict firearms more strictly than state law. Local officials who violate preemption can face personal penalties, including removal from office and fines.
2025 Gun Law Checklist
Florida Gun Policy Profile: 50 Key Legislative Points
Purchasing and Sales Regulations
Background Check for Any Firearm Sale
State requires any firearm sale to go through a licensed dealer (FFL) and be subject to a background check. (Federal law requires those "engaged in the business" of buying/selling firearms to perform a background check during a sale). A private sale or transfer of any firearm between individuals (non-family members) must be also conducted through an FFL.
Background Check for Any Handgun Sale (Including Private Sales)
All handgun sales and most transfers are subject to a background check. Private sales of handguns between individuals (non-family members) must be conducted through an FFL.
Background Check Extensions
State will halt the transfer of a firearm if a background check is delayed. Some states will halt the process indefinitely, some for a set amount of time.
Failed Background Check Reported to Law Enforcement
The firearm dealer (or state agency conducting the background check) has a responsibility to notify local law enforcement of a failed background check.
Must be 21 or Older to Purchase
Most firearms–including rifles, shotguns, and handguns–cannot be sold to anyone under the age of 21. (Federal laws permit long guns to be sold to those over the age of 18.)
Permit to Purchase
State requires a permit (single-use or renewable) for all firearms or specifically for handguns. States typically charge a fee for the permit and a background check is performed during the application.
Mandatory Waiting Periods
Florida has a mandatory three-day waiting period for handgun purchases from licensed dealers, though this does not apply to those with concealed carry permits or to private sales. There is no waiting period for rifles and shotguns.
State Licenses All Gun Dealers
State has a licensing system for firearms merchants above and beyond the federal (FFL) system.
Purchase Rejected for Public Safety Reasons
State officials able to block sales of firearms if the purchaser is deemed to be a threat to themselves or to public safety (according to the judgment of the official)
Approved Handgun Roster
State controls what make and model handguns are sold; according to their own criteria. Often, this involves a "roster" of approved handguns with the right "safety" features, such as a loaded chamber indicator, or even the amount of metal in the firearm (Maryland). Often, LE are exempt from these requirements.
Strict Unfinished Frames and Receivers Laws
State sets a lower threshold for unfinished frames and receivers (beyond ATF rule 2021R-05F). Includes ban on 3D-printing of these parts in some states.
Ownership and Registration Requirements
Permit to Possess
Several states require a permit just to possess: a handgun (New York); any firearms or ammunition (Illinois).
State Firearm or Handgun Registry
State keeps a record of every firearm or handgun sold. Includes states with a permit to purchase and states that keep records of purchases.
Mandatory Firearms Training
Florida requires firearms training for concealed carry permit applicants, though not for simple possession or purchase. Applicants must demonstrate competency with a firearm through completing a firearms safety course, hunter education course, or providing evidence of military service.
Secure Storage Requirement
Gun owners must lock up firearms in the home (or anywhere else a minor or prohibited person may have access).
Magazine Capacity Limits
State limits magazine capacity for some or all firearms.
"Assault Weapons" Ban
Magazine fed, semi-automatic, centerfire rifles cannot have other "features" (pistol grip, flash hider, etc.) or they are considered "assault weapons." New guns cannot be registered as "assault weapons." Possession is prohibited with limited exceptions.
Microstamping Law
State has a law banning the sale of a new pistol unless its firing can imprint its serial number somewhere on the cartridge case during firing. This technology is make-believe at present, but these laws will effectively ban the sale of new handguns in the state if/when they become effective
Penalties for Not Reporting a Lost or Stolen Firearm
Gun owners must report the loss or theft of firearms–usually within several days of the incident or first discovering the loss–or potentially face a criminal penalty.
Carry and Location Restrictions
Mandatory Permit for Concealed Carry
State requires a permit to carry a concealed pistol. This includes all states that "may issue" a permit (where officials may deny a permit for subjective reasons).
Officials Can Deny Carry Permit
State allows the carry permit officials to deny an application based on the state's own criteria.
Open Carry Limited or Banned
Florida generally prohibits open carry with limited exceptions for hunting, fishing, camping, target shooting, or when going to and from these activities. Even with constitutional carry in effect, open carry remains restricted in most situations.
No Carry Mandate for College Campuses
Florida law allows individuals with concealed carry permits to keep firearms in vehicles on college campuses, but prohibits carrying on campus grounds, facilities, or dormitories.
Gun Ban on Most Public Property
Firearms are prohibited in government buildings, courthouses, polling places, legislative meetings, school facilities, airport terminals, and athletic events. These restrictions apply even to those with concealed carry permits.
Guns Banned in Bars
Florida prohibits carrying firearms in establishments primarily devoted to serving alcoholic beverages. Carrying is allowed in restaurants that serve alcohol as long as the primary business is food service.
No Guns in K-12 Schools
Firearms are prohibited in K-12 schools and at school-sponsored events. Exceptions exist for law enforcement and for participants in approved school programs. Under the Guardian Program, some school staff may be authorized to carry firearms after extensive training.
Does Not Recognize Other States' Carry Permits
Florida recognizes concealed carry permits from all states that recognize Florida's permits, maintaining reciprocity with approximately 36 states.
Prohibited Persons and Possession Restrictions
Felons are Also Prohibited Persons at State Level
Florida law explicitly prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms or ammunition. This mirrors federal law but allows state-level prosecution. In Florida, a felon's civil rights, including firearm rights, can only be restored through clemency from the governor and Cabinet.
Fugitives are Also Prohibited Persons at State Level
Florida law prohibits fugitives from justice from possessing firearms or ammunition, reinforcing the federal prohibition at the state level.
Involuntarily Committed are Also Prohibited Persons at State Level
Florida prohibits firearm ownership for individuals who have been adjudicated mentally defective or who have been committed to a mental institution. The state reports these records to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the FBI for inclusion in background check databases.
Violent Offenders Cannot Possess
Florida prohibits firearm possession for individuals convicted of certain violent misdemeanors. This includes offenses like assault, battery, stalking, and certain domestic violence offenses even when classified as misdemeanors.
Domestic Violence Offenders Also Prohibited Persons at State Level
Florida law prohibits those convicted of domestic violence misdemeanors from possessing firearms. This state law reinforces the federal prohibition and allows state-level enforcement.
Stalkers are Prohibited Persons at the State Level
Florida prohibits firearms possession by persons convicted of stalking offenses, including misdemeanor stalking. Aggravated stalking is classified as a felony in Florida, which automatically prohibits firearm possession.
Intervention and Seizure Provisions
Red Flag Law
Florida enacted a "risk protection order" law in 2018 following the Parkland shooting. Law enforcement can petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from individuals who present a significant danger to themselves or others. After a hearing, orders can be issued for up to one year.
Emergency Gun Seizure Before Restraining Orders
Florida law allows for the temporary removal of firearms during domestic violence situations before a final restraining order is issued. When a temporary order is granted, the respondent typically must surrender firearms to law enforcement.
Guns Seized for Hate Crimes
State will take away all firearms from an individual in response to a misdemeanor hate crime conviction.
Guns Seized After Becoming Prohibited
State will quickly respond when an individual's status changes to prohibited and take away all firearms belonging to that person.
Guns Seized After Domestic Violence Conviction
Florida law requires the surrender of firearms after a domestic violence conviction. Those convicted of domestic violence misdemeanors must surrender their firearms to law enforcement and are prohibited from future possession.
Guns Seized Amid Restraining Orders
When a final domestic violence restraining order is issued in Florida, the respondent must surrender all firearms and ammunition to law enforcement for the duration of the order. The court typically issues specific instructions for surrendering weapons.
No Stand Your Ground Law
Florida has one of the strongest Stand Your Ground laws in the nation, enacted in 2005. There is no duty to retreat before using deadly force if the person reasonably believes they face an imminent threat of death or great bodily harm.
Monitoring and Threat Assessment
Mental Health Database
Florida maintains and regularly updates a database of individuals who have been involuntarily committed under the Baker Act or adjudicated mentally defective. This information is reported to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and shared with the FBI for NICS background checks.
School Officials Conduct Threat Assessments
Following the Parkland shooting, Florida enacted the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act, which requires threat assessment teams in all public schools. These teams identify and respond to students exhibiting behavior that may pose a threat to school safety.
Mandatory Tracing of "Crime Guns"
Law enforcement must use either a state system or the federal firearm tracing system to research any firearm recovered from a crime scene or used in a crime.
Law Enforcement Oversight and Accountability
No LE Officers Bill of Rights
Florida has a Law Enforcement Officers' Bill of Rights codified in state law that provides procedural protections for officers under investigation for misconduct. These protections include notification of the nature of the investigation, the right to review evidence, and time limits on investigations.
Heavy Restrictions on LE Use of Deadly Force
Florida follows traditional standards for police use of force. Officers may use deadly force when they reasonably believe there is an imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm to themselves or others, or when apprehending a fleeing felon who poses a significant threat.
Reports for LE Deadly Force Incidents
Florida requires law enforcement agencies to report officer-involved shootings resulting in death or serious injury to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. These reports must be filed within specific timeframes and include detailed information about the incident.
No Qualified Immunity Defense Laws
Florida recognizes qualified immunity for law enforcement officers as a defense in civil rights lawsuits. The state has not enacted any laws limiting or abolishing this doctrine, maintaining traditional protections for officers acting within the scope of their duties.
Prevention and Support Programs
Dedicated Office of Gun Violence Prevention
Following the 2018 Parkland shooting, Florida established the Office of Safe Schools within the Department of Education, which works to prevent various forms of school violence, including gun violence. The state also funds various violence prevention initiatives through the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act.
Funding for Services of Victims of Gun Violence
Florida's Bureau of Victim Compensation administers funds to assist victims of violent crimes, including gun violence. The state also established the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Victims' Fund after the Parkland shooting to provide additional support for victims and their families.
Local Control
Counties / Cities / Towns Can Pass Stricter Gun Laws
Florida has one of the strongest preemption laws in the country, prohibiting local governments from regulating firearms in any way. The state's preemption law includes personal penalties for local officials who attempt to enact or enforce local gun regulations, including removal from office and fines. In 2011, Florida strengthened these provisions by authorizing civil fines up to $5,000 against elected officials who knowingly violate the preemption statute.
Conclusion
Florida is somewhat of a mixed bag when it comes to the permissiveness of its firearms laws. On one hand, Florida recently became a Constitutional Carry state, meaning that no permit is required to concealed carry a firearm in the state. There are also prohibitions on gun registries in the state.
On the other hand, the state has some ammunition bans as well as a mandatory waiting period on firearms purchased at FFLs, and a general prohibition on open carry with few exceptions. This somewhat contradictory approach makes Florida a middle-of-the-pack state in terms of its firearms permissiveness.
While this guide should not be construed as legal advice, we certainly hope that it can be of use to folks who are interested in buying, owning, and carrying firearms and ammunition in the Sunshine State. While the state’s laws have several parts that cover firearms, Chapter 790 of Title 46 of the state statutes is a good place to start in getting a legal foundation for a guide like this.
Luckily, Florida prohibits localities from making firearms laws that are more strict than those at the state level, and thus once one learns the generalities of FL firearms law, that knowledge applies to the entire state. With that said, this piece focuses first on the laws surrounding purchasing ammo in the state before turning to purchasing and carrying firearms in Florida.
Ammo Laws/Buying Ammo in Florida
First, we will cover the ammo laws of the state.
Florida has a law that prohibits the sale and possession of armor-piercing rounds, explosive ammunition, bolo rounds, incendiary rounds, and flechettes. This law exempts law enforcement from the same prohibitions. This is the major ammunition ban in the state: otherwise, things are fairly permissive in that there are no additional background checks or paperwork to buy ammunition in the state.
As long as the ammunition that a buyer wants is not on the prohibited list we linked to above, it is possible to have ammunition shipped to a residential address in Florida. Federal laws still apply, so there is an age requirement: people have to be 18 to buy rifle and shotgun ammunition, and 21 to buy handgun ammunition. Additionally, prohibited persons, usually those who have been convicted of felonies, or domestic violence, or have been ruled to be mentally incapable in a court of law, cannot purchase ammunition in Florida.
Aside from the aforementioned prohibited ammunition types, Florida is otherwise permissive when it comes to the buying of ammunition, and buyers who meet the requirements can have their ammunition shipped directly to residential addresses. Keep in mind, though, that carriers can impose their own rules, such as asking for an adult with a valid ID to be present to accept and sign for the delivery of ammunition.
Gun Laws/Buying Guns in Florida
Next, we will do the same analysis for gun laws.
Florida presents a seriously mixed bag in terms of its firearms laws and their permissiveness. On the permissive end, Florida’s laws bar the state from creating or maintaining any kind of firearms registry. The state also goes out of its way to carefully list many circumstances in which people can lawfully carry and use firearms. Additionally, Florida recently became a Constitutional Carry state, in which people do not need to have a concealed carry permit to concealed carry a firearm.
Despite no longer requiring a permit, the Florida Department of Agriculture does still offer concealed carry permits: these are useful for both interstate reciprocity, and to alleviate the need for waiting periods should one plan to purchase firearms inside the state.
With these laws, one might think that FL is extremely firearms-friendly. But there are some much less permissive components. For starters, open carry is generally illegal in Florida, with exemptions for both hunting and fishing. There is also a new three-day waiting period on all firearms purchases in the state unless the buyer already has a concealed carry permit or a hunter’s safety card. Florida also has a red flag law, which means that it is possible for the state to come and take someone’s guns even though there has been no hearing with them present, nor a conviction for any crime. Finally, there’s an overall age restriction, meaning that most non-police Floridians cannot buy firearms until they are 21.
Regardless of permitting status, there are some places where Floridians cannot carry firearms. These locations include:
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K-12 schools
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Universities and colleges that forbid carrying on campus
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Inside airport terminals
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Court buildings
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Jails
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Mental health facilities
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Polling places
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Bars
These restrictions are not unusual: states ranging from the least permissive to the most lax in terms of firearms laws have almost identical lists of where folks cannot carry a firearm, and this includes states that do not require permits to carry.
For many folks, this means that buying a firearm in Florida will now take at least three days, and they have to be older than federal law requires to buy long guns. All-in-all, this makes Florida’s laws for purchasing firearms fairly strict. Permitless carry, however, makes the state much more permissive. Since Florida law is such a mixed bag in terms of firearms, a careful reading of the relevant statutes is necessary before getting involved with firearms in Florida.
Florida is home to a number of firearms importers and manufacturers. For example, KelTec is headquartered in the state and does much of its manufacturing in Florida.
The general state of firearms and ammunition laws in Florida is mixed in terms of their overall permissiveness. The state does not have the magazine or assault weapon bans that are common to more restrictive states, but does implement waiting periods and has prohibitions on open carry.
With the addition of a red flag law, Florida appears to be fairly restrictive. It is certainly one of the more restrictive states in the South, to say the least. It is difficult to make a simple declaration about Florida’s gun laws: they are permissive in terms of concealed carry and lack of outright gun bans, but some of the state laws closely resemble those in the most restrictive states. Since there is no one general principle that governs Florida gun laws, having a careful knowledge of the laws on the ground in the state is key to staying on the right side of those laws.
Sales Tax on Guns/Ammo in Florida
The general sales tax in FL is 6%, but localities can and do add additional taxes. Florida does not impose additional taxes on firearms or ammunition sold within the state. In fact, Florida does quite the opposite and has exempted safety equipment like safes and locks from sales tax. The savings are always a welcome thing, as is additional safety when storing firearms.
More Resources:
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The ATF keeps a list of all FFLs in the country, including in Florida. Generally, the list is kept up to date: most gun stores will be either Type One or Type Two FFLs.
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Even the more urban and less gun-friendly parts of the state such as Miami have no shortage of well-reviewed gun stores.
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There are also a number of well-reviewed gun ranges in the state, most of which are indoors, likely thanks to the combination of heat and rain so common to Florida.
The Florida Shooter’s Network is an active forum that contains a lot of local knowledge and has handy regional sub-forums for folks looking for events within easy driving distance.