If you’re a new gun owner or a gun owner that has recently moved to Florida, you need to know about the concealed carry laws. Every state differs in its approach to guns, and you can get in a lot of trouble if you’re not paying attention.
Violations of these laws can include fines, jail time, and forfeiture of the weapon.
To help you stay informed, here is everything you need to know when it comes to Florida concealed carry laws.
What Is Concealed Carry?
A concealed carry weapon is one that is hidden from view. If you’re carrying a gun, you can’t allow it to visibly show in public. It must remain hidden under your belt, in a pocket, or purse.
The oppositive of concealed carry is open carry which means that you can carry your weapon openly. This exists in some states, but not in Florida.
There are exceptions to Florida concealed carry laws. You can carry your weapon openly if you are traveling to or engaged in camping. You can carry in the open if you’re engaged in fishing, hunting, or lawful shooting practice.
You can also open carry if you’re involved in the sales or business of manufacturing or dealing with firearms.
What Does “Shall-Issue” Mean?
Florida is also a shall-issue state which means it issues concealed carry licenses to residents and non-residents of Florida. It’s a mutual agreement between states that recognize the licenses of other states, so long as they recognize their own.
Florida currently recognizes the concealed carry licenses of 37 states across the country. You can find the entire list of the states at https://concealedcoalition.com/ccw/reciprocity-maps/florida-concealed-carry/.
Florida Gun Laws Pertaining to Self Defense
One of the more peculiar gun laws in Florida is the self-defense law. Florida is a Castle Doctrine state which means citizens don’t have the duty to retreat if you’re attacked while you’re somewhere you’re lawfully allowed to be.
Under the law, you can stand your ground and meet the attack with force, possibly deadly force. To use deadly force, you must be in fear for your life.
For example, if someone breaks into your home and you fear for your life, you are allowed to use deadly force under the law.
Now You Know About Florida Concealed Carry
This is all the basic information you need to know when it comes to concealed carry. Because the consequences of illegally carrying a weapon are strict, you don’t want any surprises.
Be sure to have all the correct documentation and keep your weapon secure and concealed. And remember, these are the laws for Florida. If you visit another state, you’ll need to research those laws as well. It’s never worth the risk!
To learn about more gun laws and legal topics, be sure to check out the rest of our blog. We have a ton of other articles that you’ll love!