There are three ways to apply:

Online: Visit the Florida Dept of Agriculture & Consumer Services Website to apply online

In Person: You can apply for a concealed weapon license in person at a Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) regional office or an authorized Florida tax collector’s office in your area.

By Mail: Download the Concealed Weapon Application and the Application Instructions. Mail to the Florida Dept of Agriculture & Consumer Services with your fingerprint card.

Read more on all application methods here: https://www.fdacs.gov/Consumer-Resources/Concealed-Weapon-License/Applying-for-a-Concealed-Weapon-License

Answer a few simple questions HERE to determine your preliminary eligibility for a Florida Concealed Weapon or Firearm license.

Basic Eligibility Requirements include:

• You must be 21 years of age or older.
• You must be able to demonstrate competency with a firearm.
• Unless you are serving overseas in the United States Armed Forces, you must currently reside in the United States and be a U.S. citizen or deemed a lawful permanent resident alien by Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service. If you are serving overseas in the U.S. Armed Forces, submit a copy of your deployment documentation with your application. Those who are Resident Aliens must provide a valid Permanent Resident Alien card.

Common reasons an applicant could be considered ineligible include:

• The physical inability to handle a firearm safely.
• A felony conviction (unless civil and firearm rights have been restored by the convicting authority).
• Having adjudication withheld or sentence suspended on a felony or misdemeanor crime of violence unless three years have elapsed since probation or other conditions set by the court have been fulfilled.
• A conviction for a misdemeanor crime of violence in the last three years.
• A conviction for violation of controlled substance laws or multiple arrests for such offenses.
• A record of drug or alcohol abuse.
• Two or more DUI convictions within the previous three years.
• Being committed to a mental institution or adjudged incompetent or mentally defective.
• Failing to provide proof of proficiency with a firearm.
• Having been issued a domestic violence injunction or an injunction against repeat violence that is currently in force.
• Renouncement of U.S. citizenship.
• A dishonorable discharge from the armed forces.
• Being a fugitive from justice.

The Florida Dept of Agriculture & Consumer Services (FDACS) has 90 days after receipt of a complete application to either issue a license or deny the application. Processing is typically less than the 90 days and permits are issued in the order in which applications are received.

Delays can be caused by issues such as an incomplete application, illegible fingerprints, or an inconclusive background check. Read More.

⇒ Check the status of your application

Please review Florida’s Regional Office Safety Guidelines and call (850) 245-5300 to schedule an appointment.

For all other matters, call (850) 245-5691. You may also connect with the Dept. of Agriculture by email at DOL@FDACS.gov.

CLICK HERE to read the current Florida Statute as of 2023. There are still places where you are restricted from carrying a weapon or firearm even if you have a license. This includes law enforcement stations, prisons/jails, any courthouse/courtroom, any polling place, and meeting of a governmental body at any level (city, county, district, school board), any meeting of the legislature or its committees, any athletic event (that is not firearms related), any school or school administration building, any portion of a venue that dispenses alcohol for consumption (such as a bar), any college or technical school facility, airports, and any other location where carrying a firearm is prohibited by federal law. This is not an exhaustive list – See Section 790.06(12), Florida Statutes (F.S.), for a complete listing.

Even though Concealed Carry Permits are no longer required in the State of Florida, there are still several good reasons for obtaining one.

• Reciprocity: Florida has reciprocity with 36 other states. This means that these states recognize the validity of Florida’s permit. You are still responsible for following the laws and regulations of that state. This is especially valuable for individuals who frequently travel or work across state lines Learn more about Reciprocity on the DACS website.
• Purchasing Firearms: Holders of a Concealed Carry Permit are not subject to the waiting period when purchasing a gun from an authorized dealer. As soon as eligibility is verified, purchasers can leave with their new gun purchase the same day. 
• Legal Knowledge & Training: Obtaining a concealed carry permit typically involves completing a firearm safety course and passing a background check. This can provide valuable knowledge about firearm safety, self-defense laws, and responsible gun ownership. Even if it’s not required, the training can be beneficial for those who want to be responsible gun owners.
• Gun Free Zones: Some states allow concealed carry permit holders to carry firearms in places that are otherwise designated as “gun-free zones.” If you value the ability to carry in such areas, having a permit may be necessary.
• Insurance Services: Some insurance providers offer policies specifically tailored to concealed carry permit holders. These policies can provide coverage for legal expenses in case you ever have to use your firearm in self-defense.

It’s essential to understand that the reasons for obtaining a concealed carry permit can vary from person to person, and the decision should be based on your individual circumstances, needs, and legal considerations. It’s also crucial to stay informed about any changes in firearm laws and regulations in your state and any states you may travel to, as they can evolve over time. As NRA-Certified Firearms Instructors, we can help provide you with personalized guidance on the right decision for you.