Florida’s Permitless Concealed Carry Questions

Does Florida allow the open carrying of firearms?

Answer: No.

On July 1, 2023, House BIll 543, authorizing the permitless concealed carry of weapons and firearms by those who are eligible, became a law in the state of Florida.

The new legislation only authorizes the carrying of concealed weapons and firearms - the open carry of firearms and weapons is not allowed.

Who is allowed to carry a concealed firearm?

Answer: anyone who meets the same general eligibility requirements to obtain a Florida concealed weapons permit:

• A U.S. citizen or a permanent resident alien over the age of 21 years (with the exception of active military members or veterans);
• Does not suffer from a physical infirmity that would prevent the safe handling of a weapon or firearm;
• Does not chronically or habitually use alcohol or other substances to the extent his/her normal faculties are impaired;
• Has not been convicted of a felony;
• Has not been found guilty of a crime under Chapter 893 or similar laws related to controlled substances within a three-year period;
• Has not been adjudicated an incapacitated person under F.S.S. 744.331, or similar laws of other states;
• Has not been committed to a mental institution under F.S.S. 394, or similar laws of another state;
• Has not been issued an injunction that is currently in force and effect;
• Is not prohibited from purchasing or possessing a firearm by any provision of Florida or federal law.

What are the provisions of carrying a concealed weapon or firearm?

Answer: anyone who meets the same general eligibility requirements to obtain a Florida concealed weapons permit may carry a weapon or firearm concealed. Also, the same prohibited locations for where one is allowed to carry a weapon or firearm still apply. You may not possess or bring a firearm or weapon to:

• A place of nuisance defined in F.S.S. 823.05;
• Any police, sheriff, or highway patrol station;
• Any detention facility, prison, or jail;
• Any school, college, or professional athletic event not related to firearms;
• Any elementary or secondary school facility or administration building;
• Any college or university (unless the weapon is a stun gun or nonlethal electronic weapon or device used solely for defense, and does not fire a dart or projectile);
• Any courtroom (unless a judge makes an exception for his or her courtroom);
• Any polling place;
• The inside of a passenger terminal of any airport;
• Any meeting of the governing body of a county, public school district, municipality, special district, meeting of the Legislature or committee thereof;
• Any career center;
• Anywhere licensed to dispense alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises, which is primarily devoted to such purpose (ie. a bar or pub);
• Any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law.