Florida Concealed Carry License Requirements, Step by Step
The Florida concealed weapon or firearm license comes from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). To get one you must meet the eligibility rules, complete an approved training course, and submit an application with fingerprints and a photo.
Step 1: Check that you qualify
Section 790.06(2) of the Florida Statutes sets the rules. In plain terms, you must:
be 21 or older (there is no younger age for military members or veterans; they get faster processing, not a lower age)
be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
have no felony conviction, and no firearms-related disqualifier
not have a controlled-substance conviction within the past three years
not have a disqualifying mental-health commitment
not be subject to a domestic violence injunction
desire a legal means to carry for lawful self-defense
The list above is a summary, not the full statute. If something in your history is unclear, ask a Florida attorney before you apply.
Step 2: Complete approved training
The statute lists the ways to show competence. Any one is enough:
A hunter education or safety course approved by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Any NRA firearms safety or training course
A firearms safety or training course offered to the public by a law enforcement agency
A law enforcement firearms course for security guards
Evidence of equivalent experience through organized shooting competition or military service
A current or prior Florida concealed carry license
A course taught by a state-certified or NRA-certified firearms instructor
For the instructor-led options, the statute requires the instructor to keep a record that they watched the student safely handle and fire a firearm with live ammunition. That is why a good permit class includes real range time and is not only a classroom session.
Your certificate goes in with your application. Keep a copy.
Step 3: Apply through FDACS
Check the FDACS website for how to apply before you start. You will need:
the completed application
your training certificate
a color photograph
fingerprints (taken by an approved provider)
the application fee
Fees and processing times change. Check the current numbers on the FDACS licensing page, because they are the only reliable source.
Step 4: Wait for approval
By statute the department must approve or deny within 90 days of receiving a complete application (section 790.06(6)). Service members and veterans get expedited processing under section 790.06(6)(f). You can check your status on the FDACS site.
Step 5: Know how long it lasts
A license is valid for 7 years from the date of issue (section 790.06(1)). Renewal is covered in our renewal guide.
Common mistakes
Letting the license expire. After 180 days it can no longer be renewed (section 790.06(11)(a)).
Choosing a class that doesn't include range time. The instructor has to certify you handled and fired the firearm.
Applying with a certificate that doesn't match the statute's list. Ask the instructor which statutory option your class satisfies.
What to do next
Our concealed weapons permit class meets the state's training requirement and includes the range portion. Text (305) 791-4249 or email info@topshotmiami.com for the next date.
General information, not legal advice. Laws change. Consult a Florida attorney about your situation. Last reviewed October 3, 2026.
Sources: Florida Statutes 790.06 (flsenate.gov); FDACS Division of Licensing.
More free guides: Free Firearms Resources From Miami Instructors
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