How to Obtain a Concealed Weapons License in Florida

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During troubling times, many Americans are applying for concealed weapons licenses (CWL) across the nation. In October 2020, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) received 38,349 new CWL applications and 8,590 renewal applications. This is over twice the normal monthly amount of CWL applications compared to the two previous years. If you are considering applying for a concealed weapons license, keep reading to find out what the process is like and what to expect.

Applying for a Florida Concealed Weapons License

1. Confirm Your Eligibility

Like other states, Florida has specific eligibility requirements to help you determine if you qualify for a concealed weapons license. You can use this preliminary eligibility quiz to help you find out if you qualify for a CWL.

The Quiz Will Ask About:

  • Your age
  • Your physical and mental health
  • Your citizenship
  • Any criminal history, such as felonies, misdemeanors, or DUI
  • Your veteran status

2. Complete Training Requirements

Florida requires specific training necessary to obtain a concealed weapons license. Once you complete the required training, you will need to keep a copy of your certificate of completion. This will be used to verify the training requirements for a CWL. 

Types of Training Options:

  • Hunter education/safety course approved by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
  • National Rifle Association firearms safety course
  • Law enforcement firearms safety course
  • Firearms training/safety course conducted by state-certified instructor or certified through National Rifle Association

For active-duty military personnel, you can submit copies of any documents confirming your firearm experience obtained during service. Former military personnel can send a DD Form 214 indicating their honorable discharge from military service.

3. Submit Your Application

Once you have completed the training requirements, you are ready to submit your application. You can submit it in-person or by mail. The first option is considered much faster, which may help you make your decision.

To submit your application in-person, you will need to:

  • Contact a fully licensed Florida agency closest to you, so you can schedule your appointment.
  • During your appointment, you will complete your application at a computer station. 
  • The staff will review your application, take your fingerprints, photos, and then process your payment.

To submit your application via mail, you will need to:

  • Download and fill out an application.
  • Submit your fingerprints electronically.
  • Print out a passport-style, color picture (2” by 2” on white background).
  • Include documentation of training completion.
  • Include certified copies of court documents regarding any criminal charges against you.
  • Submit a check or money order ($120) for the license fee made out to the “Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.”
  • Mail the above content to:

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

Division of Licensing

PO Box 6687

Tallahassee, FL 32314

As you can see, obtaining a concealed weapons license requires several steps that take some and patience. It’s important to contact a fully licensed agency that is regulated by the Florida’s Department of Agriculture. This is necessary to ensure your personal information will be kept safe and secure by the agency. If you need to obtain a concealed weapons license, contact PATRIOT Backgrounds and Investigations in Davie, FL today.

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