Florida Gun Laws 2026

Complete guide to firearms laws in Florida.

Last updated: 2026-03-14

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Gun laws change frequently. Consult a licensed attorney in Florida for guidance.

Quick Reference

Permit to Purchase: Not required
Background Check: State-run background check (FDLE) for all FFL sales
Waiting Period: 3 days
Open Carry: Generally prohibited (exceptions for fishing, hunting, camping)
Concealed Carry: Permit Required
Assault Weapon Ban: No
Magazine Limit: No limit
Red Flag Law: Yes

Complete Guide

Purchasing a Firearm in Florida

Florida does not require a special permit or license to purchase a firearm. Buyers must be at least 18 years old for long guns (rifles and shotguns) and 21 for handguns when purchasing from a licensed dealer, in accordance with federal law. All buyers must be able to pass a background check and must not be a prohibited person under federal or state law.

Florida requires background checks for all firearm sales, including private transactions between individuals. This universal background check requirement means that even sales at gun shows between private parties must go through a licensed dealer or state-run system. This is one of the more comprehensive background check requirements in the country.

Florida imposes a 3-day waiting period on firearm purchases. After completing the background check, the buyer must wait 3 days before taking possession of the firearm. Some exemptions may apply, such as for current concealed carry permit holders, law enforcement, or in cases of documented threats.

Concealed Carry in Florida

Florida has a permit-based concealed carry system. Florida requires a concealed carry permit or license to carry a concealed handgun in public. The state operates a shall-issue system, meaning the issuing authority must grant the permit if the applicant meets all legal requirements. There is no discretionary denial. Requirements typically include minimum age, background check, and in some cases a firearms safety training course.

Concealed carry permit holders (where applicable) should be aware of restricted locations where carry is prohibited regardless of permit status. These typically include federal buildings, courthouses, schools and school zones, polling places on election day, and any private property where firearms are prohibited by the owner. Posted signage requirements vary by state — in Florida, always look for posted signs at building entrances.

Open Carry Laws

Open carry of firearms is generally restricted or prohibited in Florida. This means carrying a firearm in a visible manner in public is not permitted without specific authorization. Concealed carry with a valid permit remains the primary legal method for carrying a firearm in public.

Assault Weapons and Magazine Restrictions

Florida does not have an assault weapons ban. Semi-automatic firearms of all types may be legally purchased, possessed, and carried (subject to general firearms laws). There are no state-level restrictions on specific firearm features such as pistol grips, adjustable stocks, or flash suppressors.

Florida does not restrict magazine capacity. There are no limits on the number of rounds a magazine may hold. Standard-capacity and high-capacity magazines of any size may be legally purchased and possessed.

Red Flag Law

Florida has enacted a red flag law, also known as an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) law. This allows family members, law enforcement, or in some states other designated individuals to petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from a person who is deemed to be a danger to themselves or others. The process involves a hearing, and the subject has the right to contest the order. If granted, firearms are temporarily confiscated and the individual is prohibited from purchasing new firearms for the duration of the order, typically 6-12 months.

Gun Show Regulations in Florida

Gun shows in Florida follow the same laws that apply to all firearm sales. Licensed dealers (FFLs) at gun shows must conduct background checks on all purchases, just as they would at their retail location. All sales at gun shows, including private sales between individuals, require a background check under state law. Gun shows typically require all firearms brought in for sale to be unloaded and secured with cable ties or similar safety devices. Individual show promoters may set additional rules.

FFL Transfer Rules

When purchasing a firearm online, the firearm must be shipped to a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) in Florida for the transfer. The buyer then completes the standard Form 4473 and background check at the FFL's location. FFL transfer fees in Florida typically range from $20 to $75 per firearm. Use our FFL dealer directory to find transfer-friendly dealers near you.

Key Considerations for Florida Residents

Florida maintains a permit-based system for concealed carry, balancing Second Amendment rights with regulatory oversight. Gun owners should stay informed of any legislative changes, as firearms laws are frequently updated. The information on this page reflects the law as of 2026, but laws can change at any time. Always consult the full text of current state statutes or a licensed attorney in Florida before making legal decisions based on this guide.

For more information on firearms in Florida, visit our FFL dealer directory for Florida, browse upcoming gun shows in Florida, or check the concealed carry reciprocity map to see which states honor Florida's carry permits.

Key Statutes & Citations

Fla. Stat. § 790.01 — Unlawful Carrying of Firearms
Fla. Stat. § 790.06 — License to Carry Concealed Weapon or Firearm
Fla. Stat. § 790.065 — Sale and Delivery of Firearms
Fla. Stat. § 790.31 — Armor-Piercing or Exploding Ammunition or Dragon's Breath Shotgun Shells, Bolo Shells, or Flechette Shells Prohibited
Fla. Stat. § 790.401 — Risk Protection Orders

What Changed in 2026

No significant firearms legislation was enacted in Florida during the 2026 legislative session. The last major change was the enactment of the state's 'red flag' law in 2018, which allows law enforcement and family members to petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed to be a threat to themselves or others.

Legislative Landscape

Florida's firearms laws have remained relatively stable in recent years, with no major legislative changes enacted. The state continues to have a Republican-controlled legislature and governorship, maintaining a pro-gun rights stance. While some proposals for additional restrictions have been introduced, they have not gained significant traction.

Buying a Handgun

In Florida, the purchase of a handgun from a licensed firearms dealer requires the buyer to be at least 21 years old and undergo a state-run background check through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). There is a 3-day waiting period between the time of purchase and the time the handgun can be released to the buyer, unless the buyer has a valid concealed carry permit. No permit is required to purchase a handgun, and there is no handgun registration requirement.

Buying a Rifle or Shotgun

The requirements for purchasing a rifle or shotgun in Florida are similar to those for handguns. Buyers must be at least 18 years old and undergo a background check through the FDLE. There is no waiting period for the purchase of long guns, and no permit is required. Florida does not have any restrictions on the types of rifles or shotguns that can be purchased.

Private Sales

In Florida, private party sales of firearms (person-to-person, not through a licensed dealer) are permitted without a background check. However, the seller is required to maintain a record of the sale, including the buyer's name, the date of the sale, and a description of the firearm. The seller is also required to verify the buyer's identification and ensure the buyer is not prohibited from possessing a firearm.

Permits & Licensing Details

Florida issues concealed carry permits to eligible residents and non-residents who complete the required training and background check. The permit application process includes submitting fingerprints, passing a background check, and completing a firearms safety and training course. Permits are valid for 5 years and can be renewed. Individuals who do not have a permit may still carry firearms in some limited circumstances, such as while hunting, fishing, or camping.

Carrying in a Vehicle

In Florida, individuals may carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle without a permit, as long as the firearm is securely encased or is otherwise not readily accessible for immediate use. Long guns, such as rifles and shotguns, may also be transported in a vehicle, either loaded or unloaded, as long as they are securely encased.

No-Carry Zones

In Florida, firearms are generally prohibited in the following locations, even for individuals with a valid concealed carry permit:

Schools (K-12 and postsecondary institutions)
Courthouses
Polling places
Legislative meetings of a state or local governmental entity
Meetings of the executive branch of the state or local governmental entity
Florida Cabinet meetings
Athletic events not related to firearms
Establishments licensed to dispense alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises.

Shipping & FFL Transfers

Firearms shipped into Florida from out of state must be transferred through a licensed firearms dealer (FFL). The FFL will conduct a background check on the recipient and complete the necessary paperwork. Florida does not impose any additional state-specific fees or processes beyond the federal requirements for these types of transfers.

Revision History

2026-03-14 — Comprehensive content update: added statute citations, vehicle carry rules, no-carry zones, permit details, buying rules by firearm type, and shipping/transfer notes.

Concealed Carry Reciprocity

Florida honors concealed carry permits from 49 states.

View all 49 states →

Reciprocity agreements change frequently. Verify current recognition with your state attorney general before traveling with a firearm.

Full reciprocity map →

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to buy a gun in Florida?

No. Florida does not require a permit or license to purchase a firearm.

Is Florida a permitless carry state?

No. Florida requires a concealed carry permit or license to carry concealed in public.

What is the waiting period for buying a gun in Florida?

Florida has a 3-day waiting period for firearm purchases.

Can I openly carry a firearm in Florida?

Generally prohibited (exceptions for fishing, hunting, camping)

Does Florida have a red flag law?

Yes. Florida has an Extreme Risk Protection Order (red flag) law that allows courts to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a danger.

Does Florida ban assault weapons or limit magazine capacity?

No. Florida does not ban assault weapons. There are no magazine capacity restrictions.