Florida Gun Laws 2026 — Complete Guide
Florida firearms laws govern how residents and visitors may purchase, possess, carry, and use firearms within the state. This guide covers the most important aspects of Florida gun laws as of 2026, including purchase requirements, carry permits, waiting periods, and self-defense statutes. Always consult official state statutes and legal counsel for binding legal guidance.
Purchasing Firearms in Florida
Permit to purchase: No permit required to purchase. Florida does not require a separate state-level permit to purchase firearms beyond the standard federal requirements. Buyers must be at least 21 years old for handguns and 21 years old for long guns (rifles and shotguns). All purchases through licensed FFL dealers require a federal NICS background check.
Background checks: FDLE conducts state background check. When you purchase a firearm on WeaponDepot, it ships to your chosen FFL dealer in Florida who handles all required paperwork and background check processing.
Waiting period: 3-day waiting period for handgun purchases (may be waived for concealed-carry license holders).
Carrying Firearms in Florida
Open carry: Legal without a permit (open carry legalized September 2025).
Concealed carry: Permitless concealed carry (since July 2023); no license required. Florida operates under constitutional carry. As a constitutional carry state, Florida allows eligible residents to carry a concealed firearm without obtaining a government-issued permit. However, optional permits remain available for reciprocity with other states.
Restrictions & Prohibited Items
Must be 21 to purchase any firearm, bump stock ban. Federal restrictions on NFA items (short-barreled rifles, suppressors, machine guns) still apply and require ATF approval through the appropriate tax stamp process.
Self-Defense Laws
Florida follows the Stand Your Ground law, which means individuals have no duty to retreat before using force in self-defense when they are in a place they have a legal right to be. The state also provides Castle Doctrine protections, protecting individuals who use force against intruders in their home, vehicle, or place of business.
Red Flag Laws & Preemption
Florida has enacted a red flag law (Extreme Risk Protection Order). This law allows law enforcement or family members to petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others. Additionally, Florida has state preemption, meaning local municipalities cannot enact firearms laws stricter than state law.
Buying Online & FFL Transfers in Florida
Federal and state rules can affect an online firearm purchase and its transfer. Confirm the receiving dealer's requirements, availability, and fees before placing an order. Use our FFL dealer directory for Florida to find local businesses and contact them directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a permit to buy a gun in Florida?
- No permit required to purchase. No state-level purchase permit is required. All FFL purchases require a federal background check.
- Is concealed carry legal in Florida?
- Permitless concealed carry (since July 2023); no license required. Florida is a constitutional carry state.
- Does Florida have a waiting period?
- 3-day waiting period for handgun purchases (may be waived for concealed-carry license holders).
- Does Florida have a red flag law?
- Florida has enacted a red flag law (Extreme Risk Protection Order).
- Where can I find FFL dealers in Florida?
- Visit our FFL dealer directory for Florida to find local businesses and contact them about transfer services and fees.
Source, Editorial Status & Scope
Dataset maintained by: WeaponDepot Editorial. Last recorded editorial update: 2026-05-01. No named individual reviewer or professional credentials are recorded, so this page does not claim professional review. This page is general educational information, not legal advice. Laws, agency guidance, local ordinances, and court decisions can change.
Change history: No itemized change note is recorded for this revision.