Florida Concealed Weapon License (CWL)

Overview

Requirements

• Be at least 21 years old (or 18 if active military or honorably discharged veteran)
• Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
• Not have a felony conviction (unless civil rights have been restored)
• Not have been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence
• Not have been committed to a mental institution or adjudicated mentally defective
• Not be a chronic alcoholic or substance abuser
• Not currently be subject to a domestic violence injunction or restraining order
• Demonstrate competence with a firearm through an approved training course
• Non-residents may apply — Florida issues non-resident permits by mail

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Complete Required Training

   Complete a firearms training course that meets Florida Statute 790.06 requirements. An NRA Basic Pistol course or equivalent satisfies this requirement. The course must include live-fire demonstration of competency.

2. Gather Required Documents

   You will need:

   • Completed training certificate (copy)
   • Valid driver license or state-issued ID (copy)
   • Passport-style color photograph (recent, within last 30 days)
   • Completed Florida CWL application form

3. Get Fingerprinted

   Obtain a set of electronic fingerprints from any law enforcement agency or authorized fingerprinting provider. Out-of-state applicants can use any livescan provider — the fingerprints must be submitted electronically to FDACS.

4. Submit Your Application

   Non-residents can submit the complete application package by mail to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), Division of Licensing. Include all documents and the $97 fee (check or money order payable to Florida Department of Agriculture).

   You can also apply online at FDACS Concealed Weapon License Portal

5. Background Check & Processing

   FDACS will conduct a thorough background check. By law, they have 90 days to issue or deny your license. Most applications are processed within 50–70 days.

6. Receive Your License

   Your Florida CWL will be mailed to the address on your application. The license is valid for 7 years — one of the longest validity periods of any state.

Florida CWL Reciprocity Map

See which states honor your Florida Concealed Weapon License. Hover over (or tap on mobile) any state for details.

Official Resources

• FDACS — Concealed Weapon License
• FDACS — How to Apply