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Can you openly carry a gun in Florida without a permit?

And the law does not make Florida an open carry state, so Floridians must keep their weapons concealed, and there's a list of places where they still cannot carry guns, like schools, government buildings, airports, and bars. Those without a permit will also have a three-day waiting period when buying a handgun.



As of early 2026, Florida remains a "permitless carry" state for concealed weapons, but open carry is generally prohibited except in very specific circumstances. Under the law effective since 2023, eligible adults can carry a concealed firearm without a permit, provided they meet the same criteria required for a license (e.g., 21+, legal resident). However, "open carry"—the act of wearing a firearm in plain view—is still illegal under Florida Statute 790.053, with a few narrow exceptions: while engaged in, or going to/from, fishing, camping, or lawful hunting. While some 2026 legislative sessions have debated "Constitutional Open Carry," it has not yet replaced the long-standing ban on public open carry in everyday settings like stores or city streets.

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Concealed Firearm Permit For example, a person may have the weapon in a parcel, backpack or purse. He or she may have it under a shirt or in a pocket. It is illegal for people in Florida to carry a concealed firearm without a permit. This act can result in a conviction for a third degree felony.

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