How to apply

1. Meet the eligibility criteria in s. 790.06(2), including proof of competence (see Training).
2. Submit to FDACS or an approved tax collector: application under oath, fee, full set of fingerprints, training certificate copy, and a color photo taken within 30 days (s. 790.06(5)).
3. FDACS must issue or deny within 90 days of receiving the complete application (extendable up to 45 days when criminal history lacks a disposition) (s. 790.06(6)(c)). Servicemembers and veterans may request expedited processing.

Fees & term

• New: up to $55; renewal: up to $45; fingerprint processing extra. Sheriff fingerprinting may cost up to $5.
• Valid 7 years statewide (s. 790.06(1)(c)). Duplicate for a lost license: $15.

Renewing

FDACS mails a renewal notice at least 90 days before expiration. Renew on or before expiration; a late renewal costs an extra $15, and a license 180 days or more past expiration is permanently expired (s. 790.06(11)). Out-of-state residents must resubmit fingerprints.

Age: 2026 update

The statute says 21+, but FDACS reports that after Eubanks v. Florida (Fla. 4th DCA, June 17, 2026) it will issue licenses to otherwise eligible applicants 18 or older (FDACS notice).

Recommended gear

Once you are getting set up to carry, these are the basics we recommend looking at (we never link firearms or ammunition):

IWB holster

Inside-the-waistband holster with full trigger-guard coverage.

Shop holsters on Amazon →

Gun safe / lockbox

Quick-access biometric or keypad safe for home or travel storage.

Shop gun safes on Amazon →

Range bag & eye/ear

Eye and ear protection, plus a bag to keep range day organized.

Shop range gear on Amazon →

Cleaning kit

A basic rod, brush and patch kit for after the range.

Shop cleaning kits on Amazon →

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Questions folks ask