July 17, 2017
Basic Requirements
Unlike many states, Florida has a relatively easy and straightforward process for obtaining a permit to carry a concealed weapon or firearm. To begin with, there are four basic eligibility requirements:
- You must be 21 years of age or older;
- You must be able to demonstrate competency with a firearm;
- You must currently reside in the United States (If you are serving overseas in any branch of the U.S. military, you must also submit a copy of your deployment with your application); and
- You must be a U.S. citizen or have been deemed a lawful permanent resident alien by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service.
Possible Reasons for Disqualification
Even if you meet the basic requirements for a Concealed Weapon or Firearm License in Florida, you can still be disqualified – or you can lose your license – for a variety of reasons. These include the following:
- You are physically unable to handle a firearm safely.
- You have a felony conviction – and your civil and firearm rights have not yet been restored.
- You were convicted of a misdemeanor involving violence within the last 3 years.
- You were convicted of violating of a controlled substance law or you have multiple arrests for such offenses.
- You have a record of alcohol or drug abuse.
- You have 2 or more Driving Under the Influence (DUI) convictions within the last 3 years.
- You have previously been committed to a mental institution or adjudged incompetent or mentally defective.
- You have been issued an injunction involving domestic violence or against repeat violence that is currently in effect.
- You have renounced your U.S. citizenship.
- You received a dishonorable discharge from any branch of the U.S. military.
- You are a fugitive from justice.
What to Do If You Have Been Denied a License in Florida or Had Your License Revoked
If you have been denied a Concealed Weapon or Firearm License in Florida – or your previously issued license has been revoked – you may want to consult with a criminal defense attorney to determine what needs to be done in order to address the issue. In some cases, an attorney may be able to appeal an adverse decision from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services or expunge or seal the criminal record that is preventing you from obtaining your license or permit.
Call Khonsari Law Group Today to Speak with a St. Petersburg Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you are seeking a Florida Concealed Weapons permit and have questions or concerns about the process, you should speak to an attorney as soon as possible. To schedule a free consultation with a St. Petersburg criminal defense lawyer, call our office today at 727-269-5300 or send us an email through our online contact form.