Firearms Safety and Home Defense FAQ
Find the answers to common questions about our firearm safety classes below.
Do you need a concealed weapons permit (CWP) to carry a firearm in Florida?
No. Florida’s recently signed legislation makes it the 26th state to allow constitutional carry. As of July 1, 2023, Florida residents who are legally eligible to purchase a firearm can conceal carry without a permit. However, there are many benefits to becoming a CWP permit holder in Florida, such as avoiding the three-day waiting period when purchasing a new firearm, the ability to identify yourself as a responsible gun owner, and enhanced training on safe gun ownership. Through reciprocity agreements, Florida concealed weapons permits are also valid in 37 other states.
Do you have to take a class to get a concealed carry weapons permit in Florida?
Yes. According to Florida Statute 790.06(2)(h), anyone desiring to obtain their concealed carry firearm license must display competence through one of several approved methods. Many private citizens demonstrate this competency by completing a firearms safety training course. Firearms safety courses must be conducted by a certified instructor who meets the statute’s minimum requirements. Firearms Safety and Home Defense offers CWP classes that will allow you to apply for your concealed carry license after completion.
What will I learn during a CWP class?
CWP classes cover all the fundamentals you need to know to properly carry a concealed firearm in Florida. You’ll learn proper shooting techniques, storage methods, handling common shooting situations, and range best practices. You’ll also become familiar with various laws and regulations regarding carrying a concealed firearm in Florida. Then, you’ll put what you learned into practice during supervised range time.
How long are the classes?
CWP classes are typically about six hours long. This includes four hours of classroom instruction and two hours of range time. However, additional time may be needed to accommodate traveling to the range. We suggest clearing your schedule for the entire day when participating in a CWP training class.
How do I sign up for a class?
Firearm safety classes are held throughout the year. View our current class offerings and sign up here. For information about private lessons and customized instruction, email us directly
Is Firearms Safety and Home Defense certified?
Yes. Certified USCCA instructor and Range Safety Officer Lee Dawson teaches our classes. Our certification is valid in Florida and 37 other states. Learn more about Lee here.
How do I apply for a CWP in Florida?
To apply for your concealed carry license in Florida, you must meet various requirements detailed in Florida Statute 790.06. These include being a US citizen or permanent resident who is at least 21 years old without a criminal history that includes felonies, domestic misdemeanors, or a prison sentence that lasted more than one year. You must also demonstrate adequate firearm proficiency, such as completing a state-certified CWP class. After completing the class, you must submit your certificate of completion, an affidavit from your instructor, your CWP application, and a registration fee to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. You must also submit fingerprints and undergo a background check before your license is approved.
How long does it take to obtain my CWP license once I’ve completed the class?
Once you’ve successfully submitted your CWP paperwork to the proper government entity, processing your license takes about 55 days. According to Florida law, the department must issue your permit or deny your request within 90 days of applying.
How often do I need to renew my CWP, and what are the requirements?
Approved CWP licenses are valid for seven years after the issue date. You can renew your license online or at a Department of Agriculture Regional Office. You’ll also need to submit a $45 renewal fee.
How much does getting a CWP cost?
When you submit your CWP application to the state, you must pay a $55 license fee. You will also have to pay a $45 fee for renewing your license every seven years. Other costs to consider when getting your CWP license include the cost of an approved firearms safety course, your firearm, and various accessories, such as holsters, to conceal your weapon properly.
Where are classes held?
Our classes are held in various locations throughout Central Florida, such as private homes for individualized lessons and conference centers for group instruction. We also have classes that regularly meet at facilities in the Champions Gate area of Osceola County.
Where does live range time occur?
We have agreements with several ranges in Central Florida to conduct your two-hour live range time as part of your CWP training course. These ranges include the Orlando Gun Club in Ocoee and Tenoroc, an outdoor range in Lakeland. We can work to reserve a suitable range based on your location in Central Florida.