Florida Reciprocity Attorneys

Why Reciprocity Matters

Reciprocity refers to the mutual recognition of concealed carry permits between states. For Florida gun owners, this determines whether you can legally carry your firearm across state lines. Without proper recognition, carrying in another state could lead to serious criminal charges, including firearm possession violations, arrests, fines, or even jail time.

Likewise, a visitor traveling to Florida must know whether your home state’s concealed carry license will be recognized here. Florida’s statutes allow for recognition of licenses from states that also recognize Florida’s permits, but with significant restrictions. 

One key limitation is that Florida will not recognize a permit issued to a non-resident of that state. In other words, you must live in the state that issued your license for it to be valid in Florida.

Reciprocity in Florida

Under Florida Statutes § 790.015, our state recognizes concealed weapon licenses from other states that grant the same courtesy to Florida license holders. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) publishes a list of states with reciprocity agreements. However, these lists are not always current, and relying on them without legal guidance can put you at risk.

Our firm has identified errors on these official lists, including outdated information that remained online for months before being corrected. This is just one example of how easily misinformation can lead gun owners into legal trouble.

Eligibility for Nonresidents

To carry a concealed weapon in Florida, a nonresident must:

• Be a U.S. citizen residing in another state.
• Be at least 21 years old.
• Possess a valid concealed weapon or firearm license issued by their home state.
• Comply with Florida's licensing criteria, such as not having felony convictions or substance abuse issues.

Nonresidents with concealed weapon licenses are subject to the same laws and restrictions as Florida residents. If a nonresident establishes legal residence in Florida, their out-of-state license remains valid for 90 days.

Reciprocity Outside Florida

If you are a Florida license holder planning to travel, you must also know where your CWFL is valid. Many states recognize Florida’s concealed carry license, but others impose restrictions or honor it only under specific conditions. Because laws change frequently and enforcement can be strict, relying on an outdated online chart or an assumption can expose you to criminal liability.

Discuss Your Case with a Florida Reciprocity Attorney

At Katz & Phillips, we exclusively work to protect gun owners’ rights. Our attorneys help clients understand and navigate the patchwork of reciprocity laws so they can carry with confidence.

 Whether you are:

• A Florida resident planning to travel out of state,
• A visitor coming into Florida with a valid out-of-state license, or
• Unsure whether your permit is recognized,

we can provide the legal guidance you need to avoid criminal consequences. If you have already been arrested or charged because of a reciprocity misunderstanding, our team, led by former prosecutors, has the skill, experience, and commitment to protect your rights.

Serving Gun Owners Across Florida

From our Orlando office, we represent clients statewide. With 44+ years of combined legal experience and exclusive focus on gun rights and defense, our Florida reciprocity attorneys are uniquely positioned to guide gun owners through the complexities of firearm laws.

Call (321) 425-8961 or connect with us online for a confidential consultation about your legal concerns today.