Can You Open Carry in Florida with a License?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The New Landscape of Florida Carry Laws
3. The Open Carry Restriction in Florida
4. Specific Exceptions for Outdoor Activities
5. The Role of the Concealed Weapon and Firearm License
6. Choosing Gear for Concealed Carry in the Florida Heat
7. Safe Handling and Firearm Retention
8. Firearm Care in Humid Environments
9. Practicing for Preparedness
10. The Importance of Situational Awareness
11. Legal and Ethical Considerations
12. Conclusion
13. FAQ

Introduction

Whether you are navigating the dense brush of the Ocala National Forest or casting a line in the Florida Keys, understanding how to legally carry a firearm is vital for your safety and peace of mind. Many outdoor enthusiasts assume that a license or the recent shift to permitless carry allows them to wear a sidearm openly. However, Florida’s laws are specific and often misunderstood by those who don't spend their time digging through statutes.

At BattlBox, we believe that the best gear is useless if you don't understand the rules governing its use. If you want to get expert-curated gear delivered monthly, this article will clarify the current legal standing of open carry in the Sunshine State, explain the specific exceptions for outdoorsmen, and discuss the role of a Concealed Weapon and Firearm License (CWFL). Our goal is to ensure you stay prepared and law-abiding during your next adventure. While Florida has expanded carry rights, open carry remains restricted to very specific scenarios.

Quick Answer: No, you generally cannot open carry in Florida even with a license. Florida is a concealed carry state; however, there are specific exceptions for those engaged in or traveling to and from fishing, hunting, or camping.

The New Landscape of Florida Carry Laws

On July 1, 2023, Florida became the 26th state to implement permitless carry. This change, often referred to as constitutional carry, sparked a lot of conversation in the survival and outdoor communities. It is important to define what this law actually changed and, more importantly, what it did not change.

Permitless carry allows any person who meets the legal requirements for a concealed weapon license to carry a concealed firearm without an actual permit. You must still be a US citizen, at least 21 years old, and free of any disqualifying criminal record or legal restrictions. While this was a significant shift, it did not change the method of carry.

The law is very clear that the firearm must be carried in a concealed manner. Concealed means the firearm is carried on or about a person in a way that it is hidden from the ordinary sight of another person. If you are walking down a public street in Orlando, your firearm must be tucked away and out of view.

The Open Carry Restriction in Florida

Florida Statute 790.053 generally prohibits the open carry of firearms. This means that even if you possess a Florida Concealed Weapon and Firearm License (CWFL), you are not permitted to walk around in public with a pistol in an exposed holster. The license itself is specifically for "concealed" weapons.

If you want a better sense of how carry gear should actually fit and ride, our What is the Most Comfortable Concealed Carry Holster? guide is a helpful next step. There is a small protection for license holders known as the "brief exposure" rule. If you have a license and your firearm becomes briefly visible to the ordinary sight of another person, it is not a violation of the law as long as the firearm was not "brandished" in an angry or threatening manner. This protection is designed to prevent law-abiding citizens from being prosecuted for a simple wardrobe malfunction, like a shirt riding up over a holster.

Why Florida Stays Concealed

Many states that allow permitless carry also allow open carry. Florida opted not to include open carry in its 2023 legislative changes. Law enforcement and lawmakers in the state have historically preferred concealed carry for the general public. This keeps the presence of firearms discreet in high-traffic tourist areas and populated cities. For the average person, this means you need a solid EDC collection that focuses on deep concealment.

Key Takeaway: Having a license does not grant you the right to open carry in typical daily scenarios; the firearm must remain hidden from view.

Specific Exceptions for Outdoor Activities

While the general rule is "no open carry," Florida Statute 790.25(3)(h) provides a significant exception that is critical for the BattlBox community. This statute outlines specific lawful uses where open carry is permitted. If you are an outdoorsman, this is the most important piece of information you can carry.

Open carry is legal in Florida if you are:

1. Engaged in fishing, hunting, or camping.
2. Going to or returning from a fishing, hunting, or camping expedition.

If your time outside centers on those activities, our Hunting & Fishing collection is a natural place to start. This means if you are at your campsite in a state park or standing on a pier with a fishing rod, you can legally have a sidearm in an open holster. This exception exists because the state recognizes the need for self-defense against wildlife and potential threats in remote areas where law enforcement may be far away.

Navigating the "Going To and From" Rule

The phrase "going to and from" is often debated. It does not mean you can open carry in a grocery store just because you are wearing camo and headed to the woods. Generally, courts and law enforcement interpret this as being in the direct process of the activity. If you stop for gas or a meal on the way to your hunting spot, the safest practice is to conceal the firearm or secure it properly in your vehicle.

If you are building out a trip-specific kit for that kind of outing, our Camping collection is a practical place to look. While state law allows open carry for these activities, certain federal lands or private properties may have their own restrictions.

The Role of the Concealed Weapon and Firearm License

With permitless carry now the law, you might wonder if there is any reason to keep or apply for a Florida CWFL. For the serious prepper or traveler, the answer is usually yes. The license offers several advantages that permitless carry does not provide.

One of the biggest benefits is reciprocity. If you travel outside of Florida, your CWFL allows you to carry concealed in many other states that recognize Florida’s permit. Permitless carry only applies within the borders of Florida. If you cross into a state that requires a permit, you could find yourself in legal trouble without that piece of plastic in your wallet.

Another benefit is the waiting period. In Florida, there is a mandatory three-day waiting period (excluding weekends and holidays) for the purchase of a firearm. However, if you have a CWFL, this waiting period is waived. This allows you to take your new gear home the same day you buy it.

If you want to keep your preparedness plan simple and consistent, choose your BattlBox subscription and let the gear come to you on a regular cadence.

Comparison of Carry Methods in Florida

Choosing Gear for Concealed Carry in the Florida Heat

Carrying a firearm in Florida presents a unique challenge: the heat. Because open carry is restricted, you must find a way to hide your gear under light clothing without printing. "Printing" is when the outline of your firearm is visible through your clothes.

We suggest focusing on high-quality holsters and belts. A flimsy belt will sag under the weight of a pistol, making it harder to conceal and less comfortable to wear. Look for a dedicated gun belt that offers rigidity. For holsters, Inside the Waistband (IWB) is the standard for maximum concealment. A compact option like the Powertac Cadet Gen4 flashlight also fits well into an everyday-carry mindset without adding unnecessary bulk.

EDC Essentials

Your carry setup is part of your larger EveryDay Carry system. When we curate items for our missions, we look for gear that fits into a streamlined lifestyle. If you want more ideas for practical pocket-sized tools, our 15 Essential Multi-Tools for Your Everyday Carry Loadout is a strong companion read.

• Holster Material: Kydex is excellent for Florida because it doesn't absorb sweat or moisture like leather.
• Clothing Choice: Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics help keep you cool and can be layered to prevent printing.
• Compact Tools: Sometimes a full-sized firearm is too much for a Florida summer. Many people opt for "sub-compact" or "micro-compact" pistols for these months.

Bottom line: Since open carry is limited to specific outdoor activities, investing in a comfortable concealed carry setup is the best way to stay prepared in Florida.

Safe Handling and Firearm Retention

Whether you are open carrying at a campsite or concealed carrying at the park, safety is the priority. In an outdoor environment, you are moving, climbing, and potentially tripping. You need a holster with excellent retention.

For a deeper look at safe draw and carry mechanics, How to Use a Concealed Carry Holster: A Comprehensive Guide is worth reading. Retention refers to how well the holster holds the gun in place. For open carry during hunting or fishing, a "Level 2" or "Level 3" holster is often recommended. These require a specific action—like pushing a button or flipping a hood—to release the firearm. This prevents the gun from falling out while you are trekking through thick brush.

For concealed carry, "passive retention" (the friction of the holster holding the gun) is usually enough, provided the holster is high quality. Always test your gear. Put your empty firearm in the holster and move around. If it feels loose, it needs adjustment.

Firearm Care in Humid Environments

Florida’s humidity and salt air are brutal on gear. If you are open carrying while fishing, your firearm is exposed to even more corrosive elements. Rust can form quickly, especially on steel components.

If you are building a moisture-resistant kit for the outdoors, the Dark Energy Plasma Lighter is another compact tool that belongs in the conversation. Step 1: Daily Inspection. / If you carry every day, check your firearm every evening. Look for signs of surface rust or lint buildup. Step 2: Regular Cleaning. / Use a high-quality solvent and lubricant. Ensure that you are using a protectant that is designed to repel moisture. Step 3: Wipe Down. / After a day spent outdoors, wipe the exterior of your firearm with a silicone-impregnated cloth. This creates a thin barrier against the air. Step 4: Proper Storage. / When not in use, store your firearm in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving it in a foam-lined case for long periods, as foam can trap moisture against the metal.

Practicing for Preparedness

The most important "gear" you own is your skill set. Having a firearm is only useful if you can deploy it safely and effectively under pressure. Because Florida requires concealment in most cases, you must practice your "draw stroke" from a concealed position.

For a compact preparedness tool that fits the same mindset, the ResQme Vehicle Escape Tool is the kind of everyday-ready gear that belongs in a vehicle kit. This means practicing how to clear your garment (moving your shirt or jacket out of the way) before gripping the pistol. Do this with an unloaded firearm in a safe environment until the motion becomes muscle memory. If you are using the open carry exception for camping, practice drawing from your retention holster, as the mechanics are different.

Myth: You can open carry a fixed-blade knife in Florida if you can't carry a gun. Fact: Florida's laws regarding knives are also nuanced. While many knives can be carried openly, some "ballistic" or hidden knives are restricted. Always check local laws for specific blade types.

The Importance of Situational Awareness

Carrying a tool for self-defense is a heavy responsibility. It requires a higher level of situational awareness. In Florida's crowded outdoor spaces and urban centers, being aware of your surroundings is your first line of defense.

Avoid "tunnel vision" by scanning your environment regularly. This doesn't mean being paranoid; it means being observant. Look for exits, notice people who seem out of place, and trust your gut. Most dangerous situations can be avoided entirely if you see them coming.

We often include tools in our collections that aid in awareness and communication, such as high-output flashlights or emergency whistles. If you are putting together that part of your kit, our Flashlights collection is a smart place to explore before your next outing.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Using a firearm for self-defense is the absolute last resort. Florida has a "Stand Your Ground" law, which means you do not have a legal duty to retreat if you are in a place where you have a right to be and are not engaged in unlawful activity. However, the legal aftermath of a defensive shooting is intense and life-altering.

Understanding the "Use of Force" laws in Florida is just as important as knowing where you can carry. We recommend taking a dedicated concealed carry or self-defense law course, and our concealed carry guide is a good place to keep the fundamentals close at hand. Those classes go much deeper than a blog post can and provide specific scenarios that help you understand when the use of deadly force is legally justified.

Key Takeaway: Knowledge of the law is a vital part of your survival kit.

Conclusion

Navigating the rules of carrying a firearm in Florida requires diligence. While the state has moved toward permitless carry, it remains a concealed carry jurisdiction for the vast majority of citizens and scenarios. You cannot open carry just because you have a license. The only consistent exceptions for open carry are for those actively engaged in or traveling to and from fishing, hunting, and camping.

For everything else, a high-quality concealed carry setup is your best bet. At BattlBox, we are dedicated to providing the gear and knowledge you need to stay self-reliant. From EDC tools to wilderness survival equipment, our missions are designed to help you build a kit that performs when it matters most. Stay informed, stay practiced, and stay safe out there. A dependable fire-starting option like Zippo Typhoon Matches also belongs in a well-rounded outdoor kit.

"The best tool for survival is a prepared mind combined with the right gear."

If you're ready to level up your preparedness and get expert-curated gear delivered to your door, choose your BattlBox subscription.

FAQ

Is it legal to open carry a handgun in Florida if I have a CCW permit?

No, generally it is not legal to open carry a handgun in Florida even with a Concealed Weapon and Firearm License (CWFL). Florida law specifically requires firearms to be carried in a concealed manner in public. The only exceptions are for specific activities like hunting, fishing, or camping, or for "brief exposure" that is not intentional or threatening.

Can I open carry while hiking in Florida?

Technically, hiking is not explicitly listed as an exception in Florida Statute 790.25(3)(h). The statute specifically names fishing, hunting, and camping. Many experts suggest that if your "hike" is part of a camping trip, it may be covered, but open carrying while simply walking on a public trail could lead to legal trouble. It is always safer to carry concealed while hiking to avoid any ambiguity.

What happens if my concealed gun accidentally shows in Florida?

Florida law provides a protection for license holders regarding the "brief and unintentional" exposure of a concealed firearm. If your shirt blows up in the wind or you reach for something and your gun becomes visible, it is not a crime as long as you aren't brandishing it in a threatening manner. This protection is primarily for those who have a valid carry license.

Does Florida permitless carry allow for open carry?

No, Florida's permitless carry law, which went into effect in July 2023, only applies to concealed carry. You must still keep the firearm hidden from the ordinary sight of others. All other restrictions regarding where you can carry and the prohibition of open carry in public places remain in full effect.