Do I still need a CCW permit?
Why You Should Still Get a CCW Permit in Florida Before Carrying
By John Pound
“The gun is the great equalizer. It gives a home-bound grandparent the strength to repel a young attacker.” — U.S. Supreme Court Justice Joseph Story
Florida shook things up in 2023 with permitless concealed carry. It sounds empowering—and in many ways, it is. But the headlines don’t tell the whole story.
If you want to carry confidently, safely, and legally across state lines, there’s one thing you should still do: take a certified Florida concealed carry class and get your CCW permit.
Let’s look at why that decision still matters—and how it could protect you legally, financially, and even physically.
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What Permitless Carry Really Means in Florida
Florida’s permitless carry law, effective July 1, 2023, allows legal adults to carry concealed without a license. However, this only applies if you:
• Are 21 or older
• Are not a convicted felon
• Can legally own a firearm
• Fully conceal your firearm while carrying
But it’s critical to know what this law doesn’t cover:
• You can’t carry in restricted areas like schools, courthouses, or certain private properties
• You get zero training, unless you take a class
• There’s no reciprocity with other states
Taking a Florida concealed carry class at CCW Ocala can fill in those gaps—and protect you from the pitfalls of uninformed carry.
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Top 5 Reasons to Get a Florida Concealed Carry Permit
1. Carry Confidently Across State Lines
Your Florida concealed carry permit is recognized in 30+ other states. Traveling for work, vacation, or emergencies? You need your permit to carry legally outside Florida.
Permitless carry laws only apply within state borders. If you’re caught carrying in another state without proper documentation, you could face criminal charges.
The solution? Enroll in a Florida concealed carry class at CCW Ocala and get your license with reciprocity protections.
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2. Training = Legal Protection
In the eyes of the law, lack of knowledge is not a valid excuse. A certified concealed carry class teaches you:
• Where and when you can legally carry
• Florida’s use-of-force and self-defense laws
• How to legally interact with police while armed
• What to do (and what NOT to do) after a defensive shooting
USCCA.com emphasizes the importance of legal education and situational awareness—both of which you’ll gain from a proper class.
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3. Skip the Waiting Period on Gun Purchases
Florida law requires a 3-day waiting period on handgun purchases unless you have a valid concealed carry permit.
Take the class. Get the permit. Buy your firearm without delay.
It’s one more reason why completing a Florida concealed carry class at CCW Ocala is a smart, time-saving move.
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4. Trained Carriers Are Safer Carriers
Carrying a firearm without training is like getting behind the wheel without ever taking a driving test. Dangerous—for you and everyone around you.
Our courses at CCW Ocala go beyond the basics. You’ll build:
• Confidence in your firearm handling
• Judgment under pressure
• A solid understanding of Florida law
And let’s be honest—if you ever have to defend yourself, training shows the court you took responsibility seriously.
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5. Membership & Legal Defense Coverage (Like USCCA) Often Require a Permit
Want legal protection in the event of a self-defense incident? Organizations like the USCCA provide coverage, legal teams, and more—but many of their services are only available to permit holders.
If you’re going to carry, carry with protection. That starts with taking your Florida concealed carry class and getting certified.
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Why It All Comes Back to One Smart Choice
Yes, you can legally carry in Florida without a permit. But should you?
Ask yourself:
• Do I know the legal consequences of carrying in the wrong place?
• Would I be confident explaining my use of force in court?
• Do I travel to other states?
• Do I want faster access to buying a firearm if I need one quickly?
If any of those answers are “yes,” then your next step is clear: enroll in a Florida concealed carry class at CCW Ocala.
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Ready to Get Your Permit? We’ll Help You Do It Right.
At CCW Ocala, we provide professional, state-certified concealed carry classes for law-abiding citizens like you. Our classes are small, hands-on, and focused on real-world readiness.
• No fluff.
• No confusion.
• Just straight-up legal training and practical firearms education from certified instructors.
Sign up today and get the permit—and peace of mind—you deserve.
