Florida Statute 790.25(5) allows any law-abiding person 18 or older to possess a concealed firearm in a private vehicle for self-defense, provided the firearm is securely encased or not readily accessible for immediate use, regardless of any concealed-carry license.
Section 790.25(5), Florida Statutes, expressly authorizes any person 18 years of age or older to possess a concealed firearm or other weapon for self-defense or other lawful purpose within the interior of a private conveyance, without a concealed weapon license, so long as the firearm is securely encased or otherwise not readily accessible for immediate use. 'Securely encased' is defined in FS 790.001(17) to include glove compartments (whether or not locked), snapped holsters, gun cases, zippered cases, or boxes. Combined with FS 790.33 firearms preemption, this statute applies uniformly statewide and bars local ordinances from imposing stricter vehicle-carry rules. Permitless concealed carry under FS 790.01 (effective July 1, 2023) further allows eligible adults to carry loaded handguns on their person inside vehicles.
Carrying a firearm in a vehicle outside these parameters by an ineligible person, or in violation of FS 790.01, can constitute a first or second degree misdemeanor or third degree felony depending on circumstances.
See how Sarasota's firearms in vehicles rules stack up against other locations.
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