Florida Statewide Rule

Florida Vehicle Firearm Carry Rights Statewide

Few RestrictionsApplies statewide across Florida (2026)

Key Facts

Permit Authority: FS 790.25(5) permits vehicle carry without a license at age 18+
Requirement: Firearm must be securely encased or not readily accessible
Requirement: Glove compartments and snapped holsters qualify as securely encased
Preemption: FS 790.33 preempts all local vehicle-carry ordinances
Permit Authority: Permitless concealed carry under FS 790.01 also covers vehicles

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: Florida Senate

Summary

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.

(4) POSSESSION IN PRIVATE CONVEYANCE.- (a) Notwithstanding s. 790.01, a person 18 years of age or older who is in lawful possession of a handgun or other weapon may possess such a handgun or weapon within the interior of a private conveyance if the handgun or weapon is securely encased or otherwise not readily accessible for immediate use. A person who possesses a handgun or other weapon as authorized under this paragraph may not carry the handgun or weapon on his or her person.

Source: Florida SenateView official code

Full Breakdown

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.

Violations & Penalties

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a concealed weapon license to keep a gun in my car in Florida?

No. FS 790.25(5) lets any eligible adult 18 or older carry a firearm in their private vehicle so long as it is securely encased or not readily accessible.

Does a glove compartment count as 'securely encased'?

Yes. FS 790.001(17) defines securely encased to include glove compartments (locked or unlocked), snapped holsters, zippered cases, gun cases, and similar containers.

Can a Florida city ban guns in vehicles parked on public property?

No. Firearms are preempted to the state under FS 790.33, so cities and counties cannot impose stricter vehicle-carry rules than state law.

Sources

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.