So You Want a Florida CCW (But Don't Live There): The Not-So-Secret Waiting Game
Ah, the Florida sunshine, the theme parks, the...concealed carry permit that everyone seems to want? That's right, folks! The Florida non-resident CCW is a hot commodity, giving you permission to pack heat in the land of oranges and alligators (although, hopefully you won't need it for the latter). But before you stock up on sunscreen and fanny packs, there's one burning question: how long does this whole CCW thing take?
The Short Answer (with a sprinkle of maybe): It depends. Plan on somewhere between 4 to 6 weeks for the initial application process, but the state has up to 90 days to make a final decision. So, buckle up, buttercup, this might be a slower ride than a retirement community shuffleboard tournament.
The Long Answer (with a healthy dose of speculation): Imagine yourself on a virtual beach, sipping a fruity cocktail with a tiny umbrella. Now picture that same beach with the umbrella replaced by a stack of paperwork. That's kind of the vibe. The application process itself isn't too bad, but then you enter the mysterious world of government bureaucracy. Here, time becomes a slippery eel, and logic takes a permanent vacation.
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Things that might slow you down (or make you want to slow down and have another margarita):
- Background checks: The state needs to make sure you're not some wanted criminal mastermind, which is great! Just be prepared for them to dig up that parking ticket from college (hey, we've all been there).
- Fingerprint shuffle: Getting your fingerprints taken is about as exciting as watching paint dry. But hey, at least you'll have those perfect spirals on file for future CIA recruitment (maybe).
The Good News (because who doesn't love a little sunshine?): While you wait, you can spend some quality time with the lovely folks at a Florida-approved concealed carry class (which, by the way, only takes a few hours). This is your chance to learn all about gun safety and the laws of packing heat in the Sunshine State.
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So, how long does it really take? Honestly, it's a crapshoot. Some folks get their permits in a flash, while others get stuck in permit purgatory. The best advice? Be patient, grasshopper. And maybe channel that nervous energy into perfecting your beach bod for your eventual Florida victory lap.
How To FAQs:
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How to Apply for a Florida Non-Resident CCW: Check out the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services website for all the official details.
How Long Does the Class Take: The class itself is typically around 3 hours, but hey, who knows, you might make some new gun-loving friends!
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How Much Does it Cost: Fees vary, but expect to shell out some cash for the class, fingerprinting, application, and permit itself.
How Do I Know When My Permit Arrives: The state will contact you by mail with the good news (or the bad news, but let's stay positive).
How Long is the Permit Valid For: Enjoy your newfound packing power for a cool 7 years before the renewal process.
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