So You Want to Be Florida's Newest James Bond (On a Budget)? The Lowdown on Sunshine State Gun Licenses
Let's face it, Florida is practically a character in itself. Alligators roam freely (or so every travel blog ever written would have you believe), retirees flock south for eternal sunshine, and theme parks crank out enough sugar to rival Willy Wonka's factory. But what about guns? If you're itching to become a licensed Floridian firearm owner, then buckle up, buttercup, because we're here to break down the cost of this not-so-sweet science.
The Sunshine State's CPL: Not Exactly a License to Thrill
First things first, in Florida, you're not technically getting a "gun license." Instead, you'll be applying for a Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP), which allows you to, well, conceal a weapon. But fear not, aspiring secret agent! This nifty permit also qualifies as your green light to purchase a firearm from a licensed dealer.
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The Moolah Breakdown: How Much Does This Bad Boy Cost?
Alright, alright, let's get to the nitty-gritty. The cost of your CWP depends on a few factors, but generally falls somewhere in the $100 to $120 range. Here's a quick financial forecast:
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- State Fees: This one's pretty standard. Uncle Sam will set you back around $97, which covers the application and fingerprint processing.
- County Fees: Ah, the joys of bureaucracy! Some counties tack on a convenience fee (because apparently processing paperwork is a herculean effort), which can range from $12 to $22.
So, How Much is This Gonna Cost Me Really?
Do some quick math (or whip out your phone's calculator, we won't judge) and you're looking at a total cost of around $119 to $142.
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| How Much Is A Gun License In Florida |
Bonus Round: Saving a Few Bucks
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For the budget-minded Bond wannabes, there are a couple of ways to shave a few bucks off your CWP:
- Skip the Expedited Service: Unless you're in a real hurry to become Florida's newest licensed defender, opt for the standard processing time. The wait might be a tad longer, but your wallet will thank you.
- Shop Around for County Fees: Believe it or not, some counties are more generous than others when it comes to these pesky convenience fees. Do a little online digging and see if you can find a county with a lower fee.
How To FAQs on Getting Your Florida CWP
- How To Apply: Head to your local Tax Collector's office. You can usually find an application online or fill one out in person.
- How To Take the Class: Florida requires a four-hour course on gun safety and the law. Shop around for instructors - some may offer discounts for groups or online courses.
- How To Get Fingerprinted: The Tax Collector's office will usually take care of this for you, but there may be a fee.
- How Long Does it Take: Processing times can vary, but generally take 60 to 90 days.
- How Long is it Valid? Your CWP is good for five years and can be renewed by mail.
There you have it! Now you're armed with the knowledge (and hopefully the budget) to become a licensed gun owner in the sunshine state. Just remember, with great power comes great responsibility (and maybe a holster for that new sidearm).
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