Permitless carry is here. Do you still need a license?

Under s. 790.01(1), you may carry a concealed weapon or firearm if you are licensed or you are not licensed but meet the eligibility criteria in s. 790.06(2)(a)-(f) and (i)-(n), (3) and (10). Carrying a concealed firearm without meeting those criteria is a third-degree felony. This took effect July 1, 2023 (HB 543, ch. 2023-18).

Why the license still matters

Other states: a Florida license is honored in Florida's reciprocity states (FDACS list). Permitless carry does not travel.
No 3-day wait: the waiting period does not apply to a license holder buying a firearm (s. 790.0655(2)(a)).
Easy proof of eligibility during a law-enforcement encounter.

Questions folks ask

Is the 3-day waiting period waived for license holders?

Yes. Section 790.0655(2)(a) says the waiting period does not apply when the purchaser holds a concealed weapons or firearms license.