Florida’s Constitutional Carry Law

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What HB 543 Really Means for Gun Owners

By Management | Tactical Edge Blog

In 2023, Florida made headlines when it passed House Bill 543, commonly referred to as the “Constitutional Carry” law. Touted by supporters as a victory for Second Amendment rights and by critics as a risky deregulation, the bill dramatically changed how residents—and even nonresidents—can legally carry firearms in the Sunshine State.

But what does HB 543 actually mean for you? Can anyone now carry a concealed weapon without a permit? What are the risks, and where are the lines of legality drawn?

In this investigative dive, we break down the facts, dispel the myths, and give you the context that every responsible gun owner needs.

What Is House Bill 543? A Closer Look at Florida’s “Permitless Carry”

Enacted on July 1, 2023, HB 543 allows eligible individuals to carry a concealed firearm without a Concealed Weapon License (CWL)—as long as they meet certain legal requirements. This law positions Florida among a growing list of states that have adopted forms of permitless or “constitutional” carry.

But while the headlines suggest broad freedom, the reality is more nuanced.

“Permitless carry doesn’t mean lawless carry.”
– Herfel Torres, Instructor, Valortec Training

Two Paths, Two Responsibilities: Licensed vs. Unlicensed Carry

🔹 1. Licensed Carry: The CWL Still Has a Purpose

Although you can now carry without a permit, the Concealed Weapon License (CWL) remains highly relevant and beneficial, especially for those who carry regularly or travel across state lines.

✅ Advantages of CWL:

  • Reciprocity: A Florida CWL is recognized in 37 states, giving you legal carry rights beyond state borders.

  • Training Assurance: CWL holders must complete a certified training course, promoting responsible firearm handling.

  • Location Access: Some private businesses and venues give more leniency to licensed carriers.

  • Expedited Purchase Process: CWL holders are often exempt from the 3-day waiting period for firearm purchases.

⚠️ Drawbacks:

  • Requires fees, fingerprinting, a background check, and a formal application.

  • Denied to individuals with certain criminal or mental health histories.

🔍 Real-World Scenario: James, a traveling sales rep based in Orlando, frequently visits clients in Georgia, Alabama, and Texas. His CWL allows him to carry legally in each of those states—something permitless carry does not allow.

🔹 2. Unlicensed Carry: What HB 543 Actually Allows

Under HB 543, any legal adult (21+) who is not prohibited by law—such as a convicted felon, adjudicated mentally ill individual, or domestic violence offender—can carry a concealed firearm without a CWL.

This includes:

  • Residents and nonresidents of Florida

  • Individuals who pass a background check when purchasing a firearm

  • Concealed carry only (open carry remains illegal in most situations)

✅ Pros of Unlicensed Carry:

  • No permit needed: No application, no waiting.

  • Faster access to your right to self-defense.

  • Inclusion of nonresidents, provided they meet eligibility.

⚠️ Important Caveats:

  • Identification Required: If stopped by law enforcement, you must present valid ID upon request.

  • Restricted Locations: Schools, government buildings, and other sensitive locations are still off-limits.

  • Lack of Training: No legal requirement to demonstrate firearm proficiency.

🔍 Case Study: Maria, a 24-year-old Miami resident, purchased her first firearm after a local burglary wave. Thanks to HB 543, she began carrying without a CWL. But during a tense encounter at a gas station, she realized she had no understanding of “use-of-force” laws—and could’ve landed in legal trouble without even drawing her weapon.

The Hidden Danger: Confidence Without Competence

One of the biggest concerns among trainers and law enforcement isn’t the expansion of rights—it’s the erosion of readiness.

“The weapon you carry is only as effective as your ability to use it wisely.”
– Luis Jimenez, Law Enforcement Instructor, Valortec

With the barrier to carry now lowered, many gun owners skip essential training. This creates a dangerous gap: more people carrying guns, but fewer people trained to make life-or-death decisions under pressure.

Legal Pitfalls: Where HB 543 Doesn’t Protect You

Just because you’re allowed to carry doesn’t mean you’re immune to legal repercussions.

⚠️ You Can Still Be Arrested If:

  • You carry into prohibited areas (schools, courtrooms, police stations).

  • You fail to present ID when asked by law enforcement.

  • You brandish your firearm or use it irresponsibly—even in self-defense, if the response is deemed excessive.

  • You have a firearm in your car without securing it properly, especially around minors.

Training: The Missing Piece in Permitless Carry

We’ve seen a 30% increase in students asking about carry laws since HB 543 passed—but many still believe training is optional.

It’s not.

While not legally required for unlicensed carry, firearms training is your only defense against panic, poor judgment, and costly mistakes—both on the street and in court.

🧠 Fact: In Florida, improper use of a firearm—even in self-defense—can result in felony charges if it violates use-of-force statutes.

Final Word: Rights Come with Responsibility

House Bill 543 marks a pivotal shift in Florida’s approach to self-defense, but it’s not a free pass. It’s an invitation—an invitation to be prepared, knowledgeable, and truly responsible.

Whether you choose to carry with or without a license, your best weapon is education. Know the law. Train for the worst day of your life. And never assume that carrying a gun makes you safer unless you’re equipped with the judgment to match it.

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