Florida is one of the largest gun markets in the country. Florida adds several state-specific requirements on top of the federal baseline that every Florida FFL dealer needs to understand.

Florida's Three-Day Waiting Period

Florida law imposes a three-day waiting period on handgun purchases, running from the time of sale. The firearm cannot be transferred to the buyer until three days have elapsed.

The waiting period has exceptions. Florida's waiting period does not apply to buyers who hold a valid Florida Concealed Weapon or Firearm License (CWFL). Verify the license is current and document the license number on every CWFL exemption transfer.

Florida Background Check Requirements

Florida operates its own background check system — the FDLE Firearm Purchase Program — which incorporates the federal NICS check. The Florida system may return different results than a federal-only NICS check due to Florida-specific disqualifiers.

Form 4473 Compliance in Florida

Florida's additional requirements create more complexity in the transfer process. The interaction between Florida's waiting period, the CWFL exemption, and the NICS process creates specific documentation requirements that need to be captured correctly on the Form 4473.

Document the CWFL exemption clearly. When you transfer without the waiting period because the buyer holds a CWFL, document the license number and expiration date with the Form 4473.

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