Open Carry versus Concealed Carry Permit

Open Carry versus Concealed Carry Permit

Since it became legal to open carry in the state of Florida, people are still unaware of the major differences and the pros/cons.

I will take my turn at explaining it.

Florida allows both permitless concealed carry and open carry for eligible individuals (21+, legally allowed to own guns) as of late 2023/late 2025 changes, but open carry has strict rules, generally allowing brief, non-threatening displays in a holster, while concealed carry remains an option, though the new laws effectively make carrying without a permit legal if you meet permit qualifications. The biggest difference is visibility: concealed means hidden, while open carry means visible (usually in a holster), with many restrictions on locations like government buildings, schools, and some private businesses.

Concealed Carry (CCW) Permits & Permitless Carry:

• What it is: Carrying a handgun hidden from plain sight (in a purse, pocket, or under clothing).
• Permitless Carry: Since July 1, 2023, eligible individuals (meeting permit requirements) can carry concealed without a permit.
• Permit Benefits: A permit still offers reciprocity in other states, faster background checks, and prevents needing to carry ID at all times.

Open Carry (Post-2025 Legalization):

• What it is: Carrying a firearm visible to the public, typically in a holster on the waistband or shoulder.
• Key Rule: It must not be intentionally displayed in an angry or threatening manner, only for lawful self-defense, and usually involves a holster.
• New Status: A 2025 court ruling effectively struck down the open carry ban, leading law enforcement to stop enforcing it, making it legal in most public places.

Key Differences & Restrictions:

• Visibility: Concealed is hidden; Open Carry is visible (in a holster).
• Locations: Both are banned in places like courthouses, schools, polling places, airports (sterile areas), and government buildings.
• Private Property: Businesses can still prohibit both open and concealed carry on their premises.
• Activity Exceptions: Open carry is permitted when fishing, hunting, camping, or at shooting ranges.

Finally, You can now carry a handgun concealed or openly in Florida without a permit if you're eligible, but open carry comes with rules about presentation (holster, non-threatening) and major location restrictions, while concealed carry (permitless or with a permit) is generally less conspicuous but still subject to location bans. One thing you can do in either way is to have insurance to cover you in the event something tragic happens. I invite you to take a look at USSCA Insurance.