Florida Gun Law

[Spencer08]

Hello, I am 18 about to be 19 and I attend college at FSU. I am studying criminology because I really want to be a police officer. My question is this, what are the laws on a say 19 year old having a handgun in florida? Can I buy a handgun and can I keep it in my car and house? I am not looking to carry it on my person I just want it for protection, because as some of you may know alot of crime happens in Tallahassee and recently alot on campus. The LCSO and the TPD are great departments but I would feel safe with a little added protection. I have shot guns before and no I am not a professional, but I really would love to start shooting at a range to get better. So what do I need to do to get a handgun or is it not possible until I am 21? Thank you very much!!!!

[rh230]

I'm not from Florida, but I believe you need to be 21 to own (purchase) a handgun.

[Spencer08]

Alright thank you very much. Any other responses would be great. I really want to start shooting and getting better!!!!

[Nole795]

Firearms at FSU Campus is a big no-no. Not only is it illegal but you will get expelled.

My recommendation to you is worry about your studies. When you hit the police academy, it is easier to learn from scratch from a certified instructor because you have no bad habits to break.

Good luck and go seminoles.

[Spencer08]

Yea go NOLES!! But I didnt plan on taking it on campus because I know its a bad idea they stressed that at oreintation. I never drive my truck to campus because it sucks to park, I just have my girlfriend drop me off. What I really want to do is have it to keep in the house mostly. We have had the front office of the complex drop off alot of notes about not walking by yourself at night and things like that. GO NOLES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Roger Dat]

What was posted above is dead on. Police Academy instructors prefer those who have never shot before. Much easier to teach. Focus on school.

[DeltaV]

If you want a firearm for home defense, get a shotgun. A handgun's only benefit is that it is small enough to wear on your person. It would never be my choice for a defensive weapon if I had access to a shotgun or rifle.

You have to be 21 in order to purchase a handgun, however the law does not prohibit you from owning one that has been given to you. It is, however, illegal for someone to purchase a firearm for someone who is not authorized to purchase one on their own.

It's also a felony to possess a firearm at a school in Florida (including a postsecondary institution), and that includes keeping a firearm in a vehicle at a school if the school has a written policy prohibiting it.

[Spencer08]

Alright guys thanks for yhe replys. As I stated before I dont plan on taking the gun on campus because I never take my truck to school anyways. I want to to keep at home. But again thank you for the info!!