Acceptable documentation of firearms training

Approved training courses

To qualify for a concealed weapon license, Florida law requires you to present proof of proficiency with a firearm. A copy of a Certificate of Completion or similar document from any of the following courses or classes is accepted:

• Any hunter education or safety course approved by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission or a similar agency in another state;

• Any National Rifle Association firearms training or safety course;

• Any firearms safety or training course or class available to the general public offered by a law enforcement agency, university, university, or private or public institution or organization or firearms training school, using instructors certified by the National Rifle Association, the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission, or the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services;

• Any law enforcement firearms security or training class or course offered to security guards, investigators, special agents, or any division or subdivision of law enforcement or security forces;

Any firearm training Florida safety or training course or class conducted by a state-certified instructor or a National Rifle Association-certified instructor.

Training certificate requirements

The copy of the training certificate/document must be clear and legible and must include:

• Your name,

• The name of your instructor,

• The qualifications/credentials of your instructor (National Rifle Association Instructor, Law Enforcement Firearms Instructor, Florida State Licensed Class “K” Firearms Instructor, etc.) and

• Your instructor’s license/certification number.
   

For active military and veterans

Active duty military personnel may submit copies of any of the following documents confirming experience with a firearm acquired while in service:

• Military orders including a letter of call to active duty;

• A declaration of military service that identifies you and provides your date of entry into your current active duty period (must be signed by, or under the direction of, your assistant, staff officer, or commander of your unit or higher headquarters)

• Former military personnel can submit a DD 214 form that reflects honorable discharge from military service.

• Other acceptable forms of training documentation

• Documentary evidence of experience with a firearm obtained through participation in an organized shooting competition is also accepted.