Legal Templates

Florida Firearm Bill of Sale

Use our attorney-drafted firearm bill of sale form to transfer gun ownership in Florida.

Updated March 14, 2023 | Legally reviewed by Susan Chai, Esq.

Selling a firearm in Florida requires being aware of the laws in your state. You could face serious penalties if you violate the rules for purchasing and selling firearms.

You will also want to complete a Florida firearm bill of sale to protect yourself and have a record of the transfer. 

Table of Contents

What Is a Florida Firearm Bill of Sale?

A Florida firearm bill of sale is a form a seller and buyer use to document a gun transfer in Florida.

The bill of sale provides evidence of the firearm’s legal owner.

What Are the Requirements for Selling a Firearm in Florida?

Florida has strict requirements for firearm sales.

While this state isn’t one of the most limiting, it is important to consider the laws in place to avoid potential issues.

Private Parties Selling Firearms in Florida

You can conduct a private gun sale in Florida, but you must ensure the buyer is eligible and can legally complete the purchase. The buyer must be at least 21 years old and a state resident.  

You must provide the buyer with a written warning about storing the firearm safely, and you cannot sell to minors (Florida Statutes Section 790.175). 

While licensed dealers must complete background checks, private sellers do not have to do this.

However, you must verify that the person is not prohibited from owning a firearm by state or federal law. 

Does the Law in Florida Require a Firearm Bill of Sale?

You do not have to create a Florida firearm bill of sale, but it is a good idea to do so anyway.

It provides a record and proof of the sale. 

Gun Inheritance Laws in Florida

You can pass a firearm to someone through your will or a gun trust in Florida without restrictions.

The only exception is that someone prohibited by state or federal law from owning a firearm will not be able to receive the firearm. 

Documents Needed to Complete a Firearm Bill of Sale in Florida

Because there are no legal requirements for a Florida firearm bill of sale, it is up to you to ensure you have all the details necessary to make it valid as proof of the transaction.

You will want the following to complete a Florida firearm transfer form:

  • Buyer’s name, address, and contact details
  • Statement from the buyer that they are not prohibited from owning the firearm
  • Statement that you provided the sales and storage warning
  • Your name, address, and contact details
  • The firearm’s make, model, serial number, and list of features
  • The sales details, including price, date, and other important information

Additional Florida Gun Laws

Who Cannot Purchase a Firearm in Florida?

Federal law and Florida law states that the following people do not have the right to own or possess a firearm and cannot legally purchase one (Florida Statutes Section 790.064) :

  • Convicted felons
  • Persons with a legal order of mental illness
  • Persons convicted of domestic violence
  • Persons with substance addiction
  • Fugitives from justice 
  • Illegal aliens
  • Military members with a dishonorable discharge
  • Persons subject to an active protective order
  • Persons with current pending felony criminal charges
  • Persons under the age of 24 who have juvenile charges equal to adult felonies

Does Florida Have a Waiting Period for Firearm Sales?

Florida requires a three (3) day waiting period between the firearm purchase and delivery (Florida Constitution, Article 1, Section 8). The three days do not include weekends or state holidays.

If a person has a concealed carry permit, the waiting period does not apply. 

Can You Buy a Firearm in Florida Without Registering It?

The state does not require registering firearms when you purchase them. 

Does a Firearm Bill of Sale Have to Be Notarized in Florida?

You have no legal obligation to create a Florida firearm bill of sale, so there is no requirement to notarize it.

However, notarization may be a good idea if you do not know the buyer or have concerns about potential issues in the future concerning the sale. 

Is a Record of Firearms Sent to Police in Florida?

The state does not allow the state or governmental agency, including the police, to keep records of privately owned firearm owners (Florida Statutes  Section 790.335(2)).

Concealed and Open Carry Laws in Florida

How to Apply to Carry a Firearm in Florida

In Florida, you can apply for a concealed carry license with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (Florida Statutes Section 790.06).

To secure a license, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Be at least 21 years old
  • Be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident of the U.S.
  • Be free of physical or mental conditions that would make you unable to handle a firearm safely
  • Not be ineligible to possess a firearm
  • Affirm you wish to carry for lawful self-defense
  • Prove firearm competency by completing a safety or training program

The department issues licenses valid for seven years if you meet all the requirements. You must ensure you renew when it expires.

Florida Firearm Reciprocity

Florida does recognize permits from other states if they meet specific requirements (Florida Statutes Section 790.015).

A person must be at least 21 years old, a United States citizen or permanent resident, and have a valid license issued in their state of residence.

Florida also recognizes permits for military members and law enforcement. 

How to Write a Firearm Bill of Sale in Florida

Creating a Florida firearm bill of sale offers you legal protection and proof you sold the firearm.

When creating a Florida firearm transfer form, make sure to do the following steps:

Step 1 – State Laws

Familiarize yourself with Florida firearm sales laws. 

Step 2 – Background Check

Conduct a background check on the buyer or secure a recently completed background check from the buyer.

Step 3 – Buyer Meeting

Meet the buyer and conduct the transaction in person.

Step 4 – Completion

Complete the Florida firearm bill of sale.

Summary

Ensuring you have a Florida firearm bill of sale is not a legal requirement, but it is a smart idea.

You can protect yourself from potential legal issues by having this document.

Get an attorney-drafted form from Legal Templates to make the process simple and fast. 

Florida Firearm Bill of Sale Sample

Below is an example of what a Florida firearm bill of sale looks like.

florida firearm bill of sale