Can Security Guards Open Carry in Florida?
The question is not as simple as one might expect.
Florida to be a location with extremely specific rules when it comes to open carry, armed security licensing and when one can legally carry a firearm while on duty.
Whether you’re interested in becoming a security guard or are a business owner looking to hire security services, it’s important to understand these laws.
Florida Gun Laws and Open Carry
Florida Open Carry of Firearms
Generally, the open carry of firearms is not allowed in Florida.
Laws regulating the open carrying of handguns differ throughout the country and in many states people can openly carry firearms when out in public.
Unlike some other states, which generally allow citizens to carry handguns openly with a permit, Florida law prohibits them from doing so because they find it threatening to others.
There are limited narrow exceptions, such as for hunting, fishing or camping.
Instead, Florida is a concealed carry state, which requires private citizens who wish to carry a handgun in public to obtain the concealed weapon license and not display their firearm.
Security Guard Licensing in Florida
Gun-carrying is not universal among security guards. The state divides licensing into two broad categories:
- Class D License – Unarmed security guards. Its holders are trained to monitor, report suspicious activities and fulfil security roles unarmed.
- Class G License– Needed for armed security officers. It allows a guard to carry but only under certain circumstances and only while on the job.
To obtain a Class G license, guards will have to :
- Satisfactorily complete a 28 hour state approved firearms training course given by a licensed Firearm Instructor.
- Cear background check and all other qualifications.
- Complete continued education and renewal requirements to keep their license.
Are Security Guards Allowed to Open Carry in Florida?
Here is the straight answer: Security guards in Florida are not allowed to open carry like regular civilians.
Armed security officers — who hold a Class G license — may possess and use the firearm as part of their professional duties as security officers, but that is based on their specific assignment.
When armed security guards are appropriately licensed, they may carry a firearm in a holster as part of their uniform fit.
Rather, it’s a sanctioned and licensed mode of carrying permitted only under state security laws and employer policies.
- On duty with a Class G license → Carrying is permitted.
- Off duty or without the proper license → Carrying a firearm openly is illegal.
On-Duty vs. Off-Duty Rules
It’s important to separate what guards can do at work from what they can do on their personal time:
- On Duty: An armed security guard may carry a firearm in accordance with their license, training, and company policies.
- Off Duty: That same guard must follow the same firearm laws as any other Florida resident. Their Class G license does not give them blanket authority to carry outside of work.
This means that unless a guard also has a personal concealed weapons permit, they cannot legally carry a gun while off the clock.
Penalties for Violations
Carrying a firearm without the proper license or outside of legal limits can lead to serious consequences. These include:
- Criminal charges that may result in fines or jail time.
- Revocation of security licenses, ending the ability to work in the industry.
- Employer penalties, including lawsuits or liability for allowing unlicensed activity.
Both guards and employers must take compliance seriously to avoid these risks.
Why Proper Training Matters
Training is at the heart of Florida’s licensing system. Armed security guards go through specialized courses that cover:
- Firearm safety and use.
- Legal restrictions and responsibilities.
- De-escalation tactics and professional judgment.
This training ensures that when a guard carries a firearm, they understand both the power and the responsibility that comes with it. For clients hiring security services, knowing that guards are trained and licensed provides peace of mind.
FAQs About Security Guards and Open Carry in Florida
Do all security guards in Florida carry guns?
No. Many guards are unarmed and work under a Class D license. Only those with a Class G license may carry firearms.
Can a security guard carry concealed off duty with a Class G license?
Not automatically. Off duty, a guard must have a separate concealed weapon permit just like any other citizen.
Are pepper spray, batons, or tasers considered weapons?
Yes, and security guards must be trained and authorized to carry them. Each tool has its own rules for use in Florida.
Conclusion
So, can security guards open carry in Florida? No—not in the same way that civilians in some states can. Open carry is not legal in Florida. However, licensed armed security officers with a Class G license are permitted to carry firearms while on duty, in accordance with strict state rules and training requirements.
For anyone considering hiring a security company, always check that guards are properly licensed and trained. And for those entering the security field, make sure you understand the licensing process and the responsibilities that come with carrying a firearm in Florida.
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