Expert: n/a - 12/28/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hi Don, I have a NYS pistol permit and I'm relocating for work to FL.  Not sure exactly what I need to do to transport my gun to FL (it's a walther p22) and to gain a permit in FL, so I'm legal.  I've heard that pistol permits can be applied for in NH (I think this was the state) and then work for multiple states to include FL.  Any advise you can give is greatly appreciated!
Thanks, Kathy

ANSWER: Hi Kathy, You have a NYS permit and you want to get multiple licenses to work in different states/transport.  I have lots of information for you.  First you can go online to FL. Dept. of Agriculture website, there you can request to have the firearm permit application mailed to you. Apply for a non-resident permit and change it over when you relocate, You must send a copy of any firearm safety training certificate or DD-214.  FL. does not register weapons like NY does. Then you can go to Centre County PA sheriff website download an application for a PA. non-resident firearm permit. Just send them a copy of your NYS firearm permit, state ID with matching address and $26 with a self stamped and return addressed envelope with no firearm training certificate needed.
Then you have NH non-resident firearm permit just send them a copy of your NYS permit and $20 they will issue you a NH firearm permit.
Then you have Virginia non-resident firearm permit go to VA State Police website and download an application you will need to get your FBI fingerprints done at a local precinct or Security Firm, this permit along with PA and NH is a fast process. Then you have CT. non-resident firearm permit, you can request a permit package mailed to you on their website CT firearm permit.  They also have a UTAH non-resident permit but you must take their class in order to qualify. They give this class in different states but I'm not sure where in NY but if your ever in Virginia D & D Security Academy in Alexandria, VA does it all year round. Utah permit may cover more states than FL. and VA but each cover a state that the other doesn't.
They also have a  Texas non-resident permit but you must qualify in Texas once a year in order to keep it.  As long as you are crossing states that have reciprocity with at least one of the permits you hold you may transport a weapon concealed but you must comply with that states firearm laws.  If you are crossing a state like NJ then you must lock the firearm in the trunk unloaded and separate from any ammo.  If it's not going to hurt your purse I would get all the firearm permits listed above except Texas.  And purchase me a new Beretta PX4 Storm when I get to Florida :-)  

Good Luck and Enjoy Florida.

I lived in Boynton Beach, FL. for a short time.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Don, thanks for the quick response! Wow, lots of great information.  I have not taken a firearm safety course and won't be able to before I relocate.  A couple more questions, sorry!

In order to get my gun to FL and get a permit in FL, I need to follow all directions you provided (excluding TX), is this correct?  I really only need the permit in NY and FL (not all the other states unless it's easiest to do it this way to get the FL permit), but need a way to transport the gun legally.

I don't plan on driving to FL, I have a relocation company that will be packing me and I will fly to FL.  Can I bring the pistol on the airlines?

Thanks so much for your help!  Boynton Beach is awesome.  I will be in Boca!  I'm so looking forward to ocean and nice weather!

I just looked at the Beretta you mentioned--nice!!  Very industrial - lol!  I just got my little pea shooter for protection:)

Thanks,
Kathy

Answer
NO, You can't bring a weapon on an airline.  You must call the airline in advance and get special instructions.  They will pack it and store it for you.  Some airlines stop accepting firearms so you better check which airline you are using.  

You don't need any permit to get a FL. firearm License you just need a safety course. Maybe you can use your NYS permit instead of the safety course check it out online you can call them and ask.  Florida Dept. of Agriculture.com

Florida is very nice especially Boca Raton.

Good Luck