Is Body Armor Legal in Florida? (2026)
It depends. In Florida, body armor is restricted. In Florida, it is generally legal for civilians to purchase and possess body armor, but its use during the commission of certain crimes can lead to enhanced penalties..
Key facts
- Status
- Restricted
- Permit required
- No
- Jurisdiction
- Florida
- Last reviewed
- 2026-04-09
Body Armor laws in Florida
Florida Statute 790.27 generally outlines enhanced penalties for individuals who possess or use body armor during the commission of a felony or violent crime. While the statute does not prohibit the purchase or possession of body armor itself, it makes its use or possession during a crime a significant aggravating factor. Specifically, Florida Statute 790.27(1) states that it is a felony of the third degree for any person to wear or possess body armor while committing a felony. If the felony committed is a violent felony, the crime is reclassified to the second degree. Further, Florida Statute 790.27(2) addresses the unlawful use of body armor, making it a felony of the second degree for any person to use body armor to resist arrest or during the commission of a violent crime. These provisions highlight that while the item itself isn't illegal to own, its context of use is critical. There are no specific state-level regulations in Florida that prohibit felons from purchasing or possessing body armor, unlike many other states. However, federal law (18 U.S.C. § 931) prohibits individuals convicted of a violent felony from purchasing or possessing body armor. Therefore, while Florida state law doesn't explicitly restrict felons, federal law would apply, making it illegal for violent felons in Florida to possess body armor. For non-felons, there are no state permitting requirements or background checks to purchase body armor in Florida.
Frequently asked questions
Is body armor legal in Florida for travelers?
For travelers visiting Florida, body armor is currently restricted. Florida Statute 790.27 generally outlines enhanced penalties for individuals who possess or use body armor during the commission of a felony or violent crime. While the statute does not prohibit the purchase or possession of body armor itself, it makes its use or possession during a crime a significant aggravating factor. Specifically, Florida Statute 790.27(1) states that it is a felony of the third degree for any person to wear or possess body armor while committing a felony. If the felony committed is a violent felony, the crime is reclassified to the second degree. Further, Florida Statute 790.27(2) addresses the unlawful use of body armor, making it a felony of the second degree for any person to use body armor to resist arrest or during the commission of a violent crime. These provisions highlight that while the item itself isn't illegal to own, its context of use is critical. There are no specific state-level regulations in Florida that prohibit felons from purchasing or possessing body armor, unlike many other states. However, federal law (18 U.S.C. § 931) prohibits individuals convicted of a violent felony from purchasing or possessing body armor. Therefore, while Florida state law doesn't explicitly restrict felons, federal law would apply, making it illegal for violent felons in Florida to possess body armor. For non-felons, there are no state permitting requirements or background checks to purchase body armor in Florida.
Do I need a permit for body armor in Florida?
Florida does not specifically require a permit for body armor, though general regulations apply.
Can I transport body armor through Florida?
Transport laws for body armor in Florida depend on the specific item and your route. Generally, transport is allowed if you comply with state regulations. Always check states you pass through.
What are the penalties for body armor violations in Florida?
Penalties for body armor violations in Florida vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.