Carrying a concealed firearm brings serious responsibilities – especially when you’re behind the wheel. In a recent segment for WKMG News 6 ClickOrlando, Traffic Safety Expert and former state trooper Steve Montiero, better known as Trooper Steve, walked through the laws, best practices, and real-world advice for gun owners in Florida who choose to carry while driving. His detailed breakdown was aimed at making sure armed citizens stay both safe and lawful.
Florida’s Move to Constitutional Carry
According to Montiero, Florida officially joined the growing list of constitutional carry states in July 2023 when Governor Ron DeSantis signed HB 543 into law. As he explained, this means that anyone 21 or older with a valid government-issued ID can legally carry a concealed firearm without first obtaining a permit. “It changed the way we do things in Florida,” Montiero said, noting that the law gave residents more flexibility while still demanding responsibility.
Concealed vs. Open Carry
One of Montiero’s key points was clarifying the difference between concealed and open carry. In Florida, he stressed, firearms must remain completely concealed. “You cannot ever see the weapon in the state of Florida,” he said. Even inside a vehicle, the gun must be hidden from plain view. Montiero made it clear that Florida is not an open carry state, and leaving a gun in the passenger seat or visible in a console could result in arrest.
Vehicles as an Extension of Your Home
Florida law treats vehicles under the castle doctrine, Montiero explained. This means your car is considered an extension of your home, giving you the right to keep a firearm for protection inside. Before constitutional carry, the weapon had to be secured in a compartment, but now adults over 21 can legally carry the gun on their person while driving—so long as it remains concealed.
Carrying Without a Permit at 18–20
Montiero also highlighted an important distinction for younger adults. Floridians aged 18 to 20 who do not yet qualify for permitless concealed carry may still keep a gun in the car – but it must be securely encased and not readily accessible. For example, it could be locked in a glove box or placed in a holster inside a closed console. At that age, however, carrying the firearm directly on your body in the car is still prohibited.
What to Do During a Traffic Stop
A major concern for many gun owners is how to handle a police stop. Montiero’s advice was clear: keep calm, keep still, and keep your hands visible. “Hands on the steering wheel, vehicle in park, windows down if weather permits, hazard lights on – don’t move,” he said. For officers, the danger comes from not knowing what a driver’s hands are doing. Showing your hands immediately helps de-escalate the situation.
Are You Required to Disclose?
Florida is a non-disclosure state, Montiero explained. Drivers pulled over for a routine violation are not legally required to inform officers that they are carrying a firearm. However, if an officer specifically asks whether there are weapons in the car, the driver must then disclose. “It is totally up to you if you would like to disclose you have a firearm,” Montiero said, but honesty is required when asked directly.
How Officers Might Respond
Montiero also made it clear that if officers see something suspicious – like the outline of a gun – they have probable cause to ask questions. In that case, drivers should remain calm and acknowledge the weapon. Officers do have the authority to temporarily secure the firearm for the duration of the stop, though they cannot seize it permanently. This, Montiero stressed, is about safety, not confiscation.
The Importance of a Holster
One of Montiero’s strongest recommendations was always using a proper holster when carrying in the car. He warned against simply tucking a firearm into the waistband without protection. A holster not only secures the gun but also shields the trigger, greatly reducing the risk of negligent discharge. “Find a good holster that works for you,” he urged, noting that the market is full of safe, practical options.
Training Still Matters
While Florida’s new law removed the permit requirement, Montiero emphasized that training should never be skipped. Understanding firearm mechanics, safety rules, and shooting fundamentals is essential. “The state may not require training, but I would also recommend that you do that,” he said. In his view, carrying a gun without proper training is like driving without ever learning road rules – it puts everyone at risk.
Places You Still Cannot Carry
Montiero reminded viewers that even with constitutional carry, restrictions remain. Firearms are still prohibited in places such as schools, government facilities, banks, and public gatherings. Simply having the legal right to carry in a car does not grant blanket permission everywhere. Gun owners must remain mindful of where firearms are off-limits, or they could face serious charges.
The Rules Are Clear
What stands out in Montiero’s segment is his balance. He strongly supports Floridians’ right to defend themselves but underscores that with rights come duties. Too many gun owners assume carrying in a car is a gray area, but as Montiero explained, the rules are clear: conceal it, control it, and communicate responsibly. His reminder that police officers expect calm, cooperative behavior during traffic stops is especially practical advice.
A Broader Perspective on Responsibility
In my view, Montiero’s approach highlights something many overlook: most gun owners will never need to fire their weapon defensively, but they will almost certainly interact with law enforcement at some point while carrying. The way you handle that moment – calmly, transparently, and safely – could make the difference between a routine stop and a dangerous misunderstanding. It’s not just about protecting yourself from criminals; it’s about avoiding unnecessary conflict with those sworn to protect the public.
Final Recap from Trooper Steve
To wrap up, Montiero’s guidance can be boiled down into a few key takeaways:
- Over 21 with valid ID? You can carry concealed on your person in the car.
- Ages 18–20 can still have a firearm in the vehicle, but only secured and out of reach.
- Florida remains a concealed carry only state – no open carry allowed.
- During traffic stops, keep your hands visible, don’t fidget, and wait for instructions.
- Disclosure of your firearm is only required if asked directly.
- Always use a holster, and seek training even if not legally required.
As Montiero put it: “Firearms can be dangerous in the wrong hands, but they can also be a good tool in the right hands.” His words are a reminder that carrying in a car isn’t just about knowing the law – it’s about exercising judgment, discipline, and respect for the responsibility you’ve chosen to carry.
Ed spent his childhood in the backwoods of Maine, where harsh winters taught him the value of survival skills. With a background in bushcraft and off-grid living, Ed has honed his expertise in fire-making, hunting, and wild foraging. He writes from personal experience, sharing practical tips and hands-on techniques to thrive in any outdoor environment. Whether it’s primitive camping or full-scale survival, Ed’s advice is grounded in real-life challenges.
