Q & A’s

Can an individual who is between the age of 18 to 20 years old apply for a license? A federal district court has ruled the Department can no longer apply the License to Carry statutory eligibility criteria that prohibit otherwise eligible 18-to-20 year-olds from obtaining the license.  Firearms Policy Coalition, Inc. et. al., v. Steven McCraw, et. al., No. 4:21-cv-1245-P.  The Department will therefore no longer deny applications solely on the basis that the applicants are 18-to-20 years old.

What makes me ineligible to receive a LTC? A number of factors may make individuals ineligible to obtain a license, such as: felony convictions, some misdemeanor convictions, including charges that resulted in probation or deferred adjudication; certain pending criminal charges; chemical or alcohol dependency; certain types of psychological diagnoses, and protective or restraining orders.

How do I apply for a Texas License to Carry a Handgun (LTC)? Applicants for an original (first-time) LTC should submit an online application, and schedule an appointment for fingerprinting. Applicants must also complete four to six hours of classroom training, pass a written examination and pass a proficiency demonstration (shooting). All classroom and proficiency must be conducted in Texas by a LTC instructor certified by DPS.

Once I submit my application, when should I expect to receive my license? DPS will make every effort to issue your license within 60 days of receiving the completed application packet. If the application is incomplete or requires additional information to complete the background check, you will be notified in writing.

How long is the Texas License to Carry a Handgun (LTC) valid? Initial licenses are valid for four years. Renewal licenses are valid for five years.

When does the law allowing a licensee to openly carry a handgun go into effect? House Bill 910 becomes effective January 1, 2016.

How much does it cost to obtain or renew a License to Carry a Handgun (LTC)? The standard fee for an original LTC is $40. The standard fee for a renewal of a LTC is $40. However, Texas law provides for some discounts if you meet certain special conditions. The classroom and shooting proficiency fees are not included with this.

Do I have to be a resident of Texas to obtain a Texas License to Carry a Handgun (LTC)? No. Per Texas Government Code §411.173, legal residents of another state or persons who relocate to Texas with the intent to establish residency may obtain an LTC. Those individuals must submit an application, pay the required fees, successfully complete the required training in Texas and submit all supporting documents. They also must submit form CHL-6, two passport style photos and a copy of their out of state driver license or state issued identification card. Note, however, that all LTC applicants must be legal residents of Texas or another state.

What type of class or training is required in order to obtain a Texas License to Carry a Handgun (LTC)? An original (first-time) LTC applicant must complete classroom training, pass a written examination and pass a proficiency demonstration (shooting). All classroom and proficiency must be conducted by an LTC instructor certified by DPS. The classroom instruction may be a four to six hour course and must cover the four (4) statutory required topics:

  • Laws that relate to weapons and the use of deadly force
  • Handgun use and safety, including use of restraint holsters and methods to ensure the secure carrying of openly carried handguns
  • Non-violent dispute resolution
  • Proper storage practices for handguns with an emphasis on storage practices that eliminate the possibility of accidental injury to a child

Is there a requirement to take a continuing education course before I can renew my Texas License to Carry a Handgun (LTC)? Per HB 48 (83rd Legislature), continuing education is no longer required for LTC renewal. License holders will simply apply online and submit the supporting documents for discounted fees or special conditions.

NOTE: It is the license holder’s responsibility to remain informed and knowledgeable of new laws. For additional information related to new legislation, see Legislative Updates.

If I have a Texas License to Carry a Handgun (LTC) and I am traveling to another state with a reciprocal agreement, what are my responsibilities? If you are in a state that has reciprocity with Texas, you must follow that state’s laws for carrying a handgun. The same responsibility applies to anyone from another state when traveling in Texas; they must follow Texas laws for carrying a handgun. Most states will have a website for their carry licenses or permits that specify their laws. Alternatively, you may contact the other state and ask what their laws are for carrying a handgun while in that state.

Will I need to have a gun before I begin my training class? Some instructors may require you to use your own gun during the proficiency (shooting) demonstration. However, others may provide the gun and/or ammunition. You will need to consult with a certified instructor to determine if you will need a handgun for the course.

I have applied for a Texas License to Carry a Handgun (LTC). When can I begin carrying my handgun? You can begin carrying your handgun upon receipt of the physical license. As a reminder, HB 910 related to open carry becomes effective January 1, 2016. Issuance of the LTC prior to the effective date does not provide authority for license holders to carry openly before the effective date of the new law.

Does the new Texas law require a specific type of shoulder or belt holster?

No. HB 910, passed by the 84th Texas Legislature, allows license holders to openly carry a handgun in a shoulder or belt holster. The law does not specify any particular type of shoulder or belt holster.

I currently hold a Texas License to Carry a Handgun (LTC). Does the law prohibit carrying a handgun on public transportation? No. Texas law does not specifically address any prohibitions against a license holder from carrying a handgun on public transportation.

Does the law prohibit the licensed carrying of a handgun in a public park? No. Texas law does not specifically address any prohibitions against a license holder from carrying a handgun in public park.

Do private property owners have the right to exclude license holders from their property? Yes. Private property owners may exclude license holders from carrying concealed handguns on their property by giving the license holder effective notice as provided in Section 30.06, Texas Penal Code.

Effective 1/1/2016, private property owners may exclude license holders from carrying openly on their property by giving the license holder effective notice as provided by Section 30.07, Texas Penal Code.

For the purpose of these two statutory sections, the owner of the property or someone with apparent authority to act for the owner may provide effective notice.

If licensed, can I carry more than one handgun? Texas law does not address the number of handguns a license holder may carry.

If licensed, can I carry concealed or openly on the premises of a college campus? Currently, Texas law prohibits the carrying of handguns on the premises of a college campus.

SB 11 related to carrying of handguns on certain campuses of higher education institutions including private and independent institutions becomes effective on August 1, 2016. The act becomes effective for a public junior college on August 1, 2017. Open carrying of handguns on a college campus will continue to be prohibited.

Provided information subject to change. Please visit Texas.gov for additional information and/or updates.