Get Your Texas License to Carry
Get Your Texas License to Carry
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Getting your Texas License to Carry can seem like a complicated and daunting task, but it's really very straightforward!
Getting your Texas License to Carry can seem like a complicated and daunting task, but it's really very straightforward!
Why, if Texas is a constitutional carry state?
Why, if Texas is a constitutional carry state?
Well, Texas isn't actually a constitutional carry state. "Constitutional Carry" implies that everyone has the same rights and privileges as a license holder (or no license program exists). Instead, Texas is a "Permit-less Carry" state. This means that while you don't need a permit or license to carry a handgun in most situations, if you do have a license to carry, then you benefit from additional rights, such as the ability to conceal carry on many college campuses, additional legal protections in some situations, an easier and expedited ability to purchase a handgun, and of course, the great and important TRAINING that comes from taking a certified Texas LTC course!
Benefits of having a LTC:
The following examples/scenarios should not be construed as legal advice; the author is not a lawyer.
Benefits of having a LTC:
The following examples/scenarios should not be construed as legal advice; the author is not a lawyer.
Carry concealed on public college campuses (unless otherwise posted) and within 1,000ft of a school*
*Texas LTC holders are exempt, while in Texas, from the federal law that prohibits firearms within 1,000 feet of a school. This exemption does not apply to school premises (generally, inside school buildings).30.05 (no firearm) signs apply only to those without a LTC**
**You'll see three types of these signs banning firearms in a building/business: 30.05 applies to permit-less carry, 30.06 applies to concealed carry with a license, and 30.07 applies to open carry with a license.Reciprocity - legally carry your firearm in 37 other states (pursuant to state/local laws/regulations)
Documentation you've gone through required training, which can be helpful in a legal defense
(limited) Protection against accidentally carrying a firearm through airport security***
***Carrying a firearm into TSA airport security without a LTC is a Class 3 Felony or Class A Misdemeanor. With a LTC, you'll be asked to leave the secure area instead of being arrested and charged (you must immediately comply).Bypass NCIS background checks when purchasing firearms
Additional state identification card (acceptable for voter ID, and most businesses must accept it by law)
The Process:
The Process:
Step 1: Be sure you Qualify!
You may not qualify for a Texas LTC if:
You have a recent history (or deferred adjudication) of criminal convictions
You are delinquent in Child Support payments
You are younger than 18 years of age
You are a non-immigrant alien (unless you have a hunting license)
If none of the above apply to you, you likely qualify to apply for and receive a Texas LTC!
Familiarity with handguns is not required but is highly recommended prior to getting a Texas LTC. You can get familiarity by renting firearmsÂ
Step 2: Take a certified LTC course.
Find a certified instructor to provide the required course training (for example, Gray Cat Security's Texas LTC Course). This is a one day course that involves a required 4-6 hours of classroom time, one hour of range instruction, and a practical shooting exercise.
Step 3: Complete the Application and submit documentation.
Submit an application online here. There is an application fee of $40, but check this page to see if you qualify for a discounted or waived fee. During the application process, you'll submit your LTC-100 document (you'll get that after passing the LTC course) and any documentation required for additional identification or applicaion fee discounts. You can submit additional documentation here.
Step 4: Have your fingerprints taken.
Once your application is processed (usually within a few days) you'll receive a code to have your fingerprints taken. Use that code, make an appointment, and complete your fingerprinting. Your fingerprints will be submitted on your behalf electronically; once your appointment is complete, there is no further action is required by you. Once your fingerprints are submitted, DPS will complete their background check process.
Step 5: Check your mailbox!
If everything checks out, you'll receive your license in the mail once the process is complete!
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