Texas Concealed Carry & License to Carry (LTC) Guide
Texas became a constitutional carry state in September 2021, allowing anyone 21 and older who can legally possess a firearm to carry concealed without a permit. However, the License to Carry (LTC) still provides benefits including reciprocity with other states, ability to carry in more locations, and faster background checks on firearm purchases.
- Constitutional carry since September 2021
- LTC still available for reciprocity benefits
- LTC holders can carry in more locations
- Online training option available
- 4-6 hours of training required for LTC
- Valid for 5 years
At a Glance
Quick Answer: Texas Concealed Carry
Last updated: 2025-01-02
Texas is a constitutional carry state. You do not need a permit to carry a concealed firearm if you are 21 or older and legally allowed to possess a firearm. However, Texas offers an optional License to Carry (LTC) for benefits like reciprocity with other states. The permit costs $40 and is valid for 5 years. Training of 6 hours is required.
Permit Required?
No (Constitutional Carry)
Minimum Age
21 years old
Training Required?
Yes (6 hours)
Permit Cost
$40
Processing Time
30-60 days
States Honoring Permit
34+ states
Common Questions
- Do I need a permit to carry concealed in Texas?
- No. Texas is a constitutional carry state. Anyone 21 or older who can legally possess a firearm may carry concealed without a permit.
- How much does a Texas concealed carry permit cost?
- The License to Carry (LTC) costs $40, valid for 5 years.
- Is training required for a Texas CCW permit?
- Yes. Texas requires 6 hours of firearms safety training.
- Can I open carry in Texas?
- Yes. Open carry is legal in Texas for individuals who can legally possess a firearm.
Source: USGunClasses.com - Texas Concealed Carry Permit Guide. Information verified as of 2025-01-02. Always verify current laws with official state sources before carrying.
Texas Concealed Carry Quick Facts
Essential information at a glance
Permit Type
License to Carry (LTC)
Issued By
Department of Public Safety
Processing Time
30-60 days
Cost Range
$40
Valid For
5 years
Permit Required?
Constitutional Carry
How to Get a Concealed Carry Permit in Texas
Step-by-step guide to obtaining your permit
Timeline:Most applicants receive their LTC within 30 days of completing all requirements. DPS has up to 60 days by law.
Complete LTC Training Course
Take a Texas-approved LTC training course. You can complete the classroom portion online through an approved provider, followed by in-person range qualification.
- 4-6 hours of classroom instruction
- Online classroom option available
- Must pass 25-question written exam
- Range qualification with live fire required
Complete Range Qualification
Demonstrate handgun proficiency with a Texas Qualified LTC Instructor. If you took online training, this is a separate 1-2 hour session.
- 50 rounds minimum at 3, 7, and 15 yards
- Must score 70% or higher
- Can use revolver or semi-automatic
- Instructor provides LTC-100 or LTC-101 certificate
Submit Online Application
Create an account on the Texas DPS website and submit your LTC application online. You will need your training certificate information.
- Application fee is $40
- Upload passport-style photo
- Complete LTC-104 form
- Pay with credit/debit card
Complete Fingerprinting
Schedule and complete fingerprinting at an Identogo location. DPS will provide instructions after you submit your application.
- Fingerprinting fee approximately $10
- Bring government-issued ID
- Schedule appointment through Identogo website
Pass Background Check
DPS will conduct a comprehensive background check through state and federal databases.
- Criminal history check
- Mental health records review
- Processing typically 30 days
- Maximum 60 days by law
Receive Your LTC
Once approved, your LTC will be mailed to your address on file. You can check status online through your DPS account.
- Plastic card mailed to you
- Valid for 5 years from issue date
- Carry with government-issued photo ID
Pro Tips
- Create your DPS online account before starting training
- Schedule fingerprinting appointment early to avoid delays
- Keep copies of all training certificates
- Check application status online regularly
Texas Concealed Carry Requirements
Eligibility criteria and prerequisites
Age Requirements
Standard Applicant
21+ years old
Must be at least 21 years old
Military/Protected Order Exception
18+ years old
Ages 18-20 eligible if active military or protected by certain protective orders (as of 2023)
Residency Requirements
Texas residents apply through DPS. Must have valid Texas ID or driver's license.
Documentation needed:
- Valid Texas driver's license or state ID
- Proof of Texas residency
Non-residents may also apply if they are legal U.S. residents with intent to establish Texas residency.
Background Check Criteria
DPS conducts comprehensive criminal and mental health background checks.
Checks performed include:
- Texas criminal history
- FBI National Criminal Database (NICS)
- Mental health records
- Outstanding warrants
- Protective orders
Background checks typically complete within 2-3 weeks.
Disqualifying Factors
Convicted of a felony
- - Any felony conviction permanently disqualifies
- - Must wait 5 years after felony probation completes
Convicted of certain Class A or B misdemeanors within past 5 years
- - Assault causing bodily injury
- - Terroristic threat
- - Deadly conduct
- - Disorderly conduct with firearm
Mental health-related disqualifications
- - Adjudicated mentally incompetent
- - Currently under psychiatric care
- - Diagnosed with certain mental conditions
Chemical dependency
- - Currently chemically dependent
- - Recent substance abuse treatment
Subject to protective order
- - Active protective order prohibiting firearm possession
Texas-Specific Prerequisites
Not Delinquent on Taxes or Child Support
Cannot be delinquent on state taxes or child support payments
How to obtain: Resolve any outstanding obligations before applying
Texas Training Requirements
Required training to obtain your permit
Total Hours Required
6h
Classroom Hours
4h
Range Hours
2h
Cert Validity
Must apply within 2 years of training completion
Approved Training Formats
In-Person Classroom + Range
Traditional format with instructor-led classroom and range qualification in one session.
Pros:
- Complete in one day
- Immediate feedback from instructor
- Hands-on experience
Online Classroom + In-Person Range
Complete 4-hour online course at your own pace, then attend 1-2 hour range session separately.
Pros:
- Flexible scheduling for classroom portion
- Study at your own pace
- Convenient for busy schedules
Accepted Certifications
| Certification | Organization | State Approved |
|---|---|---|
Texas LTC Training Certificate (LTC-100) Full in-person course completion certificate | Texas Qualified LTC Instructors | Yes |
Online/Handgun Proficiency Certificate (LTC-101) For online classroom + in-person range combination | Approved Online Providers | Yes |
Training Exemptions
Some applicants may qualify for training exemptions:
Active Military
Active duty military may have reduced training requirements
Required docs: Military ID, Proof of handgun qualification
Current/Former Law Enforcement
Current or retired law enforcement officers
Required docs: Department credentials, Qualification records
Find Texas LTC Classes Near You
Browse verified instructors offering state-approved training in your area. Book online and get certified faster.
Renewal Information
How to renew your Texas concealed carry permit
Renewal Period
Every 5 years
Renewal Window
6 months before expiration
Renewal Fee
$40.00
Retraining
Not Required
Grace Period
Texas provides a None - expired license invalid grace period after expiration. During this time, your permit is invalid for carry but can still be renewed without starting the application process over.
Renewal Steps
Apply Online for Renewal
Log into your DPS account and submit renewal application before expiration.
Pay Renewal Fee
Pay the $40 renewal fee online.
Complete Background Check
DPS will conduct a new background check.
Receive New LTC
New LTC card mailed upon approval.
Renewal Fees
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
Renewal Application Fee Same as new application | $40.00 |
| Total Renewal Cost | $40.00 |
Late Renewal Penalties
- Must apply as new applicant if license has expired
- May need to retake training course
Renewal Tips
- Set calendar reminder 6 months before expiration
- Renew early to avoid gaps in carry privileges
- Update address if you have moved
Fees & Costs
Complete breakdown of all fees for Texas concealed carry permits
Initial Application
Renewal Fees
Accepted Payment Methods
Important Fee Information
- • Complete all training before starting online application
- • Have training certificate number ready when applying
- • Schedule fingerprinting promptly after application submission
- • Check application status online through your DPS account
Why These Fees?
Texas Concealed Carry Laws
Important legal restrictions and regulations you must follow
Ignorance of the Law is Not a Defense
Violating concealed carry laws can result in criminal charges, loss of your permit, and inability to own firearms. Always verify current laws before carrying and consult with a firearms attorney for legal advice.
Pistol-Free Zones
Where you cannot carry in Texas
Important Notice
Carrying in prohibited locations is a serious offense. Always verify current laws and signage requirements. This information is for educational purposes and may not reflect the most recent changes.
Texas State Prohibited
Schools and School Buses
K-12 schools, school buses, and school-sponsored activities
Signage required: No
Exceptions:
- - Licensed individuals may have firearms in locked vehicle
Polling Places
During voting hours on election days
Signage required: No
Courts and Court Offices
Courtrooms and offices used by courts
Signage required: Yes
Racetracks
Horse or greyhound racing facilities
Signage required: Yes
Secured Areas of Airports
Beyond TSA security checkpoints
Signage required: No
Correctional Facilities
Jails, prisons, and detention centers
Signage required: No
Hospitals (Licensed)
Licensed hospitals and nursing facilities unless properly posted
Signage required: Yes
Amusement Parks
Theme parks and amusement facilities unless properly posted
Signage required: Yes
Businesses with 30.06/30.07 Signs
Private businesses that post proper signage prohibiting concealed (30.06) or open (30.07) carry
Signage required: Yes
Federal Prohibited
Post Offices
All U.S. Postal Service facilities
Federal Buildings
Federal courthouses, IRS offices, Social Security offices
Military Installations
Military bases and installations
VA Facilities
Veterans Affairs hospitals and clinics
Notable Exceptions
Private Property with Permission
May carry on private property with owner permission even if generally prohibited
- - Must have express permission from owner/manager
Penalties for Violations
Violations can result in Class A or Class C misdemeanor charges depending on location.
| Violation | Consequence | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Carrying in 30.06/30.07 posted location (first offense) | Class C misdemeanor, up to $200 fine | civil |
| Carrying in statutory prohibited location | Class A misdemeanor, up to 1 year jail, $4,000 fine | misdemeanor |
Weapons Restrictions
Firearm and ammunition regulations in Texas
Magazine Capacity Limits
Texas has no state-level magazine capacity restrictions.
Ammunition Restrictions
Armor-Piercing Ammunition
Prohibited for use in handguns under federal law
Hollow Point Ammunition
Legal and commonly used for self-defense
Prohibited Firearm Types
Machine Guns
Fully automatic weapons require NFA registration
Exceptions:
- - Properly registered with ATF under NFA
Short-Barreled Rifles/Shotguns
Require NFA registration
Exceptions:
- - Properly registered with ATF under NFA
Carrying Restrictions
Carry in Vehicle
LTC holders may carry concealed in vehicle. Permitless carriers must keep firearm concealed.
Penalty: Displaying firearm in threatening manner is a crime
Additional Notes
- Texas is one of the most firearm-friendly states
- Local municipalities cannot enact stricter gun laws (preemption)
- LTC holders get benefits over permitless carriers in certain locations
Carrying Under the Influence
Alcohol and substance laws while carrying in Texas
Legal BAC Limit While Carrying
Zero Tolerance
Texas law prohibits carrying a handgun while intoxicated. While there is no specific BAC limit defined, any level of intoxication that impairs mental or physical faculties is prohibited.
Carrying in Bars/Restaurants
Allowed
- - LTC holders may carry in restaurants that serve alcohol
- - Must not be intoxicated while carrying
- - Cannot carry in businesses that derive 51% or more revenue from alcohol sales (bars)
Restrictions When Carrying in Bars/Restaurants
- Bars with 51% sign are off-limits
- Cannot consume alcohol to point of intoxication while carrying
Penalties for Violations
| Violation | Consequence | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Carrying while intoxicated | Class A misdemeanor, up to 1 year jail, $4,000 fine, LTC revocation | misdemeanor |
Related Laws
Texas Penal Code 46.035
Prohibits carrying while intoxicated
Citation: Tex. Penal Code § 46.035
Best Practices
- Look for the red "51%" sign indicating alcohol-primary businesses
- If you plan to drink, do not carry
- Intoxication is defined as impairment, not a specific BAC
Need Legal Advice?
These laws are complex and subject to change. For specific legal questions about your situation, consult with a qualified firearms attorney in Texas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Texas concealed carry permits and laws
carry
No, if you are 21+ and legally allowed to possess a firearm, you can carry concealed without a permit. However, an LTC provides benefits including reciprocity with other states and the ability to carry in some locations where permitless carry is prohibited.
30.06 signs prohibit concealed carry by LTC holders. 30.07 signs prohibit open carry by LTC holders. Businesses may post one or both. Permitless carriers must also observe these signs.
training
Yes, the classroom portion (4-6 hours) can be completed online through an approved provider. However, you must still complete in-person range qualification with a Texas Qualified LTC Instructor.
application
As of 2023, individuals 18-20 may apply for an LTC if they are active military, veterans, or protected by certain protective orders. Otherwise, you must be 21 to carry.
Still have questions?
Contact your local issuing authority or consult with a qualified firearms attorney for specific legal advice.
Application Process
How to submit your Texas concealed carry permit application
Where to Apply
Online Application
Apply online through the Texas DPS LTC website. This is the preferred method.
Visit txapps.texas.gov/txapp/txdps/ltc
Required Documents Checklist
LTC Training Certificate
LTC-100 or LTC-101 form from your instructor
How to obtain: Provided upon completion of training course
Texas Driver's License or State ID
Valid, unexpired Texas-issued identification
How to obtain: Texas DPS driver license office
Passport-Style Photo
Digital photo uploaded during online application
How to obtain: Can be taken with smartphone meeting requirements
Application Fees
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee Standard fee for new LTC applications | $40.00 |
Fingerprinting Fee Paid separately at Identogo location | $10.00 |
| Estimated Total | $50.00 |
Processing Timeframes
Standard Processing
30 days typical
DPS has up to 60 days by law
Pro Tips for a Smooth Application
- Complete all training before starting online application
- Have training certificate number ready when applying
- Schedule fingerprinting promptly after application submission
- Check application status online through your DPS account
Reciprocity
Where your Texas permit is valid
37
States honor your TX permit
34
States' permits honored in TX
Reciprocity Type
full
States That Honor Your TX Permit
Your TX Permit Is Valid In:
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
Colorado
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Michigan
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Mexico
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Utah
Virginia
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
TX Honors Permits From:
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
Colorado
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Michigan
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Mexico
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Utah
Virginia
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Important Reciprocity Notes
- Texas is a constitutional carry state - no permit needed for residents 21+
- LTC provides reciprocity benefits when traveling
- LTC holders can carry in more locations than permitless carriers
- Always verify current reciprocity before traveling
- Follow the laws of the state you are visiting
Reciprocity information last verified: January 2025. Always verify current laws before traveling with your firearm.
Additional Resources
Official links and contacts for Texas
Government Resources
Contact Information
Texas DPS - Handgun Licensing
Regulatory Services Division
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Links
Find Texas CCW Training Near You
Browse verified instructors offering state-approved training in your area. Book online, complete your training, and get one step closer to your concealed carry permit.