Texas doesn't have a waiting period for gun purchases. Purchases through a federally licensed gun dealer will lead to a criminal background check that verifies that the buyer can own a gun.
Texas & Federal Law It includes various restrictions on: those under age 18, those convicted of a felony, those with an active protective order against them, and those who are intoxicated. This chapter broadly regulates many aspects of sales, transfers, and possession of firearms.
Firearm Prohibitions in Texas Under federal law, people are generally prohibited from purchasing or possessing firearms if they have been convicted of a felony or some domestic violence misdemeanors, or if they are subject to certain court orders related to domestic violence or a serious mental condition.
1. Enhanced Personal Protection. The most obvious benefit of a gun license is the ability to legally carry a concealed firearm for personal protection anywhere you go, even when in another state. Texas has reciprocity agreements with certain other states for firearm licenses.
As of 2021, Texas law no longer requires people to have a license to carry (LTC) in order to carry a handgun in most public places. See our Carry of Firearms page for more info on this new law. However, Texans are still able to get a license to carry after the new law takes effect.
Under the Unlicensed Carry Law, as of September, anyone 21 or older can carry a handgun in most places without any need for training or a permit. (Texans still need licenses to carry guns in schools or colleges, although requirements can vary depending on the school and location; private businesses can also ban guns.)
Most background checks are resolved instantly, but investigations can currently last up to 90 days. There is no evidence that waiting periods reduce suicides, homicides, or mass shootings.
In conclusion, obtaining a Texas handgun license is a simple process that can provide many benefits. The application process can be completed online or in person and the processing time is usually no more than 60 days.