As of 2021, Texas law no longer requires people to have a license to carry (LTC) to carry a handgun in most public places. Texans can still get a license to carry if they wish. See the Texas State Law Library page for more.
Since September 1, 2021, a permit is not required for a person, both residents and non-residents, 21 and over to carry a handgun either openly or concealed in most places in Texas, granted they do not have any prior felony convictions.
Texas law makes some places always off-limits to firearms (both handguns and long guns). The law was amended in 2021 to remove the requirement to have a license to carry in order to carry a handgun. The amendment also consolidated the list of places where firearms are prohibited.
Get your Texas LTC in 3 steps. Study the $49.95 course and pass the online test. After completing the online course, you will receive an LTC-104 certificate that you will take to the in-person test.
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 the manner you selected on your application.
As of September 1, 2021, House Bill (HB) 1927, known as the Constitutional Carry Law, allows most Texans over the age of 21 to carry a handgun without a permit, either openly or concealed. Despite its bold name, Constitutional Carry is not a right in every situation and is subject to some limitations.
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.
Can I have a gun in my car in Texas? The Texas Motorist Protection Act (HB 1815), effective as of September 1, 2007, permits any law-abiding Texas resident the legal right to carry a handgun inside their motor vehicle in Texas (without a Handgun License to Carry) or any other permit.
As of 2021, Texas law no longer requires people to have a license to carry (LTC) to carry a handgun in most public places. Texans can still get a license to carry if they wish. See the Texas State Law Library page for more.