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.
An applicant may receive LTC online training (classroom only) through an Approved Online Course Provider. After, successfully passing the online classroom portion, an applicant must attend 1-2 hours of range instruction class and demonstrate handgun proficiency (shooting) with a Texas Qualified LTC Instructor.
Complete The Online LTC/CHL Class Complete the self paced online class. Come and go as needed. Each section is roughly 15 minutes. You are immediately given access to your DPS LTC-104 (Formerly called a LTC-101 if issued prior to May 1st 2024).
Some states allow an applicant to complete an application online, while others require an in-person visit to the office of the respective issuing authority. There are even states that require the applicant provide a list of non-related character references.
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.
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.
You must attend a four to six hour in-person or online classroom training and pass a written examination with a certified instructor. Classroom training will cover: Laws related to weapons and the use of deadly force.
The Regulatory Services Division of DPS will begin processing your application only after all paperwork has been completed. Usual wait time for your license is 2-4 weeks.
People with a handgun license may be able to take their guns to some places where unlicensed people can't. For example, there are different rules for unlicensed carry and licensed carry near schools and at colleges.
Obtaining a concealed carry permit offers multiple benefits, from personal safety and legal protection to increased confidence in handling a firearm. With the added advantage of reciprocity across states, you can carry with peace of mind and a clear understanding of your responsibilities as a permit holder.