If you’re a Texan considering exercising your right to carry a handgun for self-defense, obtaining a Texas License to Carry (LTC) is a straightforward and easy process. Texas is known for its strong support of Second Amendment rights, and the state has made it relatively simple for law-abiding citizens to obtain an LTC. We’ll walk you through the steps to get your Texas LTC, explain the benefits of having one and provide some tips to make the process as smooth as possible.
What is a Texas LTC?
A Texas License to Carry (LTC) allows individuals to legally carry a handgun in public, either openly or concealed. While Texas is a constitutional carry state (meaning you can carry a handgun without a license ), having an LTC comes with several advantages including the ability to carry in more places with fewer restrictions.
Steps to Get Your Texas LTC
1. Meet the Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for an LTC, ensure you meet the following criteria:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You must not be convicted of a felony or certain misdemeanors like domestic violence.
- You must not be chemically dependent or have a history of substance abuse.
- You must not be subject to a protective order or restraining order.
- You must be legally eligible to purchase and possess a firearm under state and federal law.
2. Complete the LTC Training Course
Texas requires all LTC applicants to complete a state-approved training course. This course includes:
- Online LTC Course: Covers Texas gun laws, use-of-force regulations, safe storage, and conflict resolution. Can be taken online at your own pace.
- Proficiency demonstration: A shooting test where you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to safely handle and shoot a handgun. The test involves shooting at a target from varying distances. The online LTC course will connect you with an instructor in your area.
3. Submit Your Application Online
Once you’ve completed your training, you’ll need to submit your LTC application through the Texas DPS website. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Your completed LTC-104 form (provided by the online LTC course).
- A valid government-issued ID.
- Payment for the application fee (typically $40 for first-time applicants, though discounts may apply for veterans and active-duty military personnel).
After submitting your application, you’ll need to schedule an appointment to have your fingerprints taken. This is done through IdentoGO, a third-party fingerprinting service. You’ll receive a fingerprinting service code after submitting your application, which you’ll use to schedule your appointment.
4. Wait for Your LTC to Arrive
Once your application is approved, your LTC will be mailed to you. The processing time can vary, but DPS has 60 days to issue your LTC.
Benefits of Having a Texas LTC
There are several reasons to get an LTC, some of them include:
Government Buildings: Local city and county authorities cannot prohibit license holders from carrying in most city/county buildings.
Reciprocity: Your Texas LTC is recognized in over 37 other states, allowing you to carry legally when traveling.
Faster Firearm Purchases: With an LTC, you can skip the federal background check when buying a firearm from a licensed dealer.
Legal Protections: An LTC provides additional legal protections, such as the presumption of innocence in certain self-defense situations.
Training and Confidence: The LTC process ensures you’re well-versed in Texas gun laws and proficient in handling a firearm.
Carry in More Places: The Texas LTC allows you to carry in more places with fewer restrictions.
School Zone Carry: Having a LTC allows you to bypass federal gun free school zone laws.
Campus Carry: A LTC allows you to carry at colleges in Texas including in the buildings.
Trespass Protections: The Texas LTC allows you to carry past “no gun” signs.
Carry In Hospitals: An LTC allows you to carry in hospitals that don’t post 30.06 or 30.07 signs.
Carry In Nursing Homes: The LTC allows you to carry in Nursing homes that don’t have 30.06 or 30.07 signs posted.
Carry in Amusement Parks: Having an LTC allows you to carry in Amusement Parks that don’t have 30.06 or 30.07 signs posted.
Get Started Now
The online Texas license to carry class is available 24/7. You can take the class at your own pace from the comfort of your home. The class is approved statewide by the Texas Department of Public Safety.