If you’re a Texas resident or non-resident looking to carry a handgun for self-defense, obtaining a License to Carry (LTC) is a critical step in making sure you can carry in as many places as possible and with legal protections from the state. But are you eligible? This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Texas LTC eligibility, from the requirements to the application process and common misconceptions.
An Overview of Texas LTC Eligibility
Texas offers one of the most straightforward processes for obtaining a License to Carry. Both residents and non-residents can apply for an LTC, but meeting the eligibility criteria is key. The state has specific requirements relating to age, criminal history, and mental health, all designed to ensure responsible firearm ownership.
Here’s a quick snapshot of eligibility criteria:
- Minimum age: 18 years old
- Legal status: U.S. citizen or legal resident.
- Residency: Texas residents and non-residents eligible.
- Criminal record: No felony convictions or Class A/B misdemeanors within specific timeframes.
- Mental health: No diagnoses or legal declarations of mental incapacitation in your history.
Why is it important? Understanding eligibility ensures that you don’t waste time or money applying if you don’t meet the criteria. It also helps maintain responsible firearm ownership across the state.
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Texas License to Carry Eligibility Requirements
All eligibility details for the Texas LTC can be found in Texas Government Code chapter 411.172.
- Is a legal resident of this state for the six-month period preceding the date of application under this subchapter or is otherwise eligible for a license under Section 411.173(a);
- Is at least 18 years of age;
- Has not been convicted of a felony;
- Is not charged with the commission of a Class A or Class B misdemeanor or equivalent offense, or of an offense under Section 42.01, Penal Code, or equivalent offense, or of a felony under an information or indictment;
- Is not a fugitive from justice for a felony or a Class A or Class B misdemeanor or equivalent offense;
- Is not a chemically dependent person;
- Is not incapable of exercising sound judgment with respect to the proper use and storage of a handgun;
- Has not, in the five years preceding the date of application, been convicted of a Class A or Class B misdemeanor or equivalent offense or of an offense under Section 42.01, Penal Code, or equivalent offense;
- Is fully qualified under applicable federal and state law to purchase a handgun;
- Has not been finally determined to be delinquent in making a child support payment administered or collected by the attorney general;
- Has not been finally determined to be delinquent in the payment of a tax or other money collected by the comptroller, the tax collector of a political subdivision of the state, or any agency or subdivision of the state;
- Is not currently restricted under a court protective order or subject to a restraining order affecting the spousal relationship, other than a restraining order solely affecting property interests;
- Has not, in the 10 years preceding the date of application, been adjudicated as having engaged in delinquent conduct violating a penal law of the grade of felony; and
- Has not made any material misrepresentation, or failed to disclose any material fact, in an application submitted pursuant to Section 411.174.
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Applying for a Texas LTC: Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a breakdown of how to complete your application:
Step 1: Submit an Online Application
Visit the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website to complete your application. You’ll need to provide:
- Personal information (name, address, work history plus additional details).
- Identification details, such as a driver’s license.
- $40 application payment, paid to Texas DPS.
- Reduced fees are available for military members, veterans, and senior citizens.
Step 2: Complete Fingerprinting
Once the online application is submitted through Texas DPS, you will receive an email from Identigo. This is the 3rd party service Texas DPS uses for fingerprinting.
The email contains a barcode and registration number needed for scheduling an appointment.
Step 3: Complete an LTC Training Course
Take a state-certified License to Carry class. The below two components are required to complete the training:
- Official Online License to Carry class
- Shooting Qualification and Range Instruction with any Texas LTC instructor
Step 4: Submit Required Documents
Prepare these essential documents:
- A certificate of completion from your LTC training course and shooting qualification.
- This will be an LTC-104 certificate
- Two certificates can be submitted if you have one from the online LTC class and a separate one from the shooting qualification/range instruction.
Step 5: Receive Your License
Once your background check is completed and your LTC approved, you’ll receive your official LTC card in the mail within 60 days. Congratulations—you’re now legally licensed to carry!
[Pro Tip]: Be sure to renew your license every 4 years. No training is required to renew, just submit a renewal application through the Texas DPS website.—–
Addressing Common Misconceptions About Texas LTC
Myth 1: An LTC is not longer needed with Texas Permitless Carry
While Texas laws allow permitless carry in some cases, this does not apply universally and is very limited. An LTC drastically expands where you can carry legally with added legal protections from the state. Anyone carrying a handgun for self-defense will benefit from still getting the LTC.
Myth 2: Non-Texas Residents Cannot Apply
Out-of-state applicants are eligible as long as they meet Texas LTC requirements and provide proper documentation.
Myth 3: LTC Certification Means Unlimited Carry
Holding a Texas LTC doesn’t exempt you from following laws from carrying in prohibited locations, such as schools, polling places, or hospitals. Always check local signage and state statutes.
Have more questions? Our online Texas LTC class covers all of these questions and more.
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Why Obtaining a Texas LTC is Worth It
Beyond legality, there are numerous benefits to obtaining your Texas License to Carry:
1. Expanded Carry Rights
Carrying with an LTC lets you bypass some of the restrictions placed on permitless carry, like carrying past no gun signs, on college campuses, gun free school zones and more.
2. Reciprocity in Other States
A Texas LTC allows you to legally carry in over 37 states that honor Texas licenses, making it perfect for frequent travelers.
3. Legal Protections
An LTC offers added credibility if a legal defense of your action is required. It indicates you’ve completed firearm safety and legal training. There are also multiple instances where having an LTC adds a defense to prosecution when violating carry law.
4. Bypass Background Checks
When purchasing a firearm in Texas, LTC holders bypass the background check typically required. This eliminates any possible delays or complications and creates a much smoother experience purchasing a gun.
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Know and Respect Your Rights
Carrying a handgun is a profound responsibility. By understanding the Texas License to Carry eligibility requirements, you’re already taking the first step toward becoming an educated and responsible gun owner.
Start your LTC class today, or share this guide with someone looking to learn more about responsible firearm ownership in Texas. Gun safety begins with informed choices.
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