Texas Carry Laws
Texas Carry Laws change from time to time and it’s important to be aware of those changes so you can be compliant with the law. There are many common misconceptions about recent changes, such as the “Constitutional Carry” law, etc… Individuals who are carrying unlicensed, need to be aware of the restrictions placed on them under the law so they do not break the law.
Unlicensed Carry Laws
In 2021, Texas passed HB 1927, which eliminated the legal need for a LTC to carry a handgun. There are different rules for licensed and unlicensed carriers. One notable difference is when carrying next to schools and colleges. Individuals may also need the LTC in order to be compliant with out of state reciprocity laws when traveling to other states.
Texas Licensed To Carry (LTC) Laws
Some of the benefits that come with having a LTC are:
| Carry on a Premises | Airport: License holders have protections related to the accidental carrying of a firearm in the secured area. Business: Businesses may choose to allow licensed carry on their premises. Government Meetings: License holders can carry in a meeting. University Campuses: License still required to carry on university campuses; “Campus Carry” is unchanged. |
| Cost | $40.00: Valid for five years ($8.00 per year). |
| Handgun Purchasing | License can be used as an alternative to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) check. |
| ID Designation | Instructor: ID can be used for proof of certification as a Texas Handgun License instructor. Judge/Prosecutor: ID can be used for identification purposes. Veteran: ID can be used to obtain discounts at local establishments offering discounts to veterans. |
| Personal Identification | Personal Identification: The license must be accepted by most businesses as a valid form of personal identification. Voter ID: The license is a designated document for voter ID. |
| State Reciprocity | Texas Handgun License holders can carry firearms in states where Texas has a reciprocity agreement or state law recognizes the Texas Handgun license.A list of states with reciprocal agreements/state law recognition with Texas can be found at the following link: State Reciprocity Information. |
| Training | Required to apply for a Handgun License. Conducted by a licensed Texas Handgun Instructor. |
Duty To Inform
Section 411.205 of the Texas Government Code requires that individuals who are carrying a firearm with a LTC show both their Driver’s License and their LTC to a Peace Officer if it is requested. If the LTC is designated with a Protective Order Designation, that must also be presented to the officer.
Obtaining your LTC
There are many benefits to obtaining your LTC and the Trigger Maestro highly recommends you “pull the trigger” and get started today. We have a simple and self paced online format that is affordable and perfect for you!
