Question 1

Can 18 year olds get a LTC ?

Accepted Answer

Certain eligible 18 year olds are able to get a Texas LTC.

Question 2

How can I schedule my fingerprints for the Texas License to Carry (LTC)?

Accepted Answer

Once you've submitted your Texas License to Carry (LTC) application, you'll get instructions on how to schedule your fingerprinting. This is currently done at Identigo and costs around $10. The appointment is quick and usually takes about 10-15 minutes.

Question 3

Does Texas Have Constitutional Carry?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Texas has "constitutional carry," which went into effect on September 1, 2021. This law allows most Texans who are 21 years of age or older to carry a handgun—either openly in a holster or concealed—without needing a license to carry (LTC). However, certain restrictions and conditions still apply, such as background checks for purchasing firearms and prohibitions on carrying in certain locations (e.g., schools, government buildings, etc.).
Despite the constitutional carry law, many Texans still choose to obtain an LTC because it offers several advantages, including reciprocity with other states, the ability to carry in certain places that are off-limits to unlicensed carriers, and quicker background checks when purchasing firearms.

Question 4

How do I find a local instructor for the shooting portion ?

Accepted Answer

Our partner: Point Blank CHL has a local instructor finder on their website in order to easily find a qualified license to carry instructor locally to take your qualification with.

Question 5

Who is exempt from the shooting portion of the LTC class?

Accepted Answer

In Texas, certain individuals are exempt from the shooting proficiency portion of the License to Carry (LTC) class. These exemptions generally apply to individuals who have demonstrated firearm proficiency through their current or former roles. The following groups are typically exempt:

Active Duty Military and Veterans: If you are an active duty military member or a veteran who has received firearms training as part of your service, you may be exempt. Proof of military service, such as a DD-214 form, may be required to verify this exemption.
Texas Peace Officers: Current Texas peace officers who have completed a law enforcement firearms training course are exempt from the shooting portion.
Retired Texas Peace Officers: Retired peace officers from Texas may also be exempt if they can provide proof of prior firearms training and certification during their law enforcement career.
Certain Correctional Officers: Correctional officers employed by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) who have received firearms training as part of their job may be exempt.
Even if exempt, these individuals are still required to complete the classroom portion of the LTC course, which covers Texas laws related to carrying firearms, use of force, and other important topics.

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Question 6

Can I take the Texas License to Carry (LTC) class online?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can take the Texas License to Carry (LTC) class online! We partner with a state-licensed online course provider and offer their class at a special discounted rate for you. Enroll now and start learning at your own pace!

Question 7

How do I change the name on my LTC?

Accepted Answer

To change your name on your Texas License to Carry (LTC), you need to follow these steps:
1. Gather Required Documents:
Legal Name Change Document: You must provide a certified copy of the court order for a name change, a marriage certificate, or a divorce decree that indicates your new legal name.
2. Complete the Name Change Form:
Visit the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website and download the "CHL-70" form, which is the Application for Name or Address Change. You can also complete this process online through the Texas DPS's online portal if you have an account.
3. Submit the Form and Documents:
If submitting by mail, complete the CHL-70 form and send it along with your certified legal document proving the name change to the following address:
Texas Department of Public SafetyHandgun Licensing Program, MSC 0245 P.O. Box 4087 Austin, TX 78773-0245
If completing the process online, upload your legal document when prompted and follow the instructions provided on the DPS website.
4. Pay the Fee:
A fee of $25 is required for a name change on your LTC. This can be paid online if using the DPS portal, or you can include a check or money order if submitting by mail.
5. Wait for Processing:
After submitting your application and payment, the DPS will process your name change request. Once approved, you will receive an updated LTC card with your new name.
6. Carry Your Updated LTC:
Make sure to carry your updated LTC once you receive it, as it will reflect your legal name change.

For any questions or assistance, you can contact the Texas DPS Handgun Licensing Program directly.

Question 8

How do I submit my forms To DPS ?

Accepted Answer

1. Online Submission:
Log In: Go to the DPS Online Portal, log in or create an account.
Upload Documents: Select your task, upload required documents, and pay any fees.
Submit: Review and submit the form. Save the confirmation.
2. Mail Submission:
Fill Out Forms: Complete the required form and gather any supporting documents.
Include Payment: Attach a check or money order if there's a fee.
Mail: Send everything to the DPS address:
Texas Department of Public SafetyHandgun Licensing Program, MSC 0245P.O. Box 4087Austin, TX 78773-0245
3. In-Person (if available):
Visit DPS Office: Take your completed forms and documents to a DPS office.
Submit: Hand them to the clerk for processing.

Question 9

How do I replace a lost License ?

Accepted Answer

To replace a lost License to Carry (LTC) in Texas, follow these steps:
1. Online Replacement:
Log In: Visit the Texas DPS Handgun Licensing Online Portal and log in to your account.
Request Replacement: Select the option for "Replace Lost License."
Pay the Fee: There is typically a $25 fee for replacing a lost LTC. Pay this online.
Submit Request: Confirm your information and submit the replacement request. You’ll receive a confirmation, and your replacement license will be mailed to you.
2. Mail-in Replacement:
Complete Form: Download and fill out the "CHL-70" form for lost or stolen licenses.
Include Payment: Attach a check or money order for $25, payable to the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Mail to DPS:
Texas Department of Public SafetyHandgun Licensing Program, MSC 0245P.O. Box 4087Austin, TX 78773-0245
3. In-Person Replacement (if applicable):
Visit DPS Office: Go to a local DPS office that handles handgun licensing.
Submit Request: Fill out the necessary form, pay the fee, and request a replacement license.

After submission, your replacement LTC will be processed and mailed to you.

Question 10

Do I have to be a Texas resident to get a Texas LTC ?

Accepted Answer

No, you do not have to be a Texas resident to obtain a Texas License to Carry (LTC). Texas allows non-residents to apply for an LTC, but there are a few specific requirements for non-resident applicants:

Requirements for Non-Residents:
Age Requirement: You must be at least 21 years old (or 18 if you're a member or veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces).
Eligibility: You must meet all the eligibility requirements for a Texas resident, such as having no felony convictions, being legally able to possess a firearm, and not being chemically dependent.
Provide Proof of State Residency: You must provide a valid government-issued photo ID from your home state.
Fingerprinting: Non-residents must still undergo the same fingerprinting process as Texas residents. This can usually be done at an approved facility near your location.
Complete Required Training: You must complete the Texas LTC training course, which includes classroom instruction which you can take online with us, and a shooting proficiency test. Shooting portion must be done in Texas. 
Submit Application: You can apply online through the Texas DPS Handgun Licensing Online Portal or by mail, just like a resident.

Once approved, your Texas LTC will be valid in Texas and in other states that recognize Texas permits, depending on reciprocity agreements.

Question 11

How do I change the address on my license to carry ?

Accepted Answer

To change the address on your Texas License to Carry (LTC), follow these steps:

1. Online Address Change:
Log In: Visit the Texas DPS Handgun Licensing Online Portal, and log in to your account.
Select Address Change: Choose the option to update your address.
Enter New Address: Provide your new address information.
Pay the Fee: A $25 fee is required for processing the address change. Pay this online.
Submit: Review your information and submit the request. Your updated LTC will be mailed to your new address.
2. Mail-in Address Change:
Complete Form: Download and fill out the "CHL-70" form for a name or address change.
Include Payment: Attach a check or money order for $25, payable to the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Mail to DPS:
Texas Department of Public SafetyHandgun Licensing Program, MSC 0245P.O. Box 4087Austin, TX 78773-0245
3. In-Person Address Change (if applicable):
Visit DPS Office: Go to a DPS office that handles handgun licensing.
Submit Form: Complete the necessary form, pay the fee, and request the address change in person.

Once processed, your updated LTC will be sent to your new address.

Question 12

What is the number to the DPS handgun licensing division ?

Accepted Answer

The contact number for the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Handgun Licensing Division is:

(512) 424-7293

This number is available during regular business hours for inquiries related to License to Carry (LTC) applications, renewals, address changes, and other handgun licensing matters.

Question 13

How can I apply for my Texas License to Carry (LTC)?

Accepted Answer

If you meet all the requirements, you can easily apply for your Texas License to Carry (LTC) by taking our online class. Click here to get started!

Question 14

What class do I take to get my license to carry ?

Accepted Answer

You can take this class here to get your LTC today!

Question 15

Do I need a license to open carry in Texas ?

Accepted Answer

In Texas, you do not need a license to open carry a handgun due to the state's "constitutional carry" law, which took effect on September 1, 2021. This law allows most individuals who are 21 years of age or older and who are legally allowed to possess a firearm to carry a handgun openly or concealed without a license.

Key Points:
Age Requirement: You must be at least 21 years old (or 18 if you're a member or veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces).
Legal Eligibility: You must not have any legal prohibitions against possessing firearms (e.g., felony convictions, certain misdemeanors, etc.).
Holster Requirement: If carrying openly, the handgun must be in a shoulder or belt holster.
Restricted Areas: Even with constitutional carry, you cannot carry in certain places such as schools, government buildings, and private businesses that prohibit firearms.
Why Get a License to Carry (LTC)?
Even though a license is not required, obtaining a Texas LTC offers benefits:
Reciprocity: An LTC allows you to carry in other states that recognize Texas permits.
Expanded Carry Rights: LTC holders can carry in more places than those without a license.
Background Check Exemption: LTC holders may bypass the background check when purchasing firearms in Texas.

While you can legally open carry without a license, having an LTC can still be advantageous.

Question 16

How do I renew my Texas license to carry ?

Accepted Answer

To renew your Texas License to Carry (LTC), follow these steps:
1. Online Renewal:
Log In: Visit the Texas DPS Handgun Licensing Online Portal and log in to your account.
Select Renewal: Choose the option to renew your LTC.
Update Information: Review and update your personal information if necessary.
Pay the Renewal Fee: The standard renewal fee is $40, but this can vary based on your age, military status, or other factors. Pay this fee online.
Submit the Application: Once you've completed the necessary steps, submit your renewal application.
Receive Confirmation: After submitting, you'll receive a confirmation, and your renewed LTC will be mailed to you once processed.
2. Renewal by Mail (if applicable):
Receive Renewal Notice: Texas DPS typically sends a renewal notice by mail. Follow the instructions provided.
Complete the Renewal Form: Fill out the renewal form included in your notice.
Include Payment: Attach a check or money order for the renewal fee, payable to the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Mail to DPS:
Texas Department of Public SafetyHandgun Licensing Program, MSC 0245P.O. Box 4087Austin, TX 78773-0245
3. In-Person Renewal (if applicable):
Visit DPS Office: You can visit a DPS office that handles handgun licensing if you'd prefer to renew in person.
Submit the Form: Complete and submit your renewal form, pay the fee, and wait for your renewed license.
Important Notes:
Renew Early: You can renew your LTC up to 6 months before its expiration date, and up to 12 months after it expires (though you cannot legally carry once it's expired until renewed).

After your application is processed, your renewed LTC will be mailed to you.

Question 17

Can I take the LTC class if I am under 21 ?

Accepted Answer

In Texas, you generally must be at least 21 years old to apply for a License to Carry (LTC). However, there is an exception for active duty military members and veterans who are at least 18 years old.
Key Points:
General Age Requirement: 21 years old.
Exception: If you are 18, 19, or 20 years old and are currently serving in the U.S. military or are an honorably discharged veteran, you can apply for an LTC.
Taking the LTC Class:
Under 21 but Eligible: If you fall under the exception (military or veteran status), you can take the LTC class and apply for your license.
Under 21 and Not Eligible: If you are under 21 and do not qualify under the military or veteran exception, you can still take the LTC class to prepare, but you won't be able to apply for the LTC until you turn 21.

Taking the class early can be beneficial, as it allows you to gain the necessary knowledge and training so that you can apply for the license as soon as you are eligible.

Question 18

How long will it take to receive my Texas license to carry ?

Accepted Answer

The processing time for receiving a Texas License to Carry (LTC) can vary, but generally, it takes about 60 days from the time the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) receives your completed application, fingerprints, and required documents.
Steps and Timeframes:
Application Submission: Once you submit your application online or by mail, and complete your fingerprinting and LTC class, DPS begins processing your application.
Background Check: DPS will conduct a thorough background check. This process typically takes a few weeks but can take longer if there are any issues or delays.
Issuance of License: If your application is approved, DPS will issue your LTC and mail it to you.
Potential Delays:
Incomplete Application: Missing documents or incomplete information can delay processing.
Background Check Issues: Any issues with your background check, such as needing additional information or clarifications, can extend the timeframe.
High Volume: During periods of high application volume, processing times may be longer.

If it has been more than 60 days since you submitted all required materials and you haven't received your LTC, you may want to contact the Texas DPS Handgun Licensing Division to check on the status of your application.

Question 19

Do I need my own handgun to take the LTC class ?

Accepted Answer

No, you do not necessarily need to have your own handgun to take a Texas License to Carry (LTC) class. Many LTC instructors and training facilities provide handguns for students to use during the shooting proficiency portion of the class. However, it’s always a good idea to check with the specific instructor or facility beforehand to confirm whether they offer this option and if there are any additional costs involved.
If You Don’t Have Your Own Handgun:
Instructor-Provided Firearms: Many instructors will have handguns available for students to use during the class.
Ammunition: If using a provided handgun, you may need to purchase or bring the appropriate ammunition.
Rental Fees: Some instructors may charge a small rental fee for the use of their firearms.
If You Have Your Own Handgun:
Bring Your Handgun: You can bring your own handgun if you have one. Make sure it is in good working condition and that you have the correct ammunition.
Familiarity: Using your own handgun can be beneficial, as you may be more familiar with it.
Whether you use your own handgun or one provided by the instructor, the key is to focus on safety and meeting the proficiency requirements during the class.

Question 20

What type of handgun do I need for the Texas License to Carry (LTC) class?

Accepted Answer

For the Texas License to Carry (LTC) class, you can use either a revolver or a semi-automatic handgun. Here are the basic guidelines:

**Handgun Requirements:**
- **Caliber:** Must be at least .22 caliber or higher. Common calibers include .380 ACP, 9mm, .40 S&W, or .45 ACP.
- **Condition:** Should be in good working condition, clean, functional, and safe to operate.

**Type of Handgun:**
- **Revolver:** Qualifying with a revolver allows you to carry either a revolver or a semi-automatic.
- **Semi-Automatic:** Qualifying with a semi-automatic allows you to carry both types.

**Capacity:** No minimum magazine capacity requirement, but have enough magazines or speed loaders to complete the shooting test without delays.

**Holster:** Recommended (and often required) to bring a holster, especially if the course includes holster draw techniques.

**Ammunition:**
- **Quantity:** Bring at least 50 rounds for the shooting test. Check with your instructor for specific requirements.
- **Type:** Use standard, factory-loaded ammunition. Avoid reloaded or specialty ammo unless approved by the instructor.

**Handgun Recommendations:**
- **Semi-Automatic:** A 9mm semi-automatic is commonly used due to manageable recoil and wide ammo availability.
- **Revolver:** A .38 Special revolver is a good choice if you prefer revolvers.

Practice with the handgun you plan to use to ensure comfort and proficiency. If you don’t own a handgun, some instructors offer rentals. Inquire about this option if needed.

Frequently asked questions