Out in far West Texas, El Paso residents deal with long distances to just about everywhere — which is exactly why an online License to Carry course makes sense. East Texas Security Training Academy (ETXSTA) lets you complete the required classroom instruction from home and only travel once, for the in-person shooting test.
Two Parts, One Application
Texas DPS requires every LTC applicant to complete both an online classroom course and an in-person shooting proficiency test before a license is issued. ETXSTA delivers both pieces.
Classroom Instruction, Done Online
Work through the material at your own pace, covering:
- Texas firearm laws and regulations
- Use of force and self-defense law
- Safe firearm handling and storage
- Non-violent dispute resolution
- Proper interaction with law enforcement while carrying
Finish the modules and your LTC-104 Certificate of Training — the document DPS actually requires with your application — is ready to download the same day.
Shooting Proficiency, Done In Person
Schedule this portion with an ETXSTA-certified instructor in El Paso or a nearby location. You’ll shoot 50 rounds total:
- 3 yards – 20 rounds
- 7 yards – 20 rounds
- 15 yards – 10 rounds
A 70% score passes. If you need another shot at it, Texas allows up to three attempts at both the written test and the range test within a 12-month period. And remember, your training and proficiency certificates are valid for two years, but need to still be current the day you file your LTC application.
Some applicants are exempt from the range test entirely: active-duty military and veterans with a qualifying range score or firearms familiarization proof from the past 10 years, state correctional officers, and county jailers who completed firearms training on the job only need to finish the online course.
Who Qualifies
Texas law requires that every applicant:
- Is 18 or older
- Has no felony conviction
- Has no Class A or B misdemeanor conviction in the past 5 years
- Is not restricted by a protective or restraining order
- Has no pending criminal charges
- Is not a chemically dependent person
- Is qualified under state and federal law to possess a handgun
- Is of sound mind
- Is not finally determined delinquent on child support
Why Get Licensed in a Permitless-Carry State?
Constitutional carry means a permit isn’t required, but plenty of El Paso residents still choose to get one: an LTC brings reciprocity in 37 other states, extra legal protections, access to some places permitless carry doesn’t cover, and no NICS background check delay when buying from a dealer. ETXSTA has been the training provider El Paso residents turn to for a clear, no-hassle path to all of it.