Benefits of a Texas License to Carry (LTC)
A License to Carry (LTC) in Texas provides several key advantages, beyond the right to carry a handgun legally. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits for Texas LTC holders:
1. Expanded Carry Rights
- Open & Concealed Carry
- With an LTC, you can carry a handgun openly (in a shoulder or belt holster) or concealed, even in some areas where unlicensed carry is restricted.
- More Locations: LTC holders in Texas can carry in more places, including certain businesses and establishments serving alcohol (unless explicitly prohibited).
2. Faster Background Checks for Gun Purchases
- Skip Background Checks: With an LTC, you can bypass the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) for firearm purchases, making the process quicker and more convenient.
3. Reciprocity with Other States
- Carry Across State Lines: Texas has reciprocity agreements with many states, allowing LTC holders in Texas to legally carry in these states.
4. Legal Protections & Advantages
- Strengthened Legal Standing: In self-defense situations, an LTC can enhance your legal standing as a responsible gun owner in Texas.
- Presumptions in Court: LTC holders are often presumed to have a higher degree of firearm knowledge and safety training. Holding a license to carry can be beneficial in legal situations.
5. Access to Restricted Areas
- More Carry Locations: Licensed carriers may carry in certain restricted areas, including public universities (under Texas’ Campus Carry law) and some public buildings, unless otherwise posted.
6. Required Training for Confidence & Responsibility
- Mandatory Training: Texas requires LTC applicants to pass a background check, safety training, and shooting proficiency test, enhancing confidence and responsibility.
7. Enhanced Safety for Yourself and Others
- Safety Knowledge: LTC training covers firearm handling, safety practices, inn addition to legal responsibilities. This training will help you handle potentially dangerous situations effectively.
8. Lower Penalties for Certain Violations
- Reduced Consequences for Minor Violations including accidentally carrying in a restricted area. LTC holders in Texas often face lesser penalties than unlicensed carriers.
Why Get an LTC Even with Constitutional Carry?
Texas allows permitless carry in many situations. In Texas an LTC still offers greater flexibility, legality, and ease of carrying firearms, in Texas and when traveling.
Considering an LTC? It’s a worthwhile investment that provides extra protections and privileges for responsible gun owners.
How to become Licensed to Carry (LTC) in Texas
Eligibility Requirements
You must meet both federal and state criteria, including:
- Be at least 18 years old
- No disqualifying felony convictions, serious misdemeanors (Class A or B), unresolved charges, DUI/substance dependency, or chemical dependency within defined timelines
- Not under protective or restraining orders, or delinquent on taxes, child support, or related court-ordered payments
- For non-Texas residents, proof of lawful presence (driver’s license/ID, passport photos, LTC‑6 form) is required
1. Complete Classroom & Range Training
- Take our License to Carry Online course of DPS-approved instruction, covering firearm law, use/safety, holster training, conflict resolution, and storage
- Pass the online exam
- Demonstrate proficiency at a shooting range: 50 rounds fired across 3 yds, 7 yds, and 15 yds
- Upon completion, you’ll receive a certificate: LTC‑100, LTC‑101 (online + range), or LTC‑104 depending on course type
2. Submit Online Application via Texas DPS
- Go to the Texas DPS Handgun Licensing website and select “Apply for a new LTC”
- You’ll need: driver’s license or ID number, past 5 years of addresses and employment, any criminal history details, and payment (standard fee is $40)
- Optionally you can donate to the Veterans’ Assistance Fund during checkout
- Save or print the confirmation and watch for emails from DPS and Identigo (remember to check your spam folders!)
3. Fingerprinting (Identigo)
- Use the Identogo code and link provided via email to schedule an appointment (walk-ins are not accepted)
- Fee is usually around $10 and locations are scattered across TX
- Fingerprints are sent automatically to DPS for the background check
4. Submit Certificate & Supporting Documents
- After training and fingerprinting, You will need to upload your LTC‑101/LTC‑100 certificate and any additional documents (e.g. DD‑214 for veterans, proof of legal presence) via the DPS licensing portal
5. Processing & Wait Time
- DPS states up to 60 days for processing, but current times tend to be 2–4 weeks
- If DPS needs extra information, the process may extend by another 180 days; prompt response is critical