How to Get Concealed Carry Permit in Texas

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding Texas License to Carry (LTC) vs. Permitless Carry
3. Eligibility Requirements for a Texas LTC
4. The Step-by-Step Application Process
5. Mastering the Shooting Proficiency Test
6. Gear Considerations for Concealed Carry
7. Legal "Off-Limits" Areas in Texas
8. Maintenance and Continued Training
9. Reciprocity: Taking Your Protection on the Road
10. Why Professional Curation Matters
11. Conclusion
12. FAQ

Introduction

Deciding to carry a firearm for self-defense is a significant step in your personal preparedness journey. Whether you are navigating the backcountry or moving through your daily commute, the ability to protect yourself and your family is a core tenet of self-reliance. While Texas allows permitless carry for eligible adults, obtaining a formal License to Carry (LTC) offers advantages that go beyond just the right to bear arms. At BattlBox, we believe that the best gear in the world is only as effective as the training and legal standing of the person using it. If you want expert-curated gear delivered monthly, subscribe to BattlBox. This guide breaks down the specific steps, legal requirements, and practical gear considerations for securing your Texas LTC. We will cover everything from the initial application to the proficiency test on the range, ensuring you move from a gun owner to a licensed and prepared citizen.

Understanding Texas License to Carry (LTC) vs. Permitless Carry

Before diving into the application process, it is important to understand why you would want a permit in a state that allows permitless carry. In September 2021, Texas passed House Bill 1927, commonly known as Constitutional Carry. This law allows most law-abiding citizens 21 and older to carry a handgun in public without a permit. However, the License to Carry (LTC) remains a highly valuable document for the serious practitioner of self-defense.

The LTC provides legal protections and conveniences that permitless carry does not. For example, an LTC holder can carry in states that recognize the Texas permit through reciprocity agreements. If you travel across state lines for camping or hunting trips, the Emergency Preparedness collection is a smart place to think beyond the permit and round out your setup. Additionally, having an LTC simplifies the process of purchasing a firearm. In Texas, a valid LTC allows you to bypass the NICS background check delay at the gun counter because the state has already vetted you.

Quick Answer: To get a concealed carry permit in Texas, you must complete an online application with the Department of Public Safety (DPS), attend a 4-to-6-hour training course, pass a written exam and a shooting proficiency test, and submit your fingerprints via Identogo.

Eligibility Requirements for a Texas LTC

To qualify for a Texas LTC, you must meet several state-mandated criteria. Texas is a "shall-issue" state, meaning that if you meet the legal requirements, the Department of Public Safety must issue the license. The criteria focus on your legal history, age, and mental health status.

• Age: You must be at least 21 years old. (Note: Recent court rulings have impacted this for those aged 18-20, but 21 remains the standard statutory requirement for most applicants).
• Criminal Record: You cannot have felony convictions or certain misdemeanor convictions (Class A or B) within the last five years.
• Legal Status: You must be a legal resident of the United States.
• Mental Health: You cannot be currently under a court protective order or have been adjudicated as having a mental illness that prevents the safe handling of a firearm.
• Child Support: You must be current on child support payments. If you are in arrears, the state may deny your application.

Key Takeaway: The Texas LTC is as much about proving your legal "good standing" as it is about firearm proficiency.

The Step-by-Step Application Process

The process for obtaining your permit is structured but requires you to coordinate between several different entities. It is best to follow these steps in order to avoid delays in your processing time.

Step 1: Submit the Online Application

Your first move is to visit the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website. Look for the Regulatory Services Division and select "Handgun Licensing." You will fill out a detailed questionnaire regarding your personal history, residence, and employment. During this phase, you will also pay the state application fee. This fee is standard, though discounts are available for veterans, active-duty military, and seniors.

Step 2: Schedule Fingerprinting

Once you submit your online application and pay the fee, the DPS will provide you with a receipt and instructions for fingerprinting. Texas uses a third-party service called Identogo for this process. You must schedule an appointment at one of their locations. They will electronically scan your fingerprints and send them directly to the DPS for a background check.

Step 3: Complete the LTC Training Course

You are required to take a training course taught by a DPS-certified instructor. This course usually lasts between four and six hours. Many instructors now offer the classroom portion online, which allows you to complete the lectures at your own pace. The course covers four mandatory modules:

1. Laws related to weapons and the use of force.
2. Handgun use and safety, including use of restraint holsters.
3. Non-violent dispute resolution.
4. Safe storage of firearms.

Step 4: Pass the Written Exam and Shooting Test

After the classroom instruction, you must pass a written exam based on the modules listed above. Following the exam, you will head to the range for the shooting proficiency test. You will need a handgun (revolver or semi-automatic) and 50 rounds of ammunition. The test consists of firing at a human-sized silhouette target from distances of three, seven, and fifteen yards.

Step 5: Submit Final Documentation

Once you pass your class and shooting test, your instructor will provide you with a form known as the LTC-100 (for in-person classes) or LTC-101 (for online classes). You must upload this document to the DPS portal to complete your file. After everything is submitted, the state typically has up to 60 days to issue your license.

Mastering the Shooting Proficiency Test

The shooting portion of the LTC process is not a "tactical" course, but it does require basic competency. You must score at least 175 out of a possible 250 points to pass. The scoring is based on where your shots land on the target, with more points awarded for center-mass hits.

The course of fire is broken down into three stages:

• 3-Yard Line: 20 rounds fired in various shot strings. This is the easiest portion and where you should secure most of your points.
• 7-Yard Line: 20 rounds fired. This requires more focus on trigger squeeze and sight alignment.
• 15-Yard Line: 10 rounds fired. At this distance, small errors in your grip or stance will result in missed points.

Note: While you can use a small-caliber handgun for the test, we recommend using the firearm you actually intend to carry. Familiarity with your specific gear is essential for safety and effectiveness.

Gear Considerations for Concealed Carry

Once you have your permit, the real work begins. Carrying a firearm daily requires a commitment to gear that is reliable, comfortable, and functional. At BattlBox, we curate gear that meets the demands of high-pressure situations, and your carry setup should be no different. Our team often sees gear that looks good but fails in the field; don’t let that be your carry rig. In our Advanced and Pro subscription tiers, we often include high-quality EDC tools that complement a self-defense mindset, so choose your BattlBox subscription when you are ready to build out the rest of your kit.

Choosing the Right Holster

The holster is the most critical piece of gear after the firearm itself. A good concealed carry holster must meet three criteria: it must cover the trigger guard completely, it must provide adequate retention so the gun doesn't fall out, and it must stay in place on your body.

• IWB (Inside the Waistband): The most common choice for concealed carry. It sits between your body and your pants.
• AIWB (Appendix Inside the Waistband): A popular method where the gun sits in front of the hip. It offers a very fast draw but requires a high level of comfort and safety awareness.
• OWB (Outside the Waistband): Easier to draw from but requires a cover garment like a jacket or long shirt to keep it concealed.

The Importance of a Gun Belt

Do not use a standard department store belt for concealed carry. A handgun and a loaded magazine add significant weight to your waistline. A purpose-built gun belt is reinforced with a plastic or metal core to prevent sagging. This keeps the firearm in the same position every time you reach for it, which is vital for building muscle memory during a draw.

Everyday Carry (EDC) Essentials

Carrying a gun is only part of the "prepared citizen" equation. Your EDC kit should be well-rounded, and the EDC collection is a natural place to build that layer. In our Advanced and Pro subscription tiers, we often include high-quality EDC tools that complement a self-defense mindset.

• Handheld Flashlight: Most defensive encounters happen in low-light conditions. A bright, reliable light helps you identify threats before they become a problem, and the Powertac SOL LED Rechargeable Keychain Light is a compact option built for everyday carry.
• Spare Magazine: Mechanical failures happen, and magazines are the most common point of failure for semi-automatic pistols. Carrying a spare provides extra rounds and a backup for your primary magazine.
• Medical Gear: If you carry a tool that can make holes, you should carry gear that can plug them. A compact tourniquet and hemostatic gauze should be part of your daily kit, and the Adventure Medical Ultralight/Watertight .9 Medical Kit is worth a look.

Bottom line: Your carry setup is a system. The gun, the holster, the belt, and the medical gear must all work together to provide a comprehensive safety net. For a deeper look at when that kind of bleeding-control tool belongs in your kit, What is a Tourniquet? is a useful next read.

Legal "Off-Limits" Areas in Texas

Even with a Texas LTC, you cannot carry a firearm everywhere. Texas law is very specific about "prohibited places." Violating these laws can lead to the immediate revocation of your license and potential criminal charges.

Places where carry is strictly prohibited include:

• Schools and educational institutions (unless you are a designated school marshal).
• Polling places on election day.
• Courthouses and court offices.
• Racetracks (like horse or dog racing).
• Secured areas of airports.
• Bars or businesses that derive 51% or more of their income from the sale of alcohol for on-premises consumption (look for the red 51% sign).
• High school, collegiate, or professional sporting events.
• Correctional facilities.

Private Property and Signs: In Texas, private businesses can prohibit firearms by posting specific signs. The 30.06 sign prohibits concealed carry, while the 30.07 sign prohibits open carry. If you see a 30.06 sign, you must leave your firearm in your vehicle or choose not to enter the establishment.

Maintenance and Continued Training

Getting your permit is the beginning, not the end. Firearm skills are perishable. If you do not practice, your speed and accuracy will diminish over time. We recommend visiting the range at least once a month to run through the LTC proficiency course or more advanced drills.

Dry Fire Practice: You don't always need to spend money on ammo to get better. Dry fire—practicing your draw and trigger press with an unloaded firearm in a safe environment—is one of the best ways to build skill. Practice drawing from your actual holster while wearing your daily clothes. This helps you identify if your shirt gets caught or if your holster position needs adjustment. If you want a broader breakdown of everyday carry organization, What Is an EDC Bag? is a useful place to start.

Gear Maintenance: Your carry firearm is exposed to body heat, sweat, and lint every day. These elements can cause rust or mechanical sluggishness. Clean and oil your firearm weekly, even if you haven't fired it. Check your holster screws to ensure they haven't loosened over time. If you want more compact carry ideas, Best Multitools for Everyday Carry (EDC) is a solid next step.

Myth: "Once I pass the test, I'm an expert marksman." Fact: The LTC test is a baseline of safety and basic competency. Real-world proficiency requires ongoing, dedicated training.

Reciprocity: Taking Your Protection on the Road

One of the primary benefits of the Texas LTC is reciprocity. This refers to agreements between states to recognize each other's carry permits. As of now, a Texas LTC is recognized in over 30 states.

Before traveling, always check the laws of the states you will be passing through. Some states recognize the Texas permit but have different laws regarding magazine capacity or where you can legally carry. For example, some states may require you to notify a law enforcement officer immediately if you are stopped and carrying a weapon, whereas Texas law is slightly more nuanced on the timing of that notification. If you want more ideas for building a road-ready kit, Top 5 Battlbox Products to Take On Your Next Camping Trip is a useful next step.

Why Professional Curation Matters

When you are building your self-defense and survival kit, the sheer volume of options can be overwhelming. There are thousands of holsters, lights, and knives on the market, and a compact tool like the Flextail Tiny Tool - Ultimate 26-in-1 EDC Tool fits the same ready-for-anything mindset. Our mission at BattlBox is to cut through that noise.

From the Basic tier, which provides entry-level essentials, to the Pro Plus tier, which features premium blades from brands like Kershaw, Spyderco, and TOPS, we provide the tools you need to stay prepared. If you want to shop the most relevant edge options, the Fixed Blades collection is a strong place to start.

For a clear framework on what matters first in the field, The Survival 13 is a useful read.

Conclusion

Getting a concealed carry permit in Texas is a straightforward process that offers immense benefits for the responsible citizen. By following the steps—applying online, completing the training, and passing the proficiency test—you gain legal protections and the ability to carry across state lines. Remember that the permit is just the foundation. Your effectiveness depends on the quality of your gear, the consistency of your training, and your understanding of the law. Stay sharp, stay prepared, and continue to build the skills that keep you and your loved ones safe. For a broader look at how BattlBox approaches everyday readiness, Must-Have EDC Gadgets for Everyday Preparedness is a great place to continue.

• Submit your application to the Texas DPS website.
• Complete your 4-6 hour LTC training course.
• Invest in a high-quality holster and reinforced gun belt.
• Practice your draw and shooting fundamentals regularly.

"The Texas LTC is more than a permit; it is a commitment to personal responsibility and the ongoing pursuit of proficiency."

To find the best EDC gear and survival tools for your carry setup, explore our collection or subscribe to BattlBox to get expert-curated gear delivered monthly.

FAQ

How long does it take to get a Texas LTC after I apply?

Once you have submitted your online application, fingerprints, and training certificates, the Texas Department of Public Safety generally has 60 days to issue your license. Many applicants receive their plastic permit in the mail within 3 to 5 weeks if there are no issues with their background check.

Do I need to own a gun to take the Texas LTC class?

No, you do not necessarily need to own a gun before the class, as many instructors offer rentals for the shooting proficiency portion. However, it is highly recommended that you take the test with the firearm you intend to carry so you are familiar with its controls and recoil.

Is the Texas LTC class hard to pass?

The written exam and shooting proficiency test are designed to ensure basic safety and competency rather than expert-level marksmanship. Most people who have spent a moderate amount of time at the range and pay attention during the legal modules of the class find the tests very manageable.

Can I carry my handgun openly in Texas with an LTC?

Yes, a Texas License to Carry allows you to carry your handgun either concealed or openly in a holster. While permitless carry also allows for open carry, having the LTC provides you with more clarity and legal standing when navigating areas where carrying might otherwise be restricted.