Texas Handgun License

To get a Texas license to carry (LTC) a handgun, you must:

• Meet federal qualifications to purchase a handgun.

 

Information about specific eligibility can be found on the Texas Department of Public Safety Handgun Licensing website.

• Information on Licensing and Registration.
• Frequently Asked Questions on the application process.
• Frequently Asked Questions about eligibility.

 

How to apply for a license:

• Determine if you qualify for a discount through a "Special Condition" status and review eligibility and citizenship requirements.
• Apply online and pay required fees.
• Attend four to six hours of classroom training, and pass the written and firearm proficiency exams (unless not required due to a special condition application).
• Submit supporting documents including the Certificate of Training (LTC-100 or LTC-101) and all other documents listed in your receipt or email.
• Follow fingerprinting instructions.

 

When the application packet is completed and received by the Department of Public Safety, your license will issue within 60 days. 

An original LTC costs $40. Renewals cost $40. Fees are non-refundable and non-transferrable. 

Texas law does provide some discounts if you meet certain special conditions. See the complete list of fees along with the special conditions. 

You must attend a four to six hour in-person or online classroom training and pass a written examination with a certified instructor.

Classroom training will cover: 

• Laws related to weapons and the use of deadly force.
• Handgun use and safety, including controlling and securing openly carried handguns. 
• Non-violent dispute resolution.
• Safe storage.

 

After you pass the online classroom training, you'll need to show that you’re skilled at shooting a handgun by attending a range instruction class. Before you go, contact an instructor to know if you will need a handgun for the course.

Applicants for certification as a Texas License to Carry a Handgun Instructor must:  

• Meet eligibility criteria in Texas Government Code, §411.172 and §411.190.
• Meet federal rules to buy a handgun.
• Provide proof of certification to instruct others in handgun use (Texas Government Code §411.190) as listed below:
  • Certification by Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) as a firearm instructor.
  • Certification by the National Rifle Association as a firearm instructor.
  • Certification under Occupations Code Chapter 1702.
  • Proof of graduation from a certified, handgun instructor school.
• Submit a completed application and pay the fee.
• Submit the required supporting documents.
• Complete training.