Texas concealed carry at a glance
Texas allows eligible adults to carry a concealed handgun in public with a License to Carry (LTC), issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). To qualify, you must be at least 21 (18 for active duty or retired military), be a U.S. citizen or legal resident, meet state and federal prohibitions, and complete a DPS-approved training course. With an LTC, you can carry a handgun in most public places, subject to specific locations where carrying is prohibited. This overview covers who can carry, how to apply, where restrictions apply, reciprocity, and key compliance steps.
Eligibility and requirements to carry concealed in Texas
Texas law sets both minimum and disqualifying conditions. Meeting the basic criteria does not guarantee issuance; each application is reviewed by DPS.
Minimum eligibility
- Be at least 21 years old at the time of application (or 18 if you are an active duty or retired law enforcement officer or military member).
- Be a U.S. citizen, a permanent resident who has completed the statutory waiting period, or a temporary legal resident who is a Lawful Permanent Resident and meets all other requirements.
- Not be prohibited by state or federal law from possessing a firearm.
- Complete a DPS-approved LTC course and pass the required tests.
Disqualifying factors (examples)
- Felony convictions or certain misdemeanor family violence offenses.
- Adjudicated mental deficiency or involuntary hospitalization related to mental health.
- Current or pending charges for crimes involving family violence or certain other offenses.
- Restraining order related to family violence.
- Alcohol or drug-related offenses within the preceding five years.
The application and licensing process
To obtain an LTC, you must apply through the Texas DPS, complete training, and pay the applicable fee. Licenses are typically valid for five years, with renewals possible within 180 days before expiration for eligible applicants.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | $40 (credit/debit cards accepted online or by mail) | Texas DPS |
| Training course | DPS-approved classroom and range instruction (minimum hours set by DPS) | Texas DPS |
| Validity | 5 years | Texas DPS |
| Renewal window | Up to 180 days before expiration; no range or classroom requirement for renewals unless your license has been expired for more than 180 days | Texas DPS |
| Processing time | Variable; online tracking available after submission | Texas DPS |
Where you can and cannot carry a concealed handgun in Texas
An LTC authorizes concealed carry in most public areas, but Texas law clearly lists locations where carrying is prohibited or restricted. Knowing these places helps you avoid criminal charges and private nuisance claims.
Locations where concealed carry is generally prohibited
- Schools and school buses; school property within a specified distance of school premises.
- Correctional facilities, jail, and state hospitals.
- Courthouses and offices of probation and community supervision.
- Polls places on election day (you may possess a handgun in your car in these areas).
- Certain bars and establishments primarily engaged in selling alcohol for on-premises consumption; carry is allowed only if not intoxicated and the license holder has a valid exception under specific rules.
- Federal properties where federal law prohibits firearms, even with a state license.
- Airports, including secure areas and, typically, passenger screening areas; possession on an aircraft is strictly prohibited.
Even where not listed as prohibited, private property owners may post signs prohibiting handguns. Businesses that hold an Alcohol Beverage Commission (ABC) permit can generally ban concealed carry on the premises if they comply with statutory signage and posting rules.
Reciprocity and recognition of out-of-state permits
Texas honors permits issued by a growing list of states. If your permit is not from a reciprocating state, or if you are a nonresident, you may still carry under certain conditions, but the rules differ for residents and nonresidents. You are generally prohibited from carrying in any of the places listed above, regardless of where your permit was issued.
| Permit type | Recognized? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Texas LTC | Yes | Valid for five years; allows concealed carry in most places except prohibited locations. |
| Out-of-state permit from reciprocating state | Yes | Valid for the duration of the permit; same prohibited places apply. |
| Nonresident without reciprocating permit | Generally no | Carry typically not allowed unless you meet specific exceptions (e.g., active military on orders). |
Use of force, duty to retreat, and castle doctrine
Texas law provides broad rights for self-defense, but the rules for when and how you may use a firearm are strict. In most public places, you generally have a duty to retreat if you can safely do so before using deadly force. There are key exceptions, often summarized as the castle doctrine, where retreat is not required.
- You do not have a duty to retreat when you are in, or immediately fleeing, your home (residence), vehicle, or occupied place of business.
- You may use force, including deadly force, when necessary to defend yourself against unlawful force, certain crimes (such as kidnapping, sexual assault, or robbery), or to prevent a fleeing suspect from escaping if they have committed or attempted to commit certain violent crimes.
- Self-defense claims must still satisfy elements of reasonableness, including the threat being imminent and the level of force being objectively justified.
Vehicles, long guns, and related rules
An LTC allows you to carry a concealed handgun on your person, including while in a vehicle, if you are not engaged in criminal activity. In Texas, a loaded handgun may be carried openly without a license in many situations, but concealed carry without a license is generally unlawful except under narrow exceptions. Long guns (rifles and shotguns) may be carried in vehicles and in public, but the same restrictions on prohibited places apply.
Compliance and responsibilities
Holding an LTC in Texas is a serious responsibility. Carrying in a prohibited place, carrying while intoxicated, or failing to follow lawful orders from peace officers can result in criminal charges. When interacting with law enforcement, inform them that you carry a concealed handgun if asked, keep your hands visible, and follow instructions carefully. Safe storage and ongoing training help reduce risk and support responsible ownership.
Summary of key points
In Texas, carrying a concealed handgun is lawful for eligible adults who hold a License to Carry (LTC). The process involves meeting age and legal requirements, completing an approved training course, and paying the fee. Once issued, the LTC is generally valid for five years. Carrying is permitted in most public areas, with important exceptions such as schools, courthouses, certain bars, federal properties, and airports. Private businesses may prohibit concealed carry, and rules on use of force, retreat, and self-defense defenses are strict. Understanding these rules helps you carry lawfully and safely.