Texas passed permitless carry (also called constitutional carry) in 2021, which means Texans who are 21 or older and legally eligible to possess a firearm can now carry a handgun — openly or concealed — in most public places without a License to Carry. So why would you still want an LTC in 2026?
The short answer: reciprocity, retail access, and peace of mind.
Why the Texas LTC Still Matters
Even with permitless carry in effect, a Texas License to Carry gives you several practical advantages:
Reciprocity with other states. Permitless carry only applies within Texas. If you cross into Louisiana, New Mexico, Arkansas, or dozens of other states, you need a recognized license to carry legally. Texas has reciprocity agreements with approximately 40 states — meaning your LTC is valid there. Without it, you're confined to Texas or states that recognize permitless carry, which is a much shorter list.
Access to certain businesses and venues. Some private businesses and venues have policies that treat license holders differently from permitless carriers. Knowing your legal status is unambiguous can matter in gray-area situations.
Background check bypass at retail. Texas LTC holders are exempt from the federal NICS background check when purchasing a firearm from a licensed dealer. This can speed up transactions significantly.
Carries weight if questioned by law enforcement. An LTC signals that you've completed a background check and training — which can simplify interactions.
The Texas LTC Training Requirement
To qualify for a Texas LTC, you must complete a state-approved handgun proficiency course. The training requirement is four to six hours, depending on the instructor and course format.
What the classroom portion covers:
- Texas laws on use of force and deadly force
- Handgun safety rules (loading, unloading, storage)
- Non-violent dispute resolution
- Proper storage to prevent access by children
- Handgun proficiency requirements
The live-fire qualification: After classroom instruction, students complete a shooting proficiency test. Texas uses a standardized qualification course of fire:
- 20 rounds fired from 3 yards
- 20 rounds fired from 7 yards
- 10 rounds fired from 15 yards
A score of 70% or higher (35 out of 50 rounds in a scoring zone) is required to pass. The targets are B-27 silhouettes. Most first-time students pass without difficulty.
Your instructor will issue a Certificate of Handgun Proficiency (form LTC-100) after you complete both the classroom and range portions.
The Application Process (Step by Step)
Step 1 — Complete an approved training course. Book a course with a Texas DPS-approved instructor. You'll receive the LTC-100 certificate at the end.
Step 2 — Submit your application online. Go to the Texas DPS Concealed Handgun portal (txdps.state.tx.us) and create an account. The online application walks you through eligibility questions and collects your personal information.
Step 3 — Submit fingerprints. You'll be directed to schedule a fingerprinting appointment with IdentoGo (the state's authorized vendor). Fingerprints are submitted electronically and tied to your application.
Step 4 — Pay the fee. The current Texas LTC fee is approximately $40 for most applicants. Military veterans may qualify for a reduced or waived fee.
Step 5 — Wait for processing. Texas DPS typically processes LTC applications within 60 days of receiving your complete application and fingerprints. Many applicants receive their license in 30–45 days. You can check your status online through the DPS portal.
Eligibility Requirements
You must meet all of the following to qualify for a Texas LTC:
- Age 21 or older (18+ for active-duty military)
- U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
- No felony convictions
- No Class A or B misdemeanor convictions in the past 5 years
- No pending criminal charges
- Not currently under a protective order
- No history of psychological diagnoses that would disqualify you under federal law
- No chemical dependency history in the past 5 years
Texas LTC Reciprocity
The Texas LTC is one of the most widely honored licenses in the country. As of 2026, it is recognized in approximately 40 states, including Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia, and most of the South and Midwest. Check the Texas DPS website for the current reciprocity list, as it updates periodically when states change their laws.
States that generally do NOT honor the Texas LTC include California, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Illinois, and Hawaii.
Renewal
A Texas LTC is valid for five years. Renewal costs the same as the original application and requires a shorter (online or in-person) proficiency review. Start the renewal process 6 months before expiration to avoid any lapse in coverage.
Ready to complete your Texas LTC training requirement? Find approved Texas handgun courses on TrainingOS and book with a certified instructor near you.
Related: State Guides
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