Texas Gun Laws

Texas is classed as a "shall Issue" state with the law regulating ownership of firearms to any person at least 18 years old. Texas gun laws do not regulate the possession of firearms so any person, no matter what age, can possess a firearm as long as they are not a felon. To purchase a handgun a person must be at least 21 years old if buying from a federally licensed dealer. Licences to carry are issued to both residents and non-residents with a 4-6 hour training course required. Open carry is legal provided the handgun is in a shoulder or belt holster.

Texas CCW Quick Facts

Carry In Vehicle SEE DETAILS

Must Notify Officer NO

Carry In State Parks Allowed YES

No Weapons Signs Enforced SEE DETAILS

Open Carry Permitted SEE DETAILS

Carry In Liquor Establishments YES

Constitutional Carry NO

LICENSE ISSUED TO

Residents
Non-Residents

STATE POLICY

Shall Issue

See Details

Texas Handgun License LTC

REQUIREMENTS

Is a legal resident of this state for the six-month period preceding the date of application under this subchapter or is otherwise eligible for a license under Section 411.173(a);
Is at least 21 years of age; or at least 18 if you are a member or veteran of the US Armed Forces, Reserves or National Guard or was discharged under honorable conditions.
Has not been convicted of a felony;
Is not charged with the commission of a Class A or Class B misdemeanor or equivalent offense, or of an offense under Section 42.01, Penal Code, or equivalent offense, or of a felony under an information or indictment;
Is not a fugitive from justice for a felony or a Class A or Class B misdemeanor or equivalent offense;
Is not a chemically dependent person;
Is not incapable of exercising sound judgment with respect to the proper use and storage of a handgun;
Has not, in the five years preceding the date of application, been convicted of a Class A or Class B misdemeanor or equivalent offense or of an offense under Section 42.01, Penal Code, or equivalent offense;
is fully qualified under applicable federal and state law to purchase a handgun;
Has not been finally determined to be delinquent in making a child support payment administered or collected by the attorney general;
Has not been finally determined to be delinquent in the payment of a tax or other money collected by the comptroller, the tax collector of a political subdivision of the state, or any agency or subdivision of the state;
Is not currently restricted under a court protective order or subject to a restraining order affecting the spousal relationship, other than a restraining order solely affecting property interests;
Has not, in the 10 years preceding the date of application, been adjudicated as having engaged in delinquent conduct violating a penal law of the grade of felony; and
Has not made any material misrepresentation, or failed to disclose any material fact, in an application submitted pursuant to Section 411.174.
Federal Law Requirements

texas LTC license to carry

APPLICATIONS

Follow these steps to obtain a permit

Download the application form or submit an online application.
Schedule an appointment for fingerprinting. All fingerprints must be submitted through L-1 Enrollment Services
Applicants must also complete 4 – 6 hours of classroom training and pass a written exam and then pass a proficiency demonstration (shooting).
The classroom training can be done online.
Once training is completed you must submit a Certificate of Training to the Dept. of Public Safety to complete the application.

If you are making the application by mail send your application to;
Texas Department of Public Safety
Concealed Handgun – MSC 0245
PO Box 4087
Austin, TX 78773-0001
Phone: (512) 424-7293

NON-RESIDENTS
Out of state residents must supply a color copy, front and back, of your state drivers license or ID card.
A proficiency certificate not greater than two years old from a course approved by the DPS.
Non-Residents can make applications online or via mail.

Application for a Handgun License

RENEWALS

Handgun license renewals can be submitted 6 months prior to the expiration date of the license.
Renewals can be made up to 12 months after the expiration date of license.
Renewal applications made after 12 months from the expiry date will be treated as a new application.
From the 1 September, 2013 renewal applicants no longer have to attend a training class.
Renewals can be made online
You will usually be notified about 6 months before your license expires to renew it.

HANDGUN LICENSE FEE’S

Application Conditions	Original	Renewal
Individual	$40	$40
Active Judicial or Probation Officer	$25	$25
Retired Judicial Officer	$25	$25
Active Military/Peace Officer/Correctional Officer/County Jailer	$0	$0
Retired Peace Officer/Federal Officer	$25	$25
Senior Citizen	$40	$35
Veteran (Honorably Discharged)	$25	$25

State Fee Schedule

Texas CCW Dashboard

Minimum

age required

Cost of

a ccw license

years license

is valid

year License

2000

data updated

Active CCW

licenses in texas

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a ccw license

states that honor

a texas license

state licenses

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State Rating

Good

Texas Reciprocity Map

TEXAS

texas CCW license recognition

Permit honored
Permit not honored

Residential permits only

Issuing state

Texas CCW Reciprocity

Texas State Reciprocity List

STATES

RESIDENT
Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

NON-RESIDENT
Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

states

Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, New York City, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wyoming

states

California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Washington.

Districts
Washington D.C.

STATES

states

How Reciprocity Works In Texas

All non-resident permits from states that Texas honors will be accepted in Texas as long as the holder of the permit is at least 21 years old.

Texas has signed reciprocity agreements with 31 other states which can be viewed at the Texas Department of Public Safety's website.

Texas state flag

411.173 - Non-resident license

(b) The governor shall negotiate an agreement with any other state that provides for the issuance of a license to carry a handgun under which a license issued by the other state is recognized in this state or shall issue a proclamation that a license issued by the other state is recognized in this state if the attorney general of the State of Texas determines that a background check of each applicant for a license issued by that state is initiated by state or local authorities or an agent of the state or local authorities before the license is issued. For purposes of this subsection, “background check” means a search of the National Crime Information Center database and the Interstate Identification Index maintained by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

(c) The attorney general of the State of Texas shall annually:

submit a report to the governor, lieutenant governor, and speaker of the house of representatives listing the states the attorney general has determined qualify for recognition under Subsection (b); and
review the statutes of states that the attorney general has determined do not qualify for recognition under Subsection (b) to determine the changes to their statutes that are necessary to qualify for recognition under that subsection.

(d) The attorney general of the State of Texas shall submit the report required by Subsection (c)(1) not later than January 1 of each calendar year.

Rhode Island - Only permits issued by the Rhode Island Attorney General will be honored by Texas
Ohio - Permits must have been issued or renewed after 3/23/15 to be honored in Texas.

Texas Concealed Handgun Forms

Download Your Forms

Days to process

New permit

Pointers: Texas Handgun Laws

Texas: Places Off-Limits for CCW

Places Off Limits in Texas

On the premises of a business that derives 51% or more of its income from the sale or service of alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption
On the premises where a high school, collegiate, or professional sporting or interscholastic event is taking place
On the premises of a correctional facility
On the premises of a hospital or nursing home
In a permanent amusement park
On the premises of a church, synagogue, or other place of worship
At any meeting of a governmental entity
It is an offense to carry a handgun if the person is intoxicated
It is an offense to carry a handgun un-holstered and in plain view
Members of criminal street gangs are prohibited from carrying a concealed handgun
It is an offense to carry a concealed handgun if a person is involved in criminal activity
Polling places on day of election
Premises of a Racetrack
Secured area of airport
Any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by Federal Law.

Places Allowed in Texas

State parks
State and national forests
Road side rest areas
Vehicle
All areas of the state not listed as Off-Limits

Texas Handgun Laws To Know

YES - Without a permit

Any person who can legally possess a handgun can carry it within a vehicle. However, if you do not have a LTC license then the firearm must be concealed in the glove box, console or other area but not on your person. If you do have a LTC license then you can open carry if the firearm is in a shoulder or belt holster. And you can conceal carry in any mode you desire. The Law 46.02

NO - Must Inform Officer

There seems to be a bit of confusion here with some websites claiming you need to inform a law enforcement officer you have a weapon. The fact is the law does not mention this and you are not legally required to inform law enforcement you have a weapon. However, the law does require you to hand over your firearm licence and ID if requested to do so by law enforcement. Please watch the video on traffic stops for more clarification.

The Law
Sec. 411.205 Requirement to Display License

YES/NO

Texas gun laws give "No Weapons" signs the force of law if they meet certain criteria. There are currently three signs that are legally enforced in Texas to prohibit carrying of weapons, an image of each of the signs is displayed below. Note that any other no weapons signs such as the traditional circle with a line through it are not enforceable or legally binding, the sign must be exactly as those pictured below to be legally enforceable.

Any establishment that derives more than 50% of their income from alcoholic beverages is required to post the 51% sign. Even with a CCW license you are not permitted to carry in these establishments.

Sign 30.06 bans concealed carry

Sign 30.07 bans the open carry of handguns

51% Sign bans carry in liquor establishments

YES/NO - with or Without a permit

Open is permitted if you have a license to carry. The firearm must also be in a shoulder holster or a belt holster. These are the only ways Texas law allows open carry. The police also have authority to ask for your license to carry when you open carry.

The Law
46.035

YES

In Restaurants That Serve Alcohol

"Yes" or "No" states if you can carry in a restaurant that serves alcohol. Some restaurants may be posted with "NO GUN" signs. Check with the staff if this means just the bar area. If we have indicated a "Yes" then it should be legal to have a meal without drinking alcohol.

The Law
46.03

YES

It is legal to carry in the following areas;

State Parks: YES
State/National Forests: YES
State Game Management Units: YES
Road Side Rest Areas: YES

YES - Without a permit

NO - Must Inform Officer

The Law
Sec. 411.205 Requirement to Display License

YES/NO

Any establishment that derives more than 50% of their income from alcoholic beverages is required to post the 51% sign. Even with a CCW license you are not permitted to carry in these establishments.

Sign 30.06 bans concealed carry

Sign 30.07 bans the open carry of handguns

51% Sign bans carry in liquor establishments

History Of Texas Gun Laws

Antique handgun

Learn The Gun History of Texas

Up until 1995 Texas was a "No Issue" state and then in that same year, 1995, the laws were changed to "Shall Issue". There has been a push towards Constitutional carry recently but nothing has been signed into law yet. Texas is following the national trend and gradually bringing in more liberal gun laws.

The current license to carry was previously called a CHL or concealed handgun license. The name was changed on Jan 1, 2016 to LTC when new laws were enacted that legalized open carry in Texas provided the handgun was in a shoulder or belt holster.

Texas Gun Sales & Preemption

Private Gun Sales

There are no background checks required if a firearm is sold privately or gifted to someone. The purchaser must be 18 or older and have no felony convictions. If you where to purchase from a federally licensed dealer then a background check would be required and the purchaser would need to be at least 21 years old.

Preemption

There is full preemption in Texas with the state controlling all firearms laws regarding gun ownership, licensing, storage, ammunition and accessories. Local authorities are allowed to make ordinances regarding the discharge of firearms only.

Texas Gun Statutes

"Every citizen shall have the right to keep and bear arms in the lawful defense of himself or the State; but the legislature shall have power, by law, to regulate the wearing of arms, with a view to prevent crime".
(art. I § 23)

Texas State Capitol Building

Gun Laws Relating To Concealed Carry

Off-Limits Statutes

46.035 - Unlawful carrying of handgun

(a) A license holder commits an offense if the license holder carries a handgun on or about the license holder’s person under the authority of Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code, and intentionally displays the handgun in plain view of another person in a public place. It is an exception to the application of this subsection that the handgun was partially or wholly visible but was carried in a shoulder or belt holster by the license holder.

(a-1) Notwithstanding Subsection (a), a license holder commits an offense if the license holder carries a partially or wholly visible handgun, regardless of whether the handgun is holstered, on or about the license holder’s person under the authority of Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code, and intentionally displays the handgun in plain view of another person:

on the premises of an institution of higher education or private or independent institution of higher education; or
on any public or private driveway, street, sidewalk or walkway, parking lot, parking garage, or other parking area of an institution of higher education or private or independent institution of higher education.

(b) A license holder commits an offense if the license holder intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly carries a handgun regardless of whether the handgun is concealed or carried in a shoulder or belt holster, on or about the license holder ’s person:

on the premises of a business that has a permit or license issued under Chapter 25, 28, 32, 69, or 74, Alcoholic Beverage Code, if the business derives 51 percent or more of its income from the sale or service of alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption, as determined by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission under Section 104.06, Alcoholic Beverage Code;
on the premises where a high school, collegiate, or professional sporting event or interscholastic event is taking place, unless the license holder is a participant in the event and a handgun is used in the event;
on the premises of a correctional facility;

*Subsections (b)(4), (b)(5), (b)(6), and (c) do not apply if the actor was not given effective notice under Section 30.06 or 30.07.

(d) A license holder commits an offense if, while intoxicated, the license holder carries a handgun under the authority of Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code, regardless of whether the handgun is concealed or carried in a shoulder or belt holster.

(e) A license holder who is licensed as a security officer under Chapter 1702, Occupations Code, and employed as a security officer commits an offense if, while in the course and scope of the security officer’s employment, the security officer violates a provision of Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code.

(f) In this section:

“Amusement park” means a permanent indoor or outdoor facility or park where amusement rides are available for use by the public that is located in a county with a population of more than one million, encompasses at least 75 acres in surface area, is enclosed with access only through controlled entries, is open for operation more than 120 days in each calendar year, and has security guards on the premises at all times. The term does not include any public or private driveway, street, sidewalk or walkway, parking lot, parking garage, or other parking area.
“License holder” means a person licensed to carry a handgun under Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code.
“Premises” means a building or a portion of a building. The term does not include any public or private driveway, street, sidewalk or walkway, parking lot, parking garage, or other parking area.

(1-a) “Institution of higher education” and “private or independent institution of higher education” have the meanings assigned by Section 61.003, Education Code.

(g) An offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor, unless the offense is committed under Subsection (b)(1) or (b)(3), in which event the offense is a felony of the third degree.

(h) It is a defense to prosecution under Subsection (a) or (a-1) that the actor, at the time of the commission of the offense, displayed the handgun under circumstances in which the actor would have been justified in the use of force or deadly force under Chapter 9.

(i) Subsections (b)(4), (b)(5), (b)(6), and (c) do not apply if the actor was not given effective notice under Section 30.06 or 30.07.

(j) Subsections (a), (a-1), and (b)(1) do not apply to a historical reenactment performed in compliance with the rules of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission.

Other CCW Statutes

46.03(a)(5) - Defense at screening area

(e-1) It is a defense to prosecution under Subsection (a)(5) that the actor:

possessed, at the screening checkpoint for the secured area, a concealed handgun that the actor was licensed to carry under Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code; and
exited the screening checkpoint for the secured area immediately upon completion of the required Screening processes and notification that the actor possessed the handgun.

(e-2) A peace officer investigating conduct that may constitute an offense under Subsection (a)(5) and that consists only of an actor’s possession of a handgun that the actor is licensed to carry under Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code, may not arrest the actor for the offense unless:

the officer advises the actor of the defense available under Subsection (e-1) and gives the actor an opportunity to exit the screening checkpoint for the secured area; and
the actor does not immediately exit the checkpoint upon completion of the required screening processes.

30.06(e) - No gun signs

It is an exception to the application of this section that the property on which the license holder carries a concealed handgun is owned or leased by a governmental entity and is not a premises or other place on which the license holder is prohibited from carrying the handgun under Section 46.03 or 46.035. In order to provide notice that entry on property by a license holder with a handgun is forbidden,

30.06(c)(3)(A) - No gun signs, trespass

(a) A license holder commits an offense if the license holder:

carries a concealed handgun under the authority of Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code, on property of another without effective consent; and
received notice that entry on the property by a license holder with a concealed handgun was forbidden.
“Written communication” means:

(A) a card or other document on which is written language identical to the following: “Pursuant to Section 30.06, Penal Code (trespass by license holder with a concealed handgun), a person licensed under Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code handgun licensing law), may not enter this property with a concealed handgun”; or
(B) a sign posted on the property that:
- (i) includes the language described by Paragraph (A) in both English and Spanish;
- (ii) appears in contrasting colors with block letters at least one inch in height; and
- (iii) is displayed in a conspicuous manner clearly visible to the public.

30.07 - No gun signs, open carry

(a) A license holder commits an offense if the license holder:

openly carries a handgun under the authority of Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code, on property of another without effective consent; and
received notice that entry on the property by a license holder openly carrying a handgun was forbidden.

(b) For purposes of this section, a person receives notice if the owner of the property or someone with apparent authority to act for the owner provides notice to the person by oral or written communication.

(c) In this section:

“Entry” has the meaning assigned by Section 30.05(b).
“License holder” has the meaning assigned by Section 46.035(f).
“Written communication” means:

(A) a card or other document on which is written language identical to the following: “Pursuant to Section 30.07, Penal Code (trespass by license holder with an openly carried handgun), a person licensed under Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code (handgun licensing law), may not enter this property with a handgun that is carried openly”; or

(B) a sign posted on the property that:

(i) includes the language described by Paragraph (A) in both English and Spanish;
(ii) appears in contrasting colors with block letters at least one inch in height; and
(iii) is displayed in a conspicuous manner clearly visible to the public at each entrance to the property.

(d) An offense under this section is a Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed $200, except that the offense is a Class A misdemeanor if it is shown on the trial of the offense that, after entering the property, the license holder was personally given the notice by oral communication described by Subsection (b) and subsequently failed to depart.

(e) It is an exception to the application of this section that the property on which the license holder openly carries the handgun is owned or leased by a governmental entity and is not a premises or other place on which the license holder is prohibited from carrying the handgun under Section 46.03 or 46.035.

(f) It is not a defense to prosecution under this section that the handgun was carried in a shoulder or belt holster.

Gov. code 411.209 - No gun signs, wrongful exclusion

(a) Except as provided by Subsection (i), a state agency or a political subdivision of the state may not provide notice by a communication described by Section 30.06, Penal Code, or by any sign expressly referring to that law or to a license to carry a handgun, that a license holder carrying a handgun under the authority of this subchapter is prohibited from entering or remaining on a premises or other place owned or leased by the governmental entity unless license holders are prohibited from carrying a handgun on the premises or other place by Section 46.03 or 46.035, Penal Code.

(b) A state agency or a political subdivision of the state that violates Subsection (a) is liable for a civil penalty of:

not less than $1,000 and not more than $1,500 for the first violation; and
not less than $10,000 and not more than $10,500 for the second or a subsequent violation.

(c) Each day of a continuing violation of Subsection (a) constitutes a separate violation.

(d) A resident of this state or a person licensed to carry a handgun under this subchapter may file a complaint with the attorney general that a state agency or political subdivision is in violation of Subsection (a) if the resident or person provides the agency or subdivision a written notice that describes the violation and specific location of the sign found to be in violation and the agency or subdivision does not cure the violation before the end of the third business day after the date of receiving the written notice. (See complete statute. Edited for space Considerations.)

Gov. code 411.205 - Required to show license

46.02 - Vehicle carry

(a) A person commits an offense if the person [he] intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly carries on or about his or her person a handgun, illegal knife, or club if the person is not:

on the person’s own premises or premises under the person’s control; or
inside of or directly en route to a motor vehicle or watercraft that is owned by the person or under the person’s control.

(a-1) A person commits an offense if the person intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly carries on or about his or her person a handgun in a motor vehicle or watercraft that is owned by the person or under the person’s control at any time in which:

the handgun is in plain view, unless the person is licensed to carry a handgun under Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code, and the handgun is carried in a shoulder or belt holster; or
the person is:

(A) engaged in criminal activity, other than a Class C misdemeanor that is a violation of a law or ordinance regulating traffic or boating;
(B) prohibited by law from possessing a firearm; or
(C) a member of a criminal street gang, as defined by Section 71.01.

46.035 - Open carry

(a-1) Notwithstanding Subsection (a), a license holder commits an offense if the license holder carries a partially or wholly visible handgun, regardless of whether the handgun is holstered, on or about the license holder ’s person under the authority of Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code, and intentionally displays the handgun in plain view of another person:

on the premises of an institution of higher education or private or independent institution of higher education; or
on any public or private driveway, street, sidewalk or walkway, parking lot, parking garage, or other parking area of an institution of higher education or private or independent institution of higher education.

Local Gov. code 229.001 - State preemption

(a) Notwithstanding any other law, including Section 43.002 of this code and Chapter 251, Agriculture Code, a municipality may not adopt regulations relating to:

the transfer, private ownership, keeping, transportation, licensing, or registration of firearms, air guns, knives, ammunition, or firearm or air gun supplies; or
the discharge of a firearm or air gun at a sport shooting range.

(b) Subsection (a) does not affect the authority a municipality has under another law to:

require residents or public employees to be armed for personal or national defense, law enforcement, or another lawful purpose;
regulate the discharge of firearms or air guns within the limits of the municipality, other than at a sport shooting range;
regulate the use of property, the location of a business, or uses at a business under the municipality’s fire code, zoning ordinance, or land-use regulations as long as the code, ordinance, or regulations are not used to circumvent the intent of Subsection (a) or Subdivision (5) of this subsection;
regulate the use of firearms, [or] air guns, or knives in the case of an insurrection, riot, or natural disaster if the municipality finds the regulations necessary to protect public health and safety;
regulate the storage or transportation of explosives to protect public health and safety, except that 25 pounds or less of black powder for each private residence and 50 pounds or less of black powder for each retail dealer are not subject to regulation;
regulate the carrying of a firearm or air gun by a person other than a person licensed to carry a handgun under Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code, at a:

(A) public park;
(B) public meeting of a municipality, county, or other governmental body;
(C) political rally, parade, or official political meeting; or
(D) nonfirearms-related school, college, or professional athletic event;

7. regulate the hours of operation of a sport shooting range, except that the hours of operation may not be more limited than the least limited hours of operation of any other business in the municipality other than a business permitted or licensed to sell or serve alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption; or

8. regulate the carrying of an air gun by a minor on:

(A) public property; or
(B) private property without consent of the property owner.

(c) The exception provided by Subsection (b)(6) does not apply if the firearm or air gun is in or is carried to or from an area designated for use in a lawful hunting, fishing, or other sporting event and the firearm or air gun is of the type commonly used in the activity.

(d) The exception provided by Subsection (b)(4) does not authorize the seizure or confiscation of any firearm, air gun, knife, or ammunition from an individual who is lawfully carrying or possessing the firearm, air gun, knife, or ammunition.

(e) In this section:

(1) “Air gun” means any gun that discharges a pellet, BB, or paintball by means of compressed air, gas propellant, or a spring.
(2) “Knife” has the meaning assigned by Section 46.01, Penal Code.
(3) “Sport shooting range” has the meaning assigned by Section 250.001.

(f) The attorney general may bring an action in the name of the state to obtain a temporary or permanent injunction against a municipality adopting a regulation in violation of this section.

gov. code 433.0045 - State emergency powers

(a) A directive issued under this chapter may not authorize the seizure or confiscation of any firearm or ammunition from an individual who is lawfully carrying or possessing the firearm or ammunition.

(b) A peace officer who is acting in the lawful execution of the officer’s official duties during a state of emergency may disarm an individual if the officer reasonably believes it is immediately necessary for the protection of the officer or another individual.

(c) The peace officer shall return a firearm and any ammunition to an individual disarmed under Subsection

(d) before ceasing to detain the individual unless the officer:

arrests the individual for engaging in criminal activity; or
seizes the firearm as evidence in a criminal investigation.

Texas CCW FAQ's

Who issues a Texas concealed weapons permit?

What is the processing time?

Can I do the training online?

Will I need my own gun for training?

When can I start carrying my gun?

What are the requirements for open carry?

Can I carry in a public park?

Can I carry more than one handgun?

How do I change the address on my license?

Do I need to be a resident of Texas to get a LTC?

My LTC was lost, how do I get a new one?

Can I get a LTC if I have a DUI conviction?

For information on other states handgun laws please go back to the state laws page and select the state you are interested in.

Texas CCW Contact

Texas Department of Public Safety

Hours

Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm

Saturday Closed

Sunday Closed

Contact

Address 5805 North Lamar Blvd.

CityAustin, TX 78752-4431

Phone (512) 424-7293

Updates & Data Sources

DATE	DETAILS
7/19/18	West Virginia page updated
7/1/18	Updated Kentucky page added holster guide
4/19/18	Updated Wisconsin page
3/25/18	Updated Federal background checks to latest figures
2/23/18	Updated DC page
2/11/18	Updated Missouri page
1/26/18	Updated Nevada page and federal statistics
1/19/18	Updated Tennessee page
1/14/18	Update Washington, Colorado pages
1/7/18	Updated South Carolina, DC pages
1/1/18	Updated New York page
12/28/17	Updated Arizona pge
12/25/17	Updated Utah page to mobile friendly design, will roll out to other pages over next few months.
12/9/17	Updated Texas page
12/6/17	Updated California and Hawaii page, Hawaii page only partially completed.
12/1/17	Ohio page finished
11/24/17	Updated Washington DC to Shall Issue
11/8/17	Update Illinois page
11/1/17	Updated Florida and Alabama pages
10/12/17	Updated Ohio page, added new sections to statistics page
10/5/17	Added video section to Florida page
10/3/17	Updated Nevada page
10/2/17	Updated Georgia page
9/30/17	Updated Texas page
9/30/17	Entered new figures for latest 2017 NICS checks on Statistics page
9/29/17	Updated Pennsylvania page
9/26/17	Updated Florida page, added new links, forms and sections
7/22/17	updated permit numbers to latest figures
6/29/17	Updated permit numbers to 14,917,279
6/17/17	updated interface, added new travel info and other sections.
7/28/18	Updated Mississippi page

Important

The information contained on this page is not legal advice but is merely a starting point for your own research. It is up to you to decide what the best course of action is for your circumstances. We are not lawyers, if you'd like individualized legal advice, we'd be happy to refer you to some law practices with known firearm specializations. It is crucial that you understand the law before you carry a firearm. Also, remember that just because a statute may clearly say one thing or another, that doesn't mean all members of law enforcement know it. That also goes for lawyers and even judges too.

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Gary

I have recently moved from Arizona to Texas where I am now a resident and have a Texas Drivers License. As a resident, can I still legally carry with my Arizona Carry License?

Jeff

I am confused by the response in the open carry box above. Specifically, the general statement that the police have the authority under any circumstance to ask for your chl/ltc . It was my understanding for the Attorney General that the mere fact of carrying openly was not cause enough to stop a person to inspect their license. I may be missing it in the full text of 46.035. If that was allowed it would permit harassment of holders by the police.

Patrick

What are the laws regarding carrying a concealed handgun into a convenience store that does NOT generate 51% of income from alcohol sales, like a gas station? At many of these stores, I see signs that say something about the “unlawful carrying of a handgun” not being allowed, but they are not the usual 30.06 or 30.07 signs that I know are clear bans of any guns on the premises. Do those signs on convenience store windows and doors simply mean that if you are not legally allowed to carry a concealed handgun in Texas that you cannot walk in… Read more »

The 51% sign applies to establishment such as restaurants that serve alcohol. A store would require 30.06/30.07 signage. 30.06/30.07 alerts persons if or how they are allowed to carry on the property.

Jose Musquez

I understand that the law in Texas about carrying in church has changed but i have not been able to confirm can anybody help Thank

Juan Mangas Mochas

This is a tricky question partner. Places of worship are the only entity exempt from posting the 30.06/30.07 signs. They are only required to inform you that they prohibit carry. The reason for the exemption was to save these entities from having to post the big, ugly signs at every door.

Anon

Is it possible to get someone else’s gun license revoked because you know they are mentally & emotionally unstable when they are emotionally? I love with this person and I don’t think it’s safe for them to own a gun is there anyway I can change that?

jnathanmick

Is Illionis Concealed carry legal in virginia?

RICHARD J BOSCHSUERO

Is it’s legal for me too carry my rifle into places that have 3006 3007 laws

The top of this page says signs are not enforced. The detail section at the bottom says yes, they are enforced. If it is the official 30.06 (concealed) or 30.07 (open), it does carry the force of law. If it is a gunbuster (circle with a line through it) or any other unofficial sign it does not carry the weight of law. Can we get this updated? I would recommend the top say Yes/No (see detail) and provide the detail at the bottom. Thanks!

Author

Wayne

Thanks for that info Patrick. We have updated that section, there are actually 3 signs.

Joe

I have a ccp and am going to Colorado on vacation
Can I carry my pistol with my texas ccp

Robert-Henry

I have a question that seems to have no answer. Pre 1898. Not considered firearms by the federal or state view. Would this require someone to have a license to carry a 1873 colt peacemaker (cap and ball variety)? Meets all criteria for consideration of not a firearm, pre 1898, black powder only, and percussion. I know this question may lead to all types of divergence from the stated question, and personally I don’t look forward to the quarreling, I’m just trying to get a straight forward answer with supporting legal documentation. I have already submitted a request for the… Read more »

Really dude

Texas has the sorriest reasons to not let a person get a gun permit.and it has nothing to do with guns just about collecting money.I don’t see how any one thinks this is right and constitutional and legal.

XTexasJoryX

Carrying in a non-state hospital, church, and amusement park IS permitted if they are not posted with the 30.06 or 30.07 signs.

Rob

I’m confused, above under the heading “Places Off Limits in Texas,” the website states “It is an offense to carry a concealed handgun in plain view.” I find the terms “concealed” and “in plain view” mutually exclusive. Under what circumstances could a handgun be concealed and in plain view? What am I missing here?

Totally agree, has been modified, thanks for letting us know.

Josh

Is my FLORIDA LICENSE GOOD TO STILL CARRY MY HANDGUN IN TEXAS OR DO I NEED TO GET THE TEXAS ONE !?

sam

Conceal carry in Teaxas requries a LTC?

John Doe

If you are asking then you most likely can’t read and shouldn’t own a gun

Aaron Davis

John, just because someone is ignorant of the current law doesn’t mean they shouldn’t own a gun. Everyone should own a gun for the simple reason of self defense barring mental illness or other disqualifying reason presented by the state.

Sam, yes you have to have an LTC to conceal carryon open carry on your person outside of your vehicle or your personal property.

John doe is the smartest man on the planet don’t ya see!?that’s why he answers like that.lol

Anthony

john you are the reason why ppl carry gun

Rbuglio

Your taking up valuable oxygen John Doe and your a pussy for joy using your real name. If your gonna sling crap at people you should use your gun in yourself. Ugh one in every crowd folks

Someone scrolled past every important section of information and went straight to the comments

Glen Kenney

Maine and Vermont are “permitless carry” states, but I see that they are listed as not honoring the Texas CCL. Does that mean that I would not be allowed to carry my pistol in Maine or Vermont, even though they have “permitless carry”.

Glen

That’s a dumb question, since you can read and click on those States with your mouse button you clearly don’t need to own a gun

Karen Langdell

I am from Vermont. The only laws are you cannot be a felon and if you encounter law enforcement, you need to notify. Also, unload for travel in a vehicle if you have rifles. Open carry is ok for anyone! Hope it helps.

Mike

To carry concealed in my vehicle, do I have to have a Texas License to Carry or is my Louisiana license good?

Your LA license is fine.

Alisha ainsworth

I have a alabama permit to carry my pistol. We are coming to visit my family that lives in texas very soon will the state of texas allow me to carry my pistol on my side in the holster without getting into trouble. Please let me know as soon as possible because i dont want to break any laws.

veteran

Yes, look above and the State of Texas does honor the State of Alabama so you are good.

anthony

Yes you can carry it

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