Introduction to Texas' Concealed Carry Laws
Understanding concealed carry laws Texas can open doors for responsible firearm owners who want to exercise their rights while staying on the right side of the law. With recent legislative changes—such as permitless carry for individuals at least 21 years old—Texans and out-of-state visitors have multiple ways to lawfully carry a handgun in the Lone Star State.
From the Castle Doctrine to CCW requirements by state, this guide breaks down everything you need to know, including details about licensing, concealed carry training, and essential off-limits locations.
Table of Contents
A Snapshot of Concealed Carry Laws Texas
Texas is a shall-issue state where the Department of Public Safety issues a License to Carry (LTC) to anyone who meets the statutory requirements. As of September 1, 2021, the state also allows permitless carry for those who meet age and legal possession criteria. Under these rules, open carry is allowed in a holster, and concealed carry means no part of the handgun is visible.
Key Points to Remember:
- Minimum Age: Generally, 21 for permitless carry; 18 for LTC if you’re military or meet specific conditions (such as a court order related to family violence).
- No Registration: Texas does not require handgun registration.
- Private Sales: No permit or background check required, but federal and state prohibitions still apply.
- Shall-Issue LTC: If you choose to pursue a license, the state must grant it if you meet the criteria.
Permitless Carry & Age Requirements
Permitless Carry Basics
Concealed carry laws Texas changed significantly on September 1, 2021. Now, any law-abiding individual 21 years or older can carry a holstered handgun openly or carry it concealed without a permit. You must be able to legally possess a firearm under both federal and Texas state law. That means you cannot be a felon or have certain misdemeanor convictions (e.g., multiple DUIs in the last five years or family violence convictions) that prohibit you from owning a firearm.
Younger Carriers (18 to 20)
Due to a federal court ruling in 2023, 18- to 20-year-olds can now obtain an LTC, letting them carry outside the home. The Department of Public Safety (DPS) no longer enforces the previous age restriction, provided you meet licensing standards and complete concealed carry training.
Getting a Texas LTC: Why It Still Matters
While permitless carry is helpful, obtaining a License to Carry offers distinct advantages:
- Reciprocity: Having a Texas LTC makes traveling easier, as many states honor Texas permits under CCW requirements by state reciprocity agreements.
- Federal Checks: LTC holders get an expedited firearms purchase process, exempting them from additional background checks at the time of purchase.
- Potential Legal Protections: LTC holders can enter some posted locations with more clarity and potential legal defenses if improperly noticed.
LTC Requirements at a Glance
- Legal residency in Texas (for at least six months) or intent to establish residency.
- Completion of a 4–6-hour concealed carry training course, including a written test and shooting proficiency test.
- Meeting all eligibility criteria—no felonies, pending charges for certain crimes, or domestic violence convictions.
- Honorable discharge from the military if under 21.
- Payment of the applicable fee ($40 standard, $25 for honorably discharged veterans).
Concealed Carry Training & Licensing Process
Concealed carry laws Texas outline specific guidelines for LTC applicants:
- Submit an Online Application: Provide your driver’s license or ID, full address history, and criminal/psychiatric background info.
- Get Fingerprinted: DPS uses L-1 Enrollment Services for electronic fingerprinting.
- Complete Classroom or Online Instruction: Must include 4–6 hours of instruction covering relevant Texas firearms law, non-violent dispute resolution, gun safety, and safe storage.
- Pass a Shooting Proficiency: Fire 50 rounds at distances of 3, 7, and 15 yards. Active or honorably discharged military members may not need the full range portion.
- Submit Paperwork: Turn in your certificate of training to DPS.
- Receive Your License: Processing time is typically 60 days. Renewals occur every five years.
Self-Defense & Deadly Force Under Texas Law
Texas is a Castle Doctrine and Stand Your Ground state. You have no legal duty to retreat if you’re in a place where you lawfully have the right to be. Below is a quick overview:
- Defense of Person: Deadly force is justified if you reasonably believe you face imminent danger of serious bodily injury, death, or specific serious felonies (e.g., robbery, kidnapping).
- Defense of Property: You can use force—and in certain situations deadly force—to protect land or tangible property from imminent criminal interference, like burglary or arson.
- Defense of Third Person: Deadly force can also be used to protect a third party if you reasonably believe they’re under unlawful attack or faced with serious threats.
For more educational resources on self-defense laws and firearms law, check out our online resources page for more information.
Off-Limits Locations
Even with concealed carry laws Texas allowing extensive freedom, some places remain off-limits:
- School Buildings & School-Sponsored Events: Strictly prohibited without special authorization.
- Secured Airport Areas: Restricted behind security checkpoints.
- Court Premises: Typically off-limits unless the court specifically authorizes it.
- 51% Establishments: Bars or similar businesses that make over half their income from on-site alcohol sales.
- Hospitals & Nursing Homes: Firearms are often banned unless posted otherwise.
- Amusement Parks: Usually off-limits.
- Government-Posted Locations: Various public entities may post signage as authorized by Texas Penal Code.
Remember: “Premises” means the building or part of a building, not driveways, sidewalks, or parking areas.
Common Questions on Concealed Carry Laws Texas
Carry in Vehicles
Permitless carry is allowed in your vehicle if you’re at least 21 and legally able to possess a handgun. Just ensure it’s concealed or in a holster if visible.
Employer Parking Lots
State law prevents most employers from banning employees from storing lawfully owned firearms in locked, privately owned vehicles—so long as the weapon is out of plain view.
Signs & Postings
Texas uses multiple laws for “no guns allowed” signs:
- 30.05: Allows forbidding permitless carry.
- 30.06: Allows forbidding licensed concealed carry.
- 30.07: Allows forbidding licensed open carry.
- 51%: Alcohol-related sign indicating the establishment earns most revenue from on-site alcohol sales.
Once you’ve been verbally warned or see a legally correct sign, you must leave or risk criminal trespass charges.
Essentially all of this boils down to “no guns allowed” signs having the force of law, with violations being a misdemeanor.
Reciprocity & CCW Requirements by State
Since Texas allows permitless carry, travelers 21+ who can legally own a firearm may carry concealed in Texas without a license. However, if you’re leaving Texas, each state’s CCW requirements by state can differ. For maximum convenience across state lines, having a Texas LTC remains valuable. Many states honor or partially honor Texas-issued licenses, but restrictions can apply.
Hunters & Special Considerations
- Bow Hunting: You can carry a handgun for personal protection if you have a Texas LTC or a recognized permit.
- Gun Hunting: Similarly, LTC holders can carry a concealed sidearm while hunting with a rifle or shotgun.
Hunter Harassment
Texas also has a hunter harassment law making it illegal to interfere intentionally with lawful hunting or fishing activities.
Policing the Brass - Conclusion
From the new permitless option to the more traditional LTC framework, concealed carry laws Texas accommodate law-abiding citizens seeking self-defense, property protection, or a safe traveling companion. For a downloadable guide that you can bring with you if traveling to Texas, visit HandgunLaws.us for their free PDF guide.
Whether you’re an 18-year-old servicemember seeking your LTC or a seasoned gun owner looking to refine your concealed carry training, staying informed is key to carrying responsibly. Understanding your rights—and the places where carry is off-limits—can help you enjoy your freedoms safely and confidently in the Lone Star State.
Concealed Carry Laws Texas: Q&A Section
Carry Basics Questions
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? | Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of small chemical dispensers of pepper spray in Texas for personal protection. [Tex. Pen. Code § 46.05(a)(3)] |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? | Texas is a shall-issue state. Licenses to carry a concealed firearm are issued by the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to qualified applicants. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? | Yes. As of September 1, 2021, anyone at least 21 years old who may lawfully possess a handgun can carry openly in a holster without a permit. [Texas Penal Code § 46.02(a-5)] |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? | Yes. It is legal to own and possess a taser or stun gun in Texas without a permit. |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? | No. A Texas LTC applies only to handguns and does not cover other weapons under permitless carry. |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? | Yes. Armor-piercing ammunition is prohibited in Texas. [Tex. Penal Code § 46.05(a)(2)] |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? | No. There are no magazine capacity restrictions for handguns in Texas. |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? | The minimum age is 18 years old. On Jan. 10, 2023, DPS was directed to no longer enforce the state law barring adults under 21 from carrying handguns in public. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? | Yes. Texas allows permitless (constitutional) carry for individuals at least 21 years old who are not otherwise prohibited from possessing a handgun under federal or state law. |
Carry Location Questions
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? | Carrying is banned in businesses earning more than 51% of their revenue from on-premises alcohol sales (marked by a “51%” sign). However, in restaurants that serve alcohol but derive less than 51% of profits from it, concealed carry is allowed without a license unless the restaurant provides effective notice it is prohibited. [Texas Penal Code § 46.03(p)] |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? | Yes, for anyone at least 21 years old who can lawfully possess a handgun. Certain areas, such as land overseen by the Lower Colorado River Authority, are exceptions. [Tex. Parks & Wild. Code § 62.081] |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? | Yes. As of Sept. 1, 2021, permitless carry is allowed in a vehicle if you are at least 21 and lawfully able to own a handgun. If the handgun is visible, it must be in a holster, and you cannot be engaging in criminal activity (other than a traffic violation). [Tex. Penal Code §§ 46.02(a-1), 46.15] |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? | A hotel generally cannot prohibit a guest from carrying or storing a firearm in their room or vehicle. However, the hotel may require a guest to carry in a concealed manner or in a case/bag when in common areas. [Tex. Pen. Code §§ 30.05, 30.06, 30.07] |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? | Yes, anyone at least 21 years old who may lawfully possess a handgun can carry at roadside rest areas without a license. |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? | Public or private employers cannot prohibit employees with a valid concealed carry license from storing a firearm or ammunition in a locked, privately owned vehicle on company property, except where prohibited by law (e.g., certain refineries, school districts, higher ed). [Tex. Labor Code § 52.061] |
Key State Laws
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? | No. The Texas concealed carry registry is not publicly accessible, but it is available to criminal justice agencies. |
| DUTY TO INFORM OFFICER YOU’RE CARRYING? | Yes, if an officer demands identification, you must present both your driver’s license/ID and your LTC. [Tex. Gov’t Code § 411.205] |
| RED FLAG LAW? | No. Texas does not have a red flag law. |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? | Yes. Texas uses multiple sign types (30.05, 30.06, 30.07, 51%, etc.). Violating a properly posted sign can be a crime. Under the 2021 Firearm Carry Act, these signs differentiate between banning permitless carry or banning permitted concealed/open carry. [Texas Penal Code § 30.05] |
| TRIBAL LAND | Regulations vary. Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas bans firearms within 50 feet of buildings. Kickapoo Traditional Tribe prohibits carry. Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo requires a written permit. It’s best to contact each tribe before carrying on tribal lands. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? | If you are intoxicated, you may not carry a firearm outside your property or property under your control unless you have explicit permission from the vehicle or watercraft owner. “Intoxicated” means having a blood alcohol level of 0.08 or more, or lacking normal use of mental or physical faculties due to any substance. [Texas Penal Code § 46.02(a-6)] |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? | Yes. Non-residents can apply for a Texas LTC through the same process as residents. |
| BRANDISHING? | No specific definition in Texas law, but displaying a firearm “in a manner calculated to alarm” can be disorderly conduct. [Tex. Pen. Code § 42.01] |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? | Yes. When law enforcement runs your license plate or driver’s license, it will show if you have a Texas License to Carry (LTC). |
| PREEMPTION? | Yes. State law largely supersedes local regulations about handgun possession. Municipalities may regulate firearm discharge, certain public events, and a few other areas. [Tex. Local Gov’t Code § 229.001] |
Handgun Purchase & Possession Questions
| WAITING PERIOD? | No. There is no mandatory waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Texas. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? | Yes. A current Texas LTC serves as an alternative to background checks for up to 5 years from issuance. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? | No. You do not need a permit to buy a handgun in Texas. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? | No. Private sales do not require checks, though state and federal prohibitions still apply. Retaining a bill of sale is recommended. |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? | 18. You must be at least 18 years old to legally possess and transport a handgun in Texas. [Tex. Pen. Code § 46.06] |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? | Yes. You do not need a license on premises you own or control, including your home or RV used as living quarters. [Tex. Pen. Code § 46.02(a)] |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? | No. Texas does not require registration of handguns. |
Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES THE STATE OF TEXAS HONOR? | Texas honors permits from any state that offers carry licenses to individuals at least 21 years old and legally able to possess a firearm, including states with permitless carry. As of now, that includes:
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| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF TEXAS? | The following states honor permits from Texas:
Carry must comply with the destination state’s laws. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF TEXAS? | These states either have age requirements of 21+ or only honor resident licenses:
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| WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES? | States allowing permitless (constitutional) carry, with respective minimum ages:
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Concealed Carry License Information Questions
| WHAT DO YOU DO IF A PERMIT IS LOST OR STOLEN? | You can request a new license online. A new license number will be issued for security reasons. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | Texas LTCs are valid for 5 years. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | There is an interactive online application available via the Texas Department of Public Safety website, as well as a link for replacement licenses. |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Yes, non-residents can apply for a Texas LTC by providing a state ID and proficiency certificate from a DPS-approved course. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF TEXAS AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? |
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| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? |
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| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | Typically 60 days from the date DPS receives your application, fingerprints, and any supplemental materials. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | You can update your name/address online. If you choose to receive a new license reflecting these changes, a small fee applies. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? |
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| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? |
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| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | Applicants must complete 4-6 hours covering:
The shooting test requires 50 rounds at distances of 3, 7, and 15 yards. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? |
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| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? |
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| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | Off-limits places for permitless carry include:
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| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. It is unlawful to intentionally interfere with lawful hunting or catching of wildlife. [Tex. Parks & Wildlife Code § 62.0125] |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes, if you have a Texas LTC or a recognized out-of-state license, you can carry a concealed handgun while hunting with a shotgun/rifle. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | Yes, with a Texas LTC or recognized permit. The sidearm cannot generally be used to take game, unless otherwise permitted by law or regulation. |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | Minors under 18 can carry knives with blades under 5.5 inches. Adults can carry larger knives except in off-limits areas, including schools. [Tex. Pen. Code §§ 46.01, 46.02, 46.03] |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | Yes. There is no law in Texas that prohibits wearing a COVID-19 mask while carrying concealed. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S (LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS) OR RETIRED LEO’S? | LEOs and RLEOs can carry under LEOSA (HR 218). Qualified retired officers need annual firearm qualifications. Texas law exempts them from some licensing requirements. [Tex. Penal Code § 46.15(5)] |
Legal Note
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While every effort has been made to provide accurate and up-to-date information, laws and regulations may change, and individual circumstances can vary. It is solely the reader’s responsibility to verify the accuracy and applicability of any information presented here. The author, publisher, and any affiliated entities assume no liability for actions taken by readers based on the content of this article. For specific legal guidance, please consult a qualified attorney.
