In Texas, anyone 18 years of age or older can get a license to carry a handgun. In 2023 Texas DPS lowered the minimum age requirements to 18 years of age. Those 18 years old and up can carry a handgun in public once they receive their license to carry. Although 18 year olds can get a license and carry a handgun they still can’t purchase handguns from a dealer because of federal law. They can however purchase one from a private person or they can be gifted one.
Steps To Get A Texas LTC
The process to get a Texas license to carry is simple and is the same for everyone. You must take the license to carry class and apply for your license on the DPS website. Most people take the class online. Once you complete the class and submit your online application to DPS they will process it and issue your license. You will receive the license in the mail. It can take up to 60 days to issue your license but it usually only takes a few weeks.
LTC Class
The most popular way to get certified for a Texas license to carry is to take the online class. The online class is available 24/7 from the comfort of your home and it’s a self paced class. You no longer have to take the class in person. The online class is available statewide and it is the first step in getting your license. The class will also cover the application process step by step.
Once you complete the online class you will be able to download your certificate of training instantly. The certificate of training is also called the LTC 101. It is the proof needed to send to DPS showing you completed the class.
License Renewal
Once you receive your license to carry it will be valid for five years. Every five years you will renew it online on the DPS website. There is no class needed to renew. If you move outside of Texas you can still keep and renew your license from another state.
It’s important that you don’t let your LTC expire. If you do you can still renew it online as long as it has not been expired for longer than 12 months. Once it’s expired for longer than 12 months you must take the class all over again.
