Summary of Texas Gun Laws
Texas is a shall-issue state with concealed weapons permits issued at the state level by the Department of Public Safety.
There is no permit, background check or firearms registration required when buying a handgun from a private individual.
Open carry is only legal with a Texas License to Carry (LTC) or a concealed carry license/permit from a state with reciprocity, provided the handgun is in a shoulder or belt holster. The minimum age is 21 years old or 18 years old for active-duty military.
Concealed carry is legal with a Texas LTC or a concealed carry license/permit from a state that Texas honors. Texas LTC’s are issued to both residents and non-residents. They require a four- to six-hour training course as well as passing both a written exam and a shooting proficiency demonstration. Some areas are off-limits, including racetracks and secure areas of airports. In terms of reciprocity, Texas honors permits from states that meet specific criteria.
Texas is a Castle Doctrine and “stand your ground” state. Texas law presumes you acted reasonably and justifiably if you use deadly force to protect yourself against an unlawful, forceful intrusion into your occupied habitation (structures that are detached from where you sleep at night are not considered to be your habitation), vehicle or place of business or employment; or to prevent an unlawful, forceful attempt to remove a lawful occupant from the occupied habitation, vehicle or place of business or employment; or to prevent certain serious felonies such as burglary or arson. There is no duty to retreat if faced with a situation where you have to use force or deadly force to protect yourself or another.
Texas Gun Laws Quick Links
Reciprocity | Permit Information | Permit Application | Permit Renewal | LEOs & RLEOs | Location Restrictions | Recent Updates
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Texas Gun Laws at a Glance
Open Carry/ Concealed Carry Basics
Constitutional Carry?Does Texas allow constitutional carry? |
No. Texas is not a constitutional carry state. |
Open Carry Permitted?Is open carry permitted in Texas? |
Yes, with a LTC provided the handgun is in a shoulder or belt holster. |
Gun Permit Licensure?If Texas requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued? |
Texas is a shall-issue state. |
Minimum Age for Concealed Carry?What is the minimum age in Texas to get a concealed carry permit? |
You must be 21 to carry concealed in Texas. |
Weapons Other Than Handguns Allowed?Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Texas with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)? |
No. A Texas LTC does not apply to weapons other than handguns. |
Tasers or Stun Guns?Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Texas? |
Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a permit. |
Non-Resident Permitting?Does Texas issue concealed carry permits to non-residents? |
Yes. The process is the same as for residents. |
Public Access to Concealed Carry Registry?Does Texas allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law? |
No, however the information is available to to any criminal justice agency. |
Carry Locations
Carry in Vehicle?Can you carry a concealed firearm in a vehicle in Texas? |
Yes. Without a LTC, anyone not prohibited by law from possessing a firearm may transport a handgun so long as it is concealed. With a LTC provided the handgun is concealed or is carried in a shoulder or belt holster. |
Carry at Roadside Rest Areas?Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Texas? |
Yes, Texas LTC or a concealed carry license/permit from a state that Texas honors. |
Carry in State/National Parks, State/National Forests and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)?Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests and Wildlife Management Areas in Texas? |
Yes, with a Texas LTC or a concealed carry license/permit from a state that Texas honors. |
Carry in Restaurants That Serve Alcohol?Can you carry a firearm in restaurants that serve alcohol in Texas? |
Yes, with a Texas LTC or a concealed carry license/permit from a state that Texas honors, unless posted. |
Store in a Vehicle in an Employee Parking Lot?Does Texas have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot? |
A public or private employer may not prohibit an employee who holds a license to carry a handgun or who otherwise lawfully possesses a firearm, or who lawfully possesses ammunition from transporting or storing a firearm or ammunition the employee is authorized by law to possess in a locked, privately owned motor vehicle in a parking lot, parking garage or other parking area the employer provides for employees except in locations prohibited by state or federal law. This includes school districts or open-enrollment charter schools per Texas Education Code § 37.0815 and institutions of higher education per Gov. Code § 411.2032 provided that the firearm or ammunition is not in plain view. There are exceptions including oil and gas refineries. |
Additional Related State Laws
Must Notify Officer You're Carrying?Are you required to notify a police officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Texas? |
Yes. If a license holder is carrying a handgun on or about their person when an officer demands that the license holder display identification, the license holder shall display both the license holder’s driver’s license or identification certificate issued by the department and the license holder’s handgun license. |
Magazine Limits for Handguns?Does Texas have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? |
No. Texas has no limit for handgun magazine capacity. |
Ammunition Restrictions?Does Texas have ammunition restrictions? |
Yes. Armor-piercing ammunition is prohibited. |
"No Weapons Allowed" Signs Enforced?Are "No Weapons Allowed" signs enforced in Texas? If yes, violating the sign would be considered to be a crime. If no, violating the sign would not be considered a criminal offense. |
Yes. A license holder commits an offense if the license holder carries a concealed handgun on property of another without effective consent and having received verbal or written notice that entry on the property by a license holder with a concealed handgun was forbidden. As of September 1, 2019, Tex. Pen. Code §§ 30.06 & 30.07 provides a legal defense for License to Carry holders who unknowingly enter establishments with 30.06 or 30.07 signs, as long they promptly leave when verbally informed of the policy.
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 verbal communication and subsequently failed to depart. It is an exception to the application of this section that the property on which the license holder carries a 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. Texas Penal Code § 30.07 mirrors § 30.06 for openly carried handguns. Texas Gov't Code § 411.209 A state agency or a political subdivision of the state may not provide notice by a communication described by Penal Code30.06, 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 Section46.03 or 46.035. |
Preemption?Does Texas have preemption laws related to concealed carry (i.e. Does state law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns)? |
Yes. The authority to regulate firearms is reserved to the state, except local municipalities may:
In addition, in any county building that houses a justice court, county court, county court at law, or district court, or in any office used by these courts, any person who possesses a firearm without the court’s written authorization, or without complying with any written regulation of the court, is subject to criminal liability. Based on an Attorney General opinion, counties may prohibit concealed handgun license holders from carrying concealed handguns in county parks and rapid transit authorities may prohibit concealed handgun licensees from carrying handguns while on public transportation. |
Red Flag Law?Does Texas have a red flag law? |
No. Texas has no Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) laws. |
Carry while using alcohol or prescription medication?Does Texas have laws regarding carrying a firearm while using alcohol or prescription medication? |
Yes, but not while intoxicated in Texas. As a responsibly armed American, regardless of the laws in your state, it is unwise to carry while under the influence of any substance that could impair your judgement, slow your reaction times, or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision you make while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences. |
Handgun Purchase & Possession
Purchase Permits?Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Texas? |
No. Permits are not required when buying a handgun in Texas. |
Background Checks for Private Gun Sales?Are background checks required for private gun sales in Texas? |
No. It is recommended that you retain any sales receipts to prove ownership of the gun. |
Waiting Period?Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Texas? |
No. Texas has no mandatory waiting period for handgun purchases. |
Handgun Registration?Do handguns need to be registered in Texas? |
No. Texas does not require handgun registration. |
Minimum Age to Possess and Transport?What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Texas? |
You must be at least 18 years old to possess or transport a handgun in Texas. |
Carry While Hunting
Carry While Gun Hunting?Can you concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting in Texas? |
Yes, with a Texas LTC or a concealed carry license/permit from a state that Texas honors. |
Carry While Bow Hunting?Can you concealed carry while bowhunting in Texas? |
Yes, with a Texas LTC or a concealed carry license/permit from a state that Texas honors. |
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State Constitutional Provision
Texas Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
Which states' permits does Texas honor?
Texas honors permits from specific states provided the permit holder is at least 21 years old.
Other States' Reciprocity With Texas
Which states honor permits from Texas?
Note: Firearms must be carried in accordance with the laws of the state you are visiting. Be sure to check the laws of the other state before traveling there with your firearms.
States That Have Restricted Reciprocity with Texas
Permitless Carry States
Anyone who can legally possess a firearm may carry it concealed in permitless carry states without a permit/license. Check each state’s page for more information and any restrictions that may apply.
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Discover MembershipTexas Concealed Carry Permit Information
Requirements: |
An applicant must:
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Fees: |
$40 for standard initial licenses and renewals. $25 for initial licenses and renewals for honorably discharged military vets. |
Valid For: |
5 years |
Processing Time: |
60 days |
Application: |
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Non-Resident Concealed Carry Permits: |
Out-of-state residents must supply a color copy, front and back, of a state driver’s license or ID card and a proficiency certificate not greater than 2 years old from a course approved by the Texas Dept. of Public Safety. Applications may be submitted online or via mail. |
Name/Address Changes: |
You can make name and address changes online. |
Lost/Stolen Permits: |
You can submit a request for a new license online. You will be issued a new license number for security reasons. |
Texas Concealed Carry Permit Application Process
How to Apply for a Texas Concealed Carry Permit
Step 1: |
Download the application form or submit an online application. |
Step 2: |
Schedule an appointment for fingerprinting. All fingerprints must be submitted through L-1 Enrollment Services. There is a fee of $9.95 for fingerprinting. |
Step 3: |
Complete classroom training. Pass the written exam and pass a shooting proficiency demonstration.
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Step 4: |
Submit the Certificate of Training to the Dept. of Public Safety to complete the application. Texas Department of Public Safety |
Step 5: |
You will be notified by mail if your application has been approved. |
Firearms Training Requirements in Texas
A handgun proficiency course must include 4-6 hours of classroom or online instruction in:
- Laws that relate to weapons and to the use of deadly force;
- Handgun use and safety, including use of restraint holsters and methods to ensure the secure carrying of openly carried handguns;
- Non-violent dispute resolution; and
- Proper storage practices for handguns, including storage practices that eliminate the possibility of accidental injury to a child.
- The range instruction part of the course must include an actual demonstration by the applicant of the applicant’s ability to safely and proficiently use the applicable category of handgun. An applicant may not be certified unless he or she demonstrates, at a minimum, the degree of proficiency that is required to effectively operate a handgun.
The shooting test requires 50 rounds of ammunition fired at three distances:
- 3 yards – 20 rounds fired
- 7 yards – 20 rounds fired
- 15 yards – 10 rounds fired
The proficiency examination must also include a written (or online portal) test concerning the subjects listed above, as well as the physical demonstration of proficiency in the use and safety procedures of one or more handguns and in handgun safety procedures.
Texas Concealed Carry Permit Renewal Process
How to Renew a Texas Concealed Carry Permit
Step 1: |
You will usually be notified about 6 months before your license expires to renew it. 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. |
Step 2: |
Download the application form or submit an online renewal application. |
Step 3: |
Complete the application and pay the fee. |
Step 4: |
You will be notified by mail if your application has been approved. |
Law Enforcement Officers (LEO)/Retired LEOs
Law enforcement officers (LEOs) and Retired LEOs (RLEOs) may choose to carry under the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA), often referred to as HR 218. Under 18 U.S. Code §§ 926B & 926C, qualified LEOs and qualified retired LEOs, or those separated from service in good standing, can carry a concealed firearm in any jurisdiction in the United States, regardless of state or local laws, with some exceptions. For details check out our Federal Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA) page.
Per Tex. Gov’t Code §411.199, qualified RLEOs may obtain a sworn statement from the head of the law enforcement agency employing the applicant. The head of a law enforcement agency may not refuse to issue a statement under this subsection. An applicant described by this subsection may submit the application at any time after retirement. The RLEO shall submit the sworn statement and retirement credentials along with an application to carry under LEOSA. The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) establishes annual firearm qualification standards. Any certified TCOLE firearms instructor can qualify applicants.
Under §§ 411.1991 through 411.201, the following LEOs may apply for a license under LEOSA:
- Peace officers employed by a law enforcement agency;
- Members of the Texas military forces, excluding Texas State Guard members who are serving in the Texas Legislature;
- Reserve law enforcement officers with at least 15 years with one or more state or local law enforcement agencies;
- County jailers who hold a county jailer license;
- Correctional officer of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice;
- Active and retired judicial officers; and
- United States attorneys, assistant United States attorneys, and attorneys elected or employed to represent the state in the prosecution of felony cases.
Qualified Retired Federal or Out-of-State Officer Firearms Certificate Form
Instructions for Online Applications to Carry a Handgun under LEOSA
Texas Location Restrictions
Where Can I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Texas? |
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Where Can't I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Texas?Places off-limits even with a permit/license |
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FAQ: Texas Concealed Carry Questions
What Are the Knife Laws in Texas? |
Anyone under the age of 18 can carry a knife less than 5.5 inches in length nearly anywhere. An adult can carry any knife over 5.5 inches anywhere other than the same locations that are off-limits to firearms. Knives with knuckles and tomahawks are not legal to carry in Texas, although, as of September 1, 2019, knives with knuckles are legal due to the passage of HB 446. |
Related Information & Links for Texas Gun Laws
Texas Gun Laws Updates:
| Date | Details |
|---|---|
| 2019-09-09 | Added Carry While Hunting info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-09-03 | Updated wording in At A Glance table, Can't Carry, FAQ sections based on laws that took effect on September 1, 2019 |
| 2019-08-13 | Added anchor links to various sections below the Summary |
| 2019-07-26 | Added minimum age to possess and transport a handgun to At A Glance table |
| 2019-06-25 | Updated knife info in FAQ based on the Governor's signing of HB446 |
| 2019-06-18 | Added gun storage in vehicles in school parking lots info to the Where Can't I Carry section per the passage of HB 1143 |
| 2019-06-18 | Added |
| 2019-05-24 | Added stun gun/Taser info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-05-03 | Added permit renewal and name/address change info |
| 2019-04-19 | Links checked |
| 2019-04-02 | Added info on state implementation of Law Enforcement Officer Safety Act (LEOSA) |
| 2019-03-13 | Updated school carry info in Where Can I and Where Can't I Carry sections |
| 2019-02-22 | Added info and link to vehicle carry in At A Glance table |
| 2019-02-15 | Added pages for Federal Gun Laws, Traveling with Firearms & Terminology |
| 2019-02-09 | Added ammunition restrictions to At A Glance table |
| 2019-02-06 | Added red flag law info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-02-01 | Added info to |
| 2019-01-25 | Added church info to location restrictions section |
| 2019-01-24 | Added FAQ about alcohol or prescription medication |
| 2019-01-10 | Mag limit added to At A Glance table |
| 2018-12-13 | Added preemption info to At A Glance table |
| 2018-11-30 | Added parking lot info to At A Glance table |
| 2018-11-29 | Clarified duty to inform |
| 2018-10-22 | Added initial CCW law and reciprocity information for Texas |
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Permit numbers were obtained from the Crime Prevention Resource Center’s publication entitled, “Concealed Carry Permit Holders Across the United States: 2018.” Numbers include resident and non-resident permits for those states that issue both.
The information contained on this website is provided as a service to USCCA, Inc. Members and the concealed carry community, and does not constitute legal advice. Although we attempt to address all areas of concealed carry laws in all states, we make no claims, representations, warranties, promises or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information disclosed. Legal advice must always be tailored to the individual facts and circumstances of each individual case. Laws are constantly changing, and as such, nothing contained on this website should be used as a substitute for the advice of a lawyer.
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