If you’re a resident of Texas and want to carry a handgun for personal protection, you may be wondering how to apply for a License to Carry (LTC). The process can seem overwhelming, but with a little guidance, you can navigate the requirements and ensure a smooth application process. Here’s everything you need to know about applying for a Texas License to Carry.
Eligibility Requirements:
Before you start the application process, it’s important to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements for an LTC in Texas. To qualify, you must:
– Be at least 21 years of age
– Have not been convicted of a felony
– Have not been convicted of a Class A or Class B misdemeanor within the past 5 years
– Not be chemically dependent
– Not be incapable of exercising sound judgment with respect to the proper use and storage of a handgun
– Not be delinquent in paying any court-ordered child support or delinquent in paying a civil or criminal fine, fee, or cost imposed in relation to a judgment or other decision by any court
– Be legally qualified to purchase a handgun under federal and state laws
– Have completed the required training
Completion of Training:
One of the key requirements for obtaining a Texas LTC is the completion of a state-approved handgun proficiency course. The course must be at least 4-6 hours long and cover topics such as state laws regarding the use of force, non-violent dispute resolution, safe storage of firearms, and handgun proficiency. Once you’ve completed the course, you’ll receive a certificate of completion, which is a necessary document for your LTC application.
Fingerprinting and Background Check:
After completing the required training, you’ll need to schedule fingerprinting with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). The fingerprints will be used to conduct a background check, which is a crucial step in the LTC application process. The background check will ensure that you meet all the eligibility requirements and have not been convicted of any disqualifying offenses.
LTC Application:
Once you’ve completed the training and obtained your fingerprinting, you can submit your LTC application to the Texas DPS. The application can be submitted online or through the mail, and you will need to provide your certificate of completion, proof of fingerprinting, and pay the required application fee. The DPS will review your application, conduct a background check, and issue your LTC if you meet all the eligibility requirements.
Renewing your LTC:
Once you’ve obtained your Texas License to Carry, it’s important to keep in mind that it expires after 5 years. To renew your LTC, you’ll need to complete a 4-hour LTC renewal course and submit your renewal application to the DPS. It’s crucial to renew your LTC before it expires to avoid carrying a handgun without a valid license.
In conclusion, applying for a Texas License to Carry involves several steps, including completing a handgun proficiency course, undergoing fingerprinting and a background check, and submitting your application to the Texas DPS. By ensuring that you meet all the eligibility requirements and providing all the necessary documentation, you can obtain your LTC and legally carry a handgun for personal protection. Remember to renew your license before it expires to maintain your legal authorization to carry a handgun in Texas.