Your complete guide to firearms regulations in the Lone Star State. Texas is known for its gun-friendly laws and strong support for the Second Amendment.
CHL/LTC requirements, application process, and reciprocity
As of September 1, 2021, Texas allows eligible residents to carry handguns without a license (constitutional carry). However, obtaining an LTC provides additional benefits including reciprocity with other states.
Note: Constitutional carry does not apply to long guns, and certain locations remain prohibited.
Attend an approved LTC course (typically 4-6 hours) covering laws, safety, and shooting qualification.
Submit application through the Texas DPS website with training certificate and application fee ($40).
Schedule and complete electronic fingerprinting at an approved location.
Texas DPS processes applications within 60 days. Digital license available within 45 days typically.
Note: Reciprocity agreements can change. Always verify before traveling.
Regulations for openly carrying firearms in Texas
Texas allows the open carry of handguns by individuals with a valid License to Carry (LTC). With constitutional carry, handguns may be carried openly in a shoulder or belt holster by eligible individuals.
Open carry of handguns is legal with LTC or under constitutional carry provisions
Long guns may generally be openly carried in public, but local ordinances may impose restrictions. Always verify with local authorities.
Concealed carry of long guns is generally not permitted without specific authorization. Rifles and shotguns should be transported openly or secured.
Requirements for purchasing firearms in Texas
All firearm purchases through Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs) require:
Texas does not impose any waiting period between purchase and delivery of firearms.
Texas does not require registration of firearms or licensing of gun owners.
Texas residents do not need a permit to purchase a firearm.
Private sales between Texas residents do not require a background check. However, federal law prohibits sales to prohibited persons.
Under federal law (18 USC 922), the following persons cannot purchase or possess firearms:
Local regulations in Texas cities
Harris County
Bexar County
Dallas County
Travis County
Tarrant County
El Paso County
Important information about firearms on tribal lands
Tribal nations in Texas operate under their own sovereignty and may have firearms regulations that differ significantly from Texas state law. Tribal lands are not subject to Texas state firearms regulations, but tribal law enforcement has authority over firearms on their reservations.
Always contact the specific tribal authority before carrying or transporting firearms onto tribal lands.
Livingston, TX Area
Contact tribal headquarters for specific firearms regulations before visiting.
Eagle Pass, TX Area
Border region - additional federal regulations may apply.
El Paso, TX Area
Border region - contact tribal police for regulations.
Quick reference guide to important Texas firearms regulations
Texas has a strong Castle Doctrine. No duty to retreat in your home, vehicle, or place of work. Presumption of reasonableness for force.
Texas has no duty to retreat when in a place where one has a legal right to be. Deadly force justified under certain circumstances.
Handguns may be carried in vehicles without a license (constitutional carry). Must be in a holster or console. Long guns unrestricted.
Texas state law preempts local firearms regulations. Cities and counties cannot enact stricter firearms ordinances.
No state-mandated storage requirements. Child access prevention laws apply. Unsecured firearms accessible to minors can result in charges.
Texas enacted extreme risk protection order laws in 2019. Allows family members and law enforcement to petition for firearm removal.
Texas frequently updates its firearms laws through legislation and court decisions. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive alerts about changes that may affect your rights.
Subscribe to Law UpdatesCommon questions about firearms laws in Texas
As of September 1, 2021, Texas allows constitutional carry, meaning you can carry a handgun without a license. However, obtaining a License to Carry (LTC) provides benefits like reciprocity with other states.
Yes, open carry is legal in Texas with a valid LTC or under constitutional carry provisions. The handgun must be in a shoulder or belt holster.
Texas honors concealed carry permits from many states. However, some states' permits are not recognized. Always verify the current reciprocity list on the Texas DPS website before traveling.
You may carry in restaurants that serve alcohol as long as you are not consuming alcohol and the establishment is not primarily a bar (51%+ of revenue from alcohol sales). Drinking alcohol while carrying is illegal.
Generally no. Firearms are prohibited in campus buildings and on grounds of institutions of higher education. Some private universities may allow licensed carry. Faculty and staff may not carry on campus.
Carrying in a prohibited location is a Class A misdemeanor for first offense, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and $4,000 fine. Subsequent offenses or carrying in certain sensitive locations can be felony charges.
Browse gun laws for all 50 states or check out other key states with detailed breakdowns.