#  Open Carry in Texas 

 

    Details     Written by: [Michael Richey](/contact-us)    Category: [Concealed Carry in Texas Blog](/concealed-carry-in-texas)     Published: Monday, February 13th 2023  - [ LTC/CHL License to Carry ](/content-tags/ltc-chl-license-to-carry)
- [ Open Carry ](/content-tags/open-carry)
 
  ![Open Carrying Pros and Cons for Texas](https://cdn.carry-texas.com/images/gun-belt-5538591.webp)    ### Article Links

- [ Legal Framework of Open Carry in Texas ](#plg_content_jumplinks0)
- [ Who Can Open Carry ](#plg_content_jumplinks1)
- [ Holster Requirements ](#plg_content_jumplinks2)
- [ Permissible Locations for Open Carry ](#plg_content_jumplinks3)
- [ Restricted Locations ](#plg_content_jumplinks4)
- [ Special Considerations ](#plg_content_jumplinks5)
- [ Legal Implications and Penalties ](#plg_content_jumplinks6)
- [ Defense Strategies ](#plg_content_jumplinks7)
 
 



In recent years, Texas has seen significant changes in its open carry laws, particularly with the introduction of House Bill 1927 in 2021. This guide aims to provide a detailed understanding of these laws, including who can carry, where you can carry, and the [legal implications](/concealed-carry-in-texas/self-defense-ethics-decoded-justifications-limits-and-implications "Self-Defense Ethics Decoded: Justifications, Limits, and Implications") involved.

## <a name="plg_content_jumplinks0">Legal Framework of Open Carry in Texas</a>

[Texas House Bill 1927](https://capitol.texas.gov/tlodocs/87R/billtext/html/HB01927E.htm), enacted on September 1, 2021, marked a major shift in the state's gun laws. Previously, Texans were required to have a permit to carry handguns openly or concealed. The new law allows most individuals aged 21 and over to carry a handgun without a permit, provided it is in a holster. This legislation builds on changes made in 2016, which first allowed open carry for permit holders.

## <a name="plg_content_jumplinks1">Who Can Open Carry</a>

To legally open carry in Texas, an individual must be at least 21 years old and not have any disqualifying [criminal convictions](/learn-about-ltc/getting-ready-for-the-texas-license-to-carry-test/eligibility-requirements "Eligibility Requirements") or mental health adjudications. Specifically, those convicted of misdemeanor bodily assault, deadly conduct, terroristic threat, or disorderly conduct with a firearm within the last five years are prohibited from carrying a handgun. Additionally, individuals who are fugitives, have been declared mentally incompetent, or are unlawful users of controlled substances cannot open carry.

## <a name="plg_content_jumplinks2">Holster Requirements</a>

One of the key stipulations of the open carry law is that the handgun must be carried in a holster. Unlike previous regulations that specified shoulder or belt holsters, the current law is more flexible, allowing various types of holsters including waistband, pocket, ankle, and thigh holsters. This change offers greater convenience and comfort for gun owners.

## <a name="plg_content_jumplinks3">Permissible Locations for Open Carry</a>

In general, individuals may open carry handguns in most [public spaces](/concealed-carry-in-texas/firearms-laws-and-regulations/traveling-with-firearms-in-texas-a-comprehensive-guide "Traveling in Texas with Firearms"), such as streets, parks, and the Texas State Capitol. However, there are specific areas where open carry is restricted. Private property owners and businesses also have the right to prohibit firearms on their premises, provided they post appropriate signage. If asked to leave by a business owner, individuals must comply to avoid legal trouble.

## <a name="plg_content_jumplinks4">Restricted Locations</a>

There are several locations where open carry is explicitly prohibited, regardless of signage. These include:

- Secured areas of [airports](/concealed-carry-in-texas/ltc-written-test-study-guide "LTC Written Test Study Guide")
- [Courthouses](/learn-about-ltc/after-obtaining-the-texas-license-to-carry/refreshing-your-understanding-of-texas-license-to-carry-laws "Refreshing Your Understanding of Texas License to Carry Laws")
- Polling places on voting days
- Schools and educational institutions
- Businesses with 51% or more income from alcohol sales
- [Amusement parks](/concealed-carry-in-texas/know-before-you-go-where-you-cant-conceal-carry-in-texas "Know Before You Go: Where You Can't Conceal Carry in Texas")
- Hospitals, nursing homes, and [mental health facilities](/concealed-carry-in-texas/where-can-you-not-conceal-carry-in-texas-understanding-the-restricted-areas " Texas Concealed Carry Restrictions - Where You Can't Carry")
- [Correctional facilities](/research/legislation/hb-5139-providing-a-legal-justification-for-less-lethal-force "HB 5139: Providing a Legal Justification for Less-Lethal Force ")
- Governmental meetings
 
Violating these restrictions can result in severe [legal consequences](/concealed-carry-in-texas/firearms-laws-and-regulations/the-gun-control-act-explained-a-must-read-for-texas-ltc-applicants "The Gun Control Act Explained: A Must-Read for Texas LTC Applicants"), including criminal charges.

## <a name="plg_content_jumplinks5">Special Considerations</a>

**Motor Vehicles and Watercraft**: When carrying a handgun in a vehicle or boat, it must be in a holster and not in plain view. This rule aims to prevent alarm and ensure [public safety](/research/legislation/hb-3053-a-bill-to-protect-texans-second-amendment-rights "HB 3053: A Bill to Protect Texans' Second Amendment Rights"). Exceptions are made for individuals who are "traveling," although the specific legal definition of this term can be complex and situational.

**Security Personnel**: Certain security officers are permitted to carry openly as part of their duties. Additionally, individuals may open carry on their own property or while engaged in lawful hunting or [sporting activities](/concealed-carry-in-texas/firearms-in-texas-a-rich-cultural-heritage "Firearms in Texas: A Rich Cultural Heritage").

## <a name="plg_content_jumplinks6">Legal Implications and Penalties</a>

Understanding the potential legal ramifications is crucial. Carrying a handgun while intoxicated, for instance, is classified as a [Class A misdemeanor](/learn-about-ltc/license-to-carry-basics/eligibility "Eligibility for Texas License to Carry"), which can lead to up to a year in jail and a fine of $4,000. Other common legal issues include carrying in [prohibited areas](/learn-about-ltc/getting-ready-for-the-texas-license-to-carry-test/texas-gun-laws "Texas Gun Laws") and failing to comply with signage or verbal requests to leave a premises.

## <a name="plg_content_jumplinks7">Defense Strategies</a>

If charged with an open carry violation, several defenses might be applicable. These include:

- **Lack of Criminal Intent**: Arguing that the individual did not knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly violate the law.
- **Property Ownership**: Demonstrating that the handgun was carried on property owned or controlled by the individual.
 
A skilled defense attorney can provide crucial assistance in navigating these legal challenges.

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   [  Previous article: Google: online ltc class near me - Why not take an online LTC course?   Prev ](/concealed-carry-in-texas/google-online-ltc-class-near-me-why-not-take-an-online-ltc-course) [  Next article: Maximizing Your Potential with a Texas License to Carry: What to Do Next  Next  ](/concealed-carry-in-texas/maximizing-your-potential-with-a-texas-license-to-carry-what-to-do-next) - ## Frequently Asked Questions:
    
    What is open carrying?Open carrying refers to the practice of carrying a visible firearm in public.
    
    
    
    Is open carrying legal in Texas?Yes, Texas is one of the states in the United States that allows open carrying of firearms.
    
    
    
    What are the pros of open carrying in Texas?The pros of open carrying in Texas include increased personal safety, as individuals can better defend themselves. It can also act as a deterrent for crime and improve law enforcement response times.
    
    
    
    Are there any drawbacks to open carrying in Texas?Yes, there are drawbacks to open carrying in Texas. Some concerns include intimidating others, increased risk of accidental discharge, discriminatory enforcement, and potential escalation of confrontational situations.
    
    
    
    What are the laws and regulations in Texas regarding open carrying?In order to legally open carry in Texas, individuals must meet certain requirements, such as being at least 18 years old and possessing a valid Texas handgun license. There are also restrictions on open carrying in certain government buildings and public events. Gun owners 21 and over can open carry without a license.
    
    
    
    How is public opinion on open carrying in Texas?Public opinion on open carrying in Texas is divided. Surveys and studies have shown that opinions vary depending on factors such as age, gender, and political affiliation.
    
    
    
    Can open carrying in Texas lead to an increase in crime?Some argue that the open carrying of firearms can increase crime, as individuals may be more likely to use their firearms in dangerous or confrontational situations.
    
    
    
    What penalties can individuals face for violating open carrying laws in Texas?Individuals who violate open carrying laws in Texas can face penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
    
    
    
    Will the laws and regulations on open carrying in Texas change in the future?The laws and regulations on open carrying in Texas may change in the future as the state continues to grapple with the complex issue. It is a topic of ongoing debate.
    
    
    
    How should individuals engage in the discussion on open carrying in Texas?It is important for individuals to be informed and engaged in the discussion on open carrying in Texas. By staying informed and participating in the debate, individuals can make informed decisions on this complex issue.
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