As a certified Texas LTC instructor, Texas DPS RSD licensed Level 3 firearms instructor, and NRA-certified instructor, I often get questions from LTC holders across the state. Thanks to my online presence at carry-texas.com, people reach out with real-world scenarios that can benefit anyone carrying in Texas. Recently, I received an email that’s worth sharing—it’s a perfect example of a situation many LTC holders might face. Elizabeth got married, and needed to know the LTC process for updating your name.
The Question
On March 26, 2025, Elizabeth emailed me:
“My LTC is expiring on 4/5/2025. I have not changed my name yet from getting married. Can I do both at the same time? Will the renewal pick up the name change from my TDL [Texas Driver’s License]?”
Elizabeth isn’t a client—she’s just an LTC holder looking for clarity. But her question is one I’ve heard before, and the answer can help anyone navigating a similar situation. License renewal questions come in all the time - but this one came with a twist: updating your name.
The Process: Renewal and Name Changes
In Texas, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) manages LTC renewals and updates. Here’s how to handle a renewal and a name change, based on my experience as a licensed instructor:
Renewal First (LTC-77 Form)
To renew your LTC, use the LTC-77 form, available on the Texas DPS website. Submit it before your expiration date—April 5, 2025, in Elizabeth’s case—to keep your license active. The renewal process uses the information currently on file, so it won’t automatically reflect a name change.
Name Change Second (LTC-70 Form)
Updating your name after marriage or another legal change, submit the LTC-70 form, also on the DPS website. This ensures your LTC matches your current legal ID, like your Texas Driver’s License. However, you’ll need to handle this separately from the renewal.
Can You Do Both at Once?
Technically, you could submit both forms together, but I recommend doing the renewal first, then the name change. Why?
- Avoid a Lapse: If the name change delays your renewal processing, you could end up without a valid LTC.
- Keep It Simple: Renewing first gets you a new card quickly. Then, updating your name on an active license is a straightforward follow-up step.
For Elizabeth, renewing before April 5, 2025, keeps her covered. Once she has her renewed LTC, she can submit the LTC-70 to reflect her new married name.
Pro Tips from a Texas LTC Expert
- Update Your TDL First: If your driver’s license still shows your old name, update it at the Texas DMV before submitting the LTC-70. Your LTC name must match your current ID.
- Act Early: DPS suggests submitting renewals at least 30 days before expiration. Don’t cut it close!
- Double-Check: Ensure all forms are filled out correctly—errors can slow things down.
Why This Matters
Elizabeth’s email shows how everyday life events—like getting married—can intersect with your LTC responsibilities. Staying on top of renewals and updates keeps you compliant and ready to carry legally. It’s also a reminder of why I maintain carry-texas.com: to provide clear, reliable info for Texas LTC holders.
