Texas Gun Laws

If you're interested in carrying a firearm in Texas, you must obtain a License to Carry (LTC). The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) requires applicants to pass a written test and a shooting proficiency test. In this article, we'll discuss everything you need to know to get ready for the Texas License to Carry test.  Let's get busy understanding the basics of Texas gun laws.

Before you can carry a firearm in Texas, it's essential to understand the basics of Texas gun laws. Here are some important things to know:

Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry

Texas allows both open carry and concealed carry of firearms for individuals who hold an LTC. Open carry means carrying a handgun in a shoulder or belt holster that is visible to others, while concealed carry means carrying a handgun in a manner that is not visible to others.

Age Requirements

To apply for an LTC in Texas, you must be at least 21 years old. However, there are exceptions for active-duty military members and honorably discharged veterans.

Background Check

As part of the LTC application process, the DPS will conduct a background check. Applicants with certain criminal convictions, including felony convictions, may be disqualified from obtaining an LTC.

Alcohol and Firearms

It's illegal to carry a firearm while intoxicated in Texas. The legal limit for blood alcohol content while carrying a firearm is 0.08%.

Different Types of Firearms and Their Uses

There are many different types of firearms available in Texas, and each has its own unique characteristics and uses. Here are some of the most common types of firearms and their uses:

Handguns

Handguns are small, compact firearms that are designed to be carried and used with one hand. They are commonly used for self-defense and target shooting.

Rifles

Rifles are long guns that are designed to be fired from the shoulder. They are typically used for hunting, target shooting, and long-range shooting.

Shotguns

Shotguns are firearms that fire a group of pellets, called shot, at a target. They are commonly used for hunting, skeet shooting, and home defense.

Restrictions on Carrying Firearms in Texas

While Texas allows both open carry and concealed carry of firearms, there are some restrictions on where you can carry them. Here are some important restrictions to keep in mind:

Gun-Free Zones

Texas law prohibits carrying firearms in certain locations, such as schools, polling places, and government buildings.

Private Property

Private property owners have the right to prohibit individuals from carrying firearms on their property. If a property owner posts a sign prohibiting firearms, it's illegal to carry a firearm on that property.

Restricted Areas

Some areas, such as airports and courthouses, have restrictions on carrying firearms. It's important to check the regulations for any areas you plan to visit before carrying a firearm.

Penalties for Violating Gun Laws in Texas

Violating Texas gun laws can result in serious penalties, including fines and imprisonment. Here are some of the most common penalties for violating Texas gun laws:

Unlawful Carrying of a Weapon

Carrying a firearm in a prohibited location can result in a Class A misdemeanor, which carries a maximum penalty of one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000.

Felon in Possession of a Firearm

If you've been convicted of a felony, it's illegal to possess a firearm in Texas. Violating this law can result in a third-degree felony, which carries a penalty of 2-10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Intoxication and Firearms

Carrying a firearm while intoxicated is a Class A misdemeanor, which carries a maximum penalty of one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000. If you use a firearm while intoxicated, the penalties are even more severe.

Unlawful Transfer of a Firearm

Transferring a firearm to someone who is prohibited from owning a firearm is illegal in Texas. Violating this law can result in a third-degree felony, which carries a penalty of 2-10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person

It's illegal for certain individuals to possess firearms in Texas, including those with felony convictions, those who are subject to protective orders, and those who are adjudicated as mentally ill. Violating this law can result in a third-degree felony, which carries a penalty of 2-10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Conclusion

Getting ready for the Texas License to Carry test requires a thorough understanding of Texas gun laws, different types of firearms, and the restrictions and penalties associated with carrying firearms in Texas. By studying and practicing for the written test and shooting proficiency test, you can ensure that you are prepared to obtain an LTC and carry a firearm safely and responsibly.

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