If you're a resident of Texas and want a License to Carry (LTC) issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), there's a process. The application process can be daunting, so we've put together a guide to help you navigate it with ease. In this article, we'll cover the eligibility criteria to obtain an LTC, the application process and requirements, and the fees involved.
Eligibility Criteria to Obtain a License to Carry
To be eligible for an LTC, you must meet certain criteria. You must be at least 21 years old, a legal resident of Texas, and not have any felony convictions, among other requirements. Let's take a closer look at the eligibility criteria.
Age Requirement
To obtain an LTC, you must be at least 21 years old. If you're between 18 and 21 years old, you may be eligible for a Provisional License to Carry (PLC) if you're a member or veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces, have an honorable discharge, or are currently serving in the National Guard or Reserves.
Residency Requirement
You must be a legal resident of Texas to obtain an LTC. If you're a non-resident, you may be eligible for a Non-Resident License to Carry (NRL), which is valid for five years.
Criminal History Requirement
You cannot have any felony convictions, pending felony charges, Class A or B misdemeanor convictions within the past five years, or be currently under a protective order.
Application Process and Requirements
Once you've determined that you're eligible for an LTC, you'll need to complete the application process. This involves several steps, including completing a training course, submitting your application, and undergoing a background check.
Training Course
Before applying for an LTC, you must complete a training course that includes classroom and range instruction. The course must be taught by a certified LTC instructor and cover topics such as firearm safety, use of force laws, and non-violent dispute resolution.
Application Submission
Once you've completed the training course, you can submit your application online or by mail. You'll need to provide personal information, including your name, address, and Social Security number. You'll also need to submit a set of fingerprints and a passport-style photo.
Background Check
After submitting your application, DPS will conduct a background check to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria. This includes a review of your criminal history, mental health records, and any other factors that may disqualify you from obtaining an LTC.
Fees Involved in Obtaining a License to Carry
Obtaining an LTC involves several fees, including the cost of the training course, application fee, and fingerprinting fee.
Training Course Fee
The cost of the training course varies depending on the instructor and location. On average, the course costs between $100 and $200.
Application Fee
The application fee for an LTC is $40 for first-time applicants and $40 for renewals. If you're a senior citizen or honorably discharged veteran, you may be eligible for a reduced fee.
Fingerprinting Fee
You'll need to have your fingerprints taken as part of the application process. The cost of fingerprinting varies depending on the location and method of submission. The fee ranges from $9.95 to $24.95.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Texas License to Carry involves meeting eligibility criteria, completing a training course, submitting an application, and undergoing a background check. It also involves several fees, including the cost of the training course, application fee, and fingerprinting fee. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are willing to complete the application process, you can obtain an LTC and exercise your right to carry a handgun in public.
Remember that carrying a handgun comes with a great responsibility, and it's important to always follow proper safety measures and laws. It's also important to regularly renew your license to ensure that you're always in compliance with the law.
If you're considering obtaining an LTC, we encourage you to do your research and consult with a certified LTC instructor to ensure that you understand the laws and responsibilities that come with carrying a handgun in public.
