Application FAQs

The benefits of obtaining an LTC can be reviewed on the LTC Benefits page.

Texas Government Code Chapter 411, Subchapter H sets out the eligibility criteria that must be met. A number of factors may make individuals ineligible to obtain a license, such as: felony convictions, some misdemeanor convictions, including charges that resulted in probation or deferred adjudication; certain pending criminal charges; chemical or alcohol dependency; certain types of psychological diagnoses, and protective or restraining orders. The state eligibility requirements can be found in GC §411.172. The federal firearms disqualifiers can be found in 18 USC 44 §922.

You must also submit a completed application, pay the required fees, complete all required training and submit required supplemental forms and materials.

Applicants for an original (first-time) LTC should submit an online application, and schedule an appointment for fingerprinting after you have submitted an application. Applicants must also complete four to six hours of classroom training, pass a written examination and pass a proficiency demonstration (shooting).

For detailed information regarding training requirements and to locate a certified LTC instructor, see Training Requirements.

DPS will make every effort to issue your license within 60 days of receiving the completed application packet. If the application is incomplete or requires additional information to complete the background check, you will be notified in the manner you selected on your application.

The letter requesting more information or documents extends the timeline for issuing your license. DPS has an additional 180 days to complete the review process, if additional information is required from the application. To ensure your license is issued promptly, it is very important for you to provide the requested information for review. If the requested information is not received timely, the application will be terminated.

Renewal applications may be submitted online at: License To Carry A Handgun.

We will use existing fingerprints and photos on file for renewal applications. However, sometimes the quality of those prints originally submitted no longer meets the State or FBI standards. If we are unable to use the fingerprints on file, you will be notified to obtain a new set of prints along with instructions on where you must be fingerprinted.

Note: Individuals who are not US Citizens will need to provide their lawful presence documentation to the Department prior to renewal of their LTC.

The standard fee for an original LTC is $40. The standard fee for a renewal of a LTC is $40. However, Texas law provides for some discounts if you meet certain special conditions. A complete list of fees along with the special conditions can be found on the fee table.

NOTE: Fees are non-refundable and non-transferrable. If an application is not approved, the fees will not be refunded.

A contribution may be made, in the dollar amount of your choice, on an original or renewal application for an LTC. A portion of the total application fee will reflect the amount you specify. Contributing to the fund is voluntary. For more information about the program please visit: Veterans' Assistance Fund.

When applying under a special condition, you must submit supporting documents to qualify for the discount. To determine if you meet the criteria for a discount, refer to the fee table. Police officers, prosecutors and judges may obtain additional information regarding the application process on our website at Law Enforcement/Judicial Personnel.

Yes. There is a fee charged for fingerprint services. For additional information regarding the Fingerprint Application Services of Texas (FAST), please visit our website.

To schedule an appointment at a time and location convenient to you, please use one of the following methods:

1. Visit Fingerprinting Services, and enter your Service Code, OR
2. Call (888) 467-2080, and provide your Service Code when prompted.

If it is determined the fingerprints submitted with the application do not meet the required quality standards, new fingerprints must be provided. You will be notified in writing if your initial sets of fingerprints are rejected.

No. Per Texas Government Code §411.173, legal residents of another state or persons who relocate to Texas with the intent to establish residency may obtain an LTC. Those individuals must submit an application, pay the required fees, successfully complete the required training in Texas and submit all supporting documents. They also must submit form LTC-6, two passport style photos and a copy of their out-of-state driver license or state issued identification card. Note, however, that all LTC applicants must be legal residents of Texas or another state.

Yes. Subject to the requirements of federal firearms law, and if not otherwise ineligible, resident aliens and certain nonimmigrant aliens who are lawfully present in the United States may obtain the license.

Initial licenses are valid for four years. Renewal licenses are valid for five years.

NOTE: License may be subject to an earlier expiration based on lawful presence status or expiration of protective order.

You may submit a request to change the address on your LTC online at License To Carry A Handgun

Students attending school out-of-state may leave their permanent address on their LTC. The address change will be required once the student has established a different permanent address.

NOTE: Changing the address on your Texas Driver License or ID Card will not automatically change the address on your LTC. You must submit a separate request at License To Carry A Handgun.

You may submit a request to replace a lost or stolen license online at: License To Carry A Handgun

NOTE: When DPS replaces a lost/stolen license, the license number will be changed for security reasons.

January 1, 2016, per House Bill 910 passed by the 84^th Texas Legislature.

Yes. Your LTC License card will remain valid until it expires. Upon renewal, it will be printed on the newly redesigned card. All licenses printed after February 24, 2020 will be printed on the newly redesigned card.

No. Should you wish to receive the newly redesigned license, a replacement license may be obtained by submitting duplicate/change of address form. This form can be found under downloadable forms at: LTC-70. Applicable replacement fees will apply, when required. The title caption at the top of the newly redesigned card will read "License to Carry Handgun."

See the two videos, on Firearm Safety and on Firearm Handling, at Firearm Carry Act | Department of Public Safety (texas.gov).

Click here for LTC Benefits | Department of Public Safety (texas.gov).