License to Carry (LTC) Information
License to Carry (LTC) was formally known as the Concealed Handgun License (CHL).
If you already have a LTC, consider taking the LTC/CHL Online Refresher Class. This class is not required to renew your LTC, but the class is helpful to stay current on legislative updates.
FOR NEW LTC APPLICANTS:
Please understand that the LTC Class is for experienced shooters. If you have never handled a firearm, you must get handgun training prior to completing the range qualification. You don’t need to be an expert marksman, but you absolutely must demonstrate a basic level of safety at all times. You must keep your finger off the trigger when not shooting. You must be aware of where your muzzle is pointed at all times. You must be able to load and unload your firearm by yourself.
There are TWO options for completing the LTC requirements.
Option 1: In-Person ($100)
Take the complete class in-person and range qualification same day. This option is scheduled for six hours from start to finish. It is mainly composed of classroom lecture, written test, and range qualification test. (More details below.) After successful completion, you will leave the class with a Certificate of Training (LTC-100). You can sign up for the License to Carry (LTC) Class on our website class calendar.
Option 2: Online & In-Person Combo ($60 for online classroom PLUS additional fee for range portion)
This option has two parts. First, complete the classroom portion online at OnlineTexasLTC.com/ShadyOaks or with another authorized provider. After completion, you will be given a Certificate of Training (LTC-101). Second, make arrangements with a LTC instructor to complete Part B (Range Instruction) and Part C (Proficiency Demonstration) in-person. To schedule this time at Shady Oaks Gun Range, you have two options:
Plan A (for experienced shooters) – If you are confident and experienced with your firearm, you may want to sign up for a group class LTC Range Qualification Only which includes a brief safety lecture followed by the range qualification. This is for students who can operate their firearm independently and will need little to no coaching. This class generally consists of 10 people on the line all shooting at the same time under the direction of the LTC instructor. You must be able to demonstrate safety and competence at all times. This class is $45.
Plan B (for less experienced shooters) – If you need a little coaching or are apprehensive about completing the range qualification in a group class environment, make an appointment for a Private Lesson $60 for one hour, exclusive one-on-one with an instructor for a private LTC Range Qualification. It may take more than one lesson before you’re ready to complete the qualification. Talk to your instructor about a plan that will work best for you.
Please note that all of our instructors are able to provide basic handgun training; however, only an LTC instructor can sign-off on your LTC Certificate of Training form.
Shady Oaks Gun Range Staff LTC instructors:
LTC instructors post their availability for private lessons here: https://www.shadyoaksgunrange.com/ltc-online-range-portion/
INFO FOR ALL LTC APPLICANTS
There are three things that need to be completed, but the order of completion is not important. Some people start the application first, others take the class first.
Application (Part 1 of 3)
Complete and submit your LTC Application and payment online.
https://www.texasonline.state.tx.us/txapp/txdps/ltc/
You have one year from the date of your LTC application to submit your fingerprints and submit your Certificate of Training.
Fingerprint Appointment (Part 2 of 3)
Schedule a Fingerprint Appointment. You must have started your LTC application before making an appointment for fingerprints. Walk-in service is not available at DPS. Fingerprints must be obtained from an approved location contracted by DPS. More information can be found on the DPS website.
LTC Class (Part 3 of 3)
As detailed above, you have two options for completing the classroom portion. Either option will cover these mandatory course topics:
- Laws that Relate to Weapons & Use of Deadly Force
- Handgun Use & Safety
- Non-Violent Dispute Resolution
- Proper Storage Practices
Written Test
- It is required that each applicant take a written test that consists of 25 questions multiple choice and true/false questions.
- A score of at least 70% is required to pass the written test.
Range Qualification
Effective Sept. 1, 2017 – There is no minimum caliber requirement of the handgun used to demonstrate proficiency.
The course of fire can be found on the Texas DPS website at: texreg.sos.state.tx.us/fids/201700716-1.pdf
You will need:
- Handgun of your choice (Rentals available if needed)
- Minimum 50 rounds of ammunition (Available for purchase if needed)
- Hearing and eye protection (Available for purchase if needed)
- Hat and closed-toed shoes (recommended)
Certificate of Training
Once you have completed the LTC Class requirements, you will be given a Certificate of Training to be sent to TXDPS for processing. Your Class Completion Certificate is valid for two years after your LTC class.
Check Your Eligibility
To qualify for a Texas LTC you must:
- Be at least 21 years old. (Members of the armed forces must be at least 18.)
- Have a clean criminal history, including military service and recent juvenile records.
- Not be under a protective order.
- Not be chemically dependent.
- Not be delinquent in paying fines, fees, child support, etc.
- Be of sound mind.
- Be eligible to purchase a handgun by completing the NICS check.
- Complete required training.
If you have questions concerning your eligibility, you may contact the DPS Regulatory Services Division (RSD) helpline at (512) 424-7293 or contact them via their website at www.dps.texas.gov/RSD/