License to Carry (LTC) Information
License to Carry (LTC) was formally known as the Concealed Handgun License (CHL). It is no longer called CHL due to open carry laws, and the license was renamed LTC.
If you already have a LTC/CHL, 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 and includes the range time and a written test. After successful completion of the class, you will leave the class with a Certificate of Training (LTC-100). Our classes are posted at https://www.shadyoaksgunrange.com/events/ Just look for “License to Carry (LTC) Class” to sign up for a class.
Option 2: Online & In-Person ($60 for online PLUS either $45 or $60 for range)
This option has two parts. First, complete the classroom portion online at OnlineTexasLTC.com/ShadyOaks. After you complete the classroom portion, you will be given a Certificate of Training (LTC-101). Schedule time with a LTC instructor, in-person, to complete Part B (Range Instruction) and Part C (Proficiency Demonstration).
Group classes are posted at https://www.shadyoaksgunrange.com/events/ Just look for “LTC Range Qualification Only” to sign up for a class.
This can also be done in combination with a Private Lesson, but you must make sure that the instructor is a certified LTC instructor. Not all instructors can certify your range qualification.
Please understand we have very limited availability for private lessons with LTC instructors at this time. LTC instructors post their availability here: https://www.shadyoaksgunrange.com/ltc-online-range-portion/
Miscellaneous Info for LTC:
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/
Application (Part 1 of 3)
Complete and submit your LTC Application online.
https://www.texasonline.state.tx.us/txapp/txdps/ltc/
You can complete your application first or you can take the class first. The order of completion is not important.
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:
https://www.dps.texas.gov/RSD/LTC/LicenseRegistration/ltcFingerprintInfo.htm
LTC Class (Part 3 of 3)
Mandatory Course Topics
There are four (4) required 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 70% is required to pass the classroom portion of class.
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. You have one year from the date of your LTC application to complete your fingerprint appointment and submit your Certificate of Training to DPS. Your Class Completion Certificate is valid for two years after your LTC class.