In Texas, a License to Carry (LTC) is a permit that allows individuals to carry a handgun either concealed or openly in public. While Texas has a permitless carry law (also known as constitutional carry), meaning you do not need an LTC to carry a handgun in most cases, some people still opt to get the LTC for various reasons. Here are some pros and cons of having a Texas LTC:
Pros of Having a Texas LTC:
- Legal Recognition of Concealed Carry:
- While Texas allows permitless carry, having an LTC provides a legal foundation for carrying a firearm in public. This is especially beneficial if you want to carry concealed, as you will have the official legal right to do so.
- It also allows for concealed carry in places where otherwise, people without an LTC may be limited.
- Reciprocity with Other States:
- One of the main benefits of having a Texas LTC is the ability to carry your firearm legally in other states that have reciprocity agreements with Texas. Several other states recognize Texas’ LTC, meaning you’ll be able to carry your handgun in those states legally.
- Currently, Texas has reciprocity agreements with over 30 states, which is a significant advantage for travelers who want to carry a firearm across state lines.
- Avoid Legal Complications in Gun-Free Zones:
- Even with permitless carry, Texas law still restricts carrying in certain “gun-free” zones (such as schools, private businesses with no-gun signs, and certain government buildings). However, having an LTC allows you to carry in some locations that would otherwise be prohibited for permitless carriers.
- For example, a person with an LTC is allowed to carry in places like churches and private businesses that have not posted signs banning firearms, whereas permitless carriers might face restrictions in these areas.
- Avoidance of Legal Scrutiny:
- An LTC provides a sense of confidence and clarity when interacting with law enforcement. If you’re stopped for a routine traffic stop or any other reason, having an LTC means you can show that you’re a law-abiding gun owner, which might help avoid complications or misunderstandings.
- Access to Specific Benefits:
- Texas LTC holders can attend concealed carry courses to improve their understanding of firearm laws, self-defense tactics, and the safe handling of weapons. These courses are beneficial for both legal and personal safety.
- Additionally, LTC holders are sometimes allowed to carry in places where permitless carriers might be restricted, such as some private property or businesses.
- Discretionary Carry in Some Situations:
- An LTC is particularly beneficial for individuals who want to carry concealed in certain situations where discretion or privacy is valued, such as in a crowded public area.
Cons of Having a Texas LTC:
- Cost and Time to Obtain:
- The process of obtaining a Texas LTC involves application fees, fingerprinting, and a background check, which can take time. As of 2025, the fee is around $40, and additional costs could include the training course, which usually costs between $75 to $100.
- The course required for an LTC includes classroom instruction on laws regarding the use of force, gun safety, and a shooting proficiency test. This adds to the time and financial commitment compared to permitless carry.
- Training Requirements:
- While some people see it as an advantage to have formal training, the mandatory class could be a drawback for those who are already experienced gun owners and feel they don’t need it. The shooting test and classroom portion may not be necessary for everyone, especially if you’re an experienced gun owner.
- Potential for Mistakes During Interactions with Law Enforcement:
- While an LTC should make law enforcement interactions smoother, any interaction with police while carrying a firearm can carry risks. For example, if you forget to inform an officer that you’re carrying or if your firearm is not in compliance with specific laws, it could lead to misunderstandings or legal complications.
- Being in a vehicle with a firearm, even as an LTC holder, can also create tricky situations that require full awareness of Texas laws.
- Limited to Only Handguns:
- An LTC in Texas only applies to handguns. If you want to carry other types of firearms, such as rifles or shotguns, you would still need to abide by different laws that may require other types of permits or restrictions.
- Increased Legal Complexity:
- While an LTC holder enjoys many privileges, they are also held to a higher standard in certain situations. LTC holders are expected to adhere to stricter rules and regulations about carrying in certain places (e.g., private property or business locations that post a “No Firearms” sign). If you’re carrying without a permit, it’s easier to be less aware of these legal nuances.
- Public Perception:
- Some people might feel uneasy about carrying a firearm, whether openly or concealed. Even though you have the legal right, carrying a gun can sometimes provoke negative reactions or uncomfortable situations, especially in areas where others may not be familiar with the LTC process.
- Restricted Locations:
- While an LTC allows you to carry in more places than a permitless carrier might, there are still many places where both LTC and permitless carriers are restricted (e.g., schools, polling places, government offices). An LTC doesn’t give blanket permission to carry anywhere you want.
Long Story Shorter:
Getting a Texas LTC comes with a range of benefits, such as reciprocity with other states, legal protection when carrying, and more discretion in certain areas. However, it also comes with added costs, requirements, and a responsibility to follow more regulations. Whether or not it’s right for you depends on your personal preferences, lifestyle, and how much value you place on the added legal protections and privileges that come with the license.
For many Texans, the convenience of being able to carry legally, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing they’ve gone through a structured process, makes the LTC worth the effort. But if you’re comfortable with the state’s permitless carry laws and don’t plan on traveling out of state, you may find that carrying without a permit is sufficient.
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