A Guide for Texas LTC Holders
Understanding where you can legally carry a handgun is one of the most important responsibilities of gun ownership in Texas. While Texas allows permitless carry, many residents obtain a Texas License to Carry so they fully understand the laws and restrictions surrounding concealed carry.
Knowing where carry is allowed — and where it is prohibited — helps Texans stay compliant with state law and avoid serious legal issues.
Places You CAN Carry in Texas
In many everyday locations, licensed handgun carriers can legally carry a concealed firearm.
Common places where carry is typically allowed include:
- Grocery stores
- Gas stations
- Retail stores
- Restaurants that do not derive most of their revenue from alcohol (51% Rule)
- Parking lots and public areas
However, property owners may still restrict carry if they provide proper notice under Texas law. Please note this is not an all-inclusive list of locations that Texas LTC is allowed to carry.
Places You CANNOT Carry in Texas
Texas law prohibits carrying a handgun in certain locations regardless of whether you have a Texas License to Carry.
Some of these prohibited places include:
Schools
Firearms are generally prohibited on school premises unless specific authorization exists.
Polling Locations
Handguns are prohibited during elections at polling places.
Courtrooms
Carrying firearms inside courtrooms is not permitted.
Secure Areas of Airports
The secure portions of airports prohibit firearms.
These restrictions are defined and enforced under regulations overseen by the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Understanding the Texas 51% Rule
Texas has strict rules regarding alcohol-serving establishments.
Locations that earn 51% or more of their revenue from alcohol sales display a red “51%” sign. Carrying a handgun inside these establishments is illegal.
However, restaurants that serve alcohol but primarily sell food generally allow licensed concealed carry. Unless otherwise posted.
Businesses That Post 30.06 or 30.07 Signs
Texas law allows businesses to prohibit firearms on their property using specific legal notices.
These include:
- 30.06 signs prohibiting concealed carry
- 30.07 signs prohibiting open carry
If proper signage is displayed, license holders must follow the posted restrictions. Keep in mind that 30.05 signs are for permitless carriers.
Why Many Texans Still Get an LTC
Even though Texas has permitless carry, many residents choose to obtain a Texas License to Carry because it provides:
- formal training in Texas firearm laws
- reciprocity with many other states
- a deeper understanding of legal responsibilities
- confidence when carrying in public
Completing Texas License to Carry training ensures that gun owners understand where carrying is lawful and where restrictions apply.
Check the Texas LTC Requirements here to see if you are eligible for an LTC.
Start Your Texas LTC Training
If you want to better understand Texas carry laws and the responsibilities of carrying a handgun, completing a Texas Concealed Carry class is the best place to start.
Our Online Texas LTC Course allows you to complete the classroom portion from home while preparing to apply for your license.
Many Texans choose to complete their training online before continuing the licensing process with the Texas Department of Public Safety.
👉 Learn more about our Texas Online LTC Class.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Texas LTC?
Once all required documents are submitted, the Texas Department of Public Safety processes the application.
Processing times vary, but many applicants receive their license within several weeks.
Completing the Online Texas LTC Course early helps speed up the process.
Military and Veteran LTC Exemption
Military members and veterans may qualify for an exemption from the shooting proficiency requirement.
Applicants who have military range qualification scores or proof of firearms familiarization training within the past 10 years may not need to complete the shooting portion.
This makes obtaining a Texas License to Carry even easier for military personnel.
Train First…Shoot Second
By clicking “Online Class” you will be redirected to the website of our affiliate partner, Texas Carry Academy. There, you can complete your enrollment and purchase, for your Texas Approved Online LTC Course! If you feel an Instructor Led class would be more beneficial, please visit our class schedule to enroll.
