What Every Student Should Know
Headed to college this fall? Whether you’re a freshman, transfer student, graduate student, or returning for another semester, it’s important to understand Texas campus carry laws before bringing a handgun onto campus.
Many Texans mistakenly believe that permitless carry applies everywhere. It doesn’t. If you plan to legally carry a handgun on a Texas college campus, you’ll need a Texas License to Carry (LTC). (Texas Department of Public Safety)
👉 Learn more about our Texas Online LTC Class.
Can You Carry a Handgun on a Texas College Campus?
Yes—but only under specific circumstances.
Texas law allows Texas LTC holders to carry a concealed handgun on most college and university campuses. However, every institution is allowed to establish reasonable rules that restrict carry in certain locations, provided they do not effectively ban campus carry altogether. (Justia)
Carrying on campus requires the individual to know where, how, and in what locations they can carry. Most schools allow LTC holders to carry in public areas of the dorms, other public areas on the campus, in the classroom, and in buildings that it would be reasonable to the student to carry in that location. It is your responsibility to know your schools’ rules on campus carry, and what locations carry is prohibited.
Remember:
- ✅ You must have a valid Texas LTC.
- ✅ Your handgun must remain concealed.
- ❌ Open carry is not allowed on college campuses.
- ❌ Permitless carry does not authorize carrying on campus. (Texas Department of Public Safety)
Why Get a Texas LTC Before College?
While Texas has permitless carry in many public places, college campuses are one of the biggest exceptions.
Having your Texas LTC allows eligible students 18 years of age and older to legally carry a concealed handgun on many Texas college campuses while also providing the license holder education on:
- Texas self-defense laws
- Safe firearm handling
- Conflict avoidance
- Legal responsibilities of carrying a handgun
- Prohibited places and signage
The knowledge gained during the LTC course can help you make informed decisions if you ever find yourself in a dangerous situation.
Areas Where Carry May Still Be Prohibited on Campus
Even with a Texas LTC, you cannot assume every building is legal for concealed carry.
Many colleges designate specific gun exclusion zones, which may include:
- Certain laboratories
- Sporting events
- Areas used for K–12 programs (federal law)
- Some administrative offices
- Certain healthcare or mental health counseling facilities
- Other locations posted with legally compliant signage
Each school publishes its own Campus Carry policy, so always review your college’s rules before carrying. (University of Texas at Austin) (Texas A&M University) (Texas Tech University) (Midwestern State University) (University of Houston) (University of Texas at Dallas) (University of Texas at Arlington) (Temple University) (Sam Houston State University)
Who Should Consider Getting an LTC?
A Texas License to Carry is a smart investment for:
- College freshmen
- Students living off campus
- Commuter students
- Graduate students
- Student veterans
- Parents sending their children to college
- Anyone who wants additional legal carry options throughout Texas
Campus Carry Is About Responsibility
Carrying a firearm is a serious responsibility.
The purpose of obtaining an LTC isn’t simply to carry a handgun—it’s to understand:
- When you can legally carry
- Where you cannot carry
- How to safely store your firearm
- How to avoid legal mistakes
- When the use of force may or may not be justified
Responsible, educated gun owners help keep themselves and those around them safer.
Get Your Texas LTC Before Classes Begin
If you’re preparing for the upcoming semester, now is the perfect time to complete your Texas License to Carry course.
At RAW Arms Texas, we make the process simple with:
- ✔ Texas DPS-approved Online LTC Course
- ✔ Learn at your own pace
- ✔ Mobile and computer friendly
- ✔ Veteran-owned Texas business
- ✔ Fast, convenient, and affordable
👉 Learn more about our Texas Online LTC Class.
Need to complete your shooting proficiency after the online course? RAW Arms Texas can help with that too just contact us.
Get your LTC to be protected and understand the law
College is full of new experiences and responsibilities. If you choose to carry a handgun, make sure you’re doing it legally, safely, and confidently.
A Texas License to Carry provides more than just legal authority—it provides the education needed to be a responsible armed citizen.
Before you step onto campus, know the law, know your school’s policies, and carry responsibly.
Have questions? Visit RAWArmsTx.com to learn more about our Texas License to Carry training and additional firearms education courses.
Train First…Shoot Second
👉Military personnel learn more about using their military shooting qualification for Texas LTC.
By clicking “Enroll Now” 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.
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