For educational reference only. Laws change frequently. Always verify current requirements with Texas's official issuing authority before carrying a firearm. This is not legal advice.
Permitless (Constitutional) Carry State
Texas allows eligible residents to carry a concealed firearm without a permit. A voluntary permit is still available and provides reciprocity benefits in other states. Effective September 1, 2021 (HB 1927). Must be 21+, legally eligible to possess firearm, not prohibited by state or federal law.
CCW Permit Guide
Texas Concealed Carry Permit 2026
Texas concealed carry requirements: permit fees, training hours, reciprocity states, prohibited locations, and official application information.
Texas enacted constitutional carry in 2021 (HB 1927). Eligible residents 21+ may carry a handgun without a License to Carry (LTC). The LTC is still available and provides reciprocity benefits in 37+ states.
Permitless Carry
Shall-Issue State
Non-Resident Permits Available
Open Carry Allowed
2026 CCW Quick Facts
Reference 2026
Resident Fee
$40
Optional permit
Validity
5yr
Renewal required after expiration
Training
6 Hours
Classroom instruction (4–6 hours) + live fire proficiency test required for LTC
Processing
60
typical processing time
Permit Details
Texas CCW Permit Requirements
Official requirements for obtaining a Texas concealed carry permit or weapon license.
Issuing Authority
Texas Department of Public Safety (LTC Program)
— Official Site
Permitless Carry
Constitutional Carry — eligible residents may carry without a permit
Effective September 1, 2021 (HB 1927). Must be 21+, legally eligible to possess firearm, not prohibited by state or federal law.
Issue Standard
Shall Issue — the issuing authority must issue a permit to any qualified applicant who meets the requirements
Open Carry
Allowed
— no permit required for open carry
Resident Fee
$40.00
Non-Resident Fee
$40.00
Permit Valid
5 years from issuance date — renewal required
Minimum Age
21 years old (resident permit)
Background Check
Required — FBI NICS background check required for permit application
Processing Time
60
Duty to Inform
No Requirement — no legal duty to proactively disclose, though voluntary disclosure is generally recommended
Training Requirements
Texas CCW Training Requirements
Training Required
Texas requires completion of an approved firearms training course before a permit will be issued.
Minimum training time: 6 hours. Approved training types: Classroom instruction (4–6 hours) + live fire proficiency test required for LTC.
Reciprocity
States Whose Permits Texas Honors
Texas recognizes concealed carry permits from the following states (34 states):
Verify current status before traveling. Each state's carry laws still apply.
Prohibited Locations
Where You Cannot Carry in Texas
Schools and school premises, polling places, courts, secured airport areas, bars and restaurants where 51%+ of income from alcohol (51% sign posted), racetracks, hospitals (unless permitted), amusement parks, places of worship (unless permitted by church), government meeting rooms open to public, correctional facilities
Note: Federal law also prohibits carry in federal facilities, federal courthouses, and other locations regardless of state law. Always check both state and federal restrictions.
Important Notes
Texas-Specific CCW Information
Texas LTC fee reduced to $40 (from $140) effective 2021. Law enforcement officers may request to see ID, but there is no duty to proactively disclose. Constitutional carry does not apply on private property that posts 30.06/30.07 signs prohibiting carry.
Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Concealed carry laws in Texas are subject to change through legislation and court decisions. Always verify current requirements with Texas Department of Public Safety (LTC Program) or a qualified firearms attorney before carrying a firearm.