Frequently Asked Questions about CHL / LTC in Texas

If I was arrested for an offense but the charges were dismissed, will my application be rejected?

No. Dismissals are not grounds for denial, as long as you were not placed on probation or deferred adjudication prior to the dismissal.

Can I start carrying a concealed handgun as soon as I receive my license in the mail?

Yes, but you may not carry before you receive the license.

If my handgun is on the seat beside me, am I still considered to be "carrying?"

Yes. The statute refers to carrying a gun "on or about" your person. Texas courts generally have considered this to include any gun within your reach, including one stored in your glove compartment or even in a passenger's purse, if you can reach it without materially changing your position.

Can I carry a handgun without a license while driving or traveling in a motor vehicle?

Effective September 1, 2007, a person who can legally possess a firearm may possess or carry a handgun in a motor vehicle (including a recreational vehicle with living quarters) that is owned by or under the lawful control of the person. However, the firearm must be concealed, the person may not be engaged in criminal activity, and may not be a member of a "criminal street gang." The person may also carry the handgun to and from his vehicle without a license. See Texas Penal Code 46.02 (a). However, DPS recommends that you seek the advice of an attorney with any questions regarding the unlicensed carrying of weapons.

If I am not carrying my handgun, must I still carry my license?

Under the concealed handgun law, you are only required to have your license with you whenever you are carrying your handgun. However, many license holders choose to carry their license with them at all times.

What type of handgun will I be able to carry?

You may carry any type handgun you wish. If openly carried it must be in a holster

If licensed, can I carry more than one handgun at a time?

If you can conceal them. The law does not specify or limit the number of guns you may carry.

Once I submit my application, when should I expect to receive my license?

The department will make every effort to issue your license within 60 days or inform you that you did not meet the eligibility criteria. Once your application is complete, processing may take up to 180 days if your background check reveals potentially disqualifying events or information.

Can others find out if I am licensed to carry a concealed handgun?

Information about persons who are licensed to carry a concealed handgun is confidential and may not be disclosed to an individual. However, upon proper request by a criminal justice agency, DPS must disclose to the agency whether or not a named individual is licensed to carry a concealed handgun. Disclosable information includes the license holder's name, date of birth, gender, and zip code. DPS must notify the license holder about the request and provide himlher the name of the agency making the request.

If my license is revoked, when may I apply for a new license?

You may not apply until the reason of your revocation has not existed for two years. In other words, the revocation of a license brings with it at least two extra years on ineligibility.

Example 1: Your license is revoked on 08/15/2007 because you were subject to a protective order. The protective order expired on 10/15/2007. You may apply on 10/15/2009 if you meet all eligibility requirements.

Example 2: Your license is revoked on 08/15/2007 because you were convicted of a Class B misdemeanor on 04/01/2007. You may apply on 04/01/2014 if meet all eligibility requirements. The misde-meanor conviction itself makes you ineligible until 04/01/2012 (five years after date of conviction); the two extra years of ineligibility that result from the license's revocation make you ineligible until 04/01/2014.

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