Complete the Texas License to Carry classroom portion online, at your own pace, from the comfort of your home. Our online classroom is 100% Texas compliant for online delivery of the LTC classroom portion.
Full course completion also requires in-person range instruction and a shooting qualification administered by a Texas DPS Certified LTC Instructor. You may complete this with any Texas DPS Certified LTC Instructor.
What the Online Classroom Covers
The online classroom helps you understand the legal, ethical, and practical responsibilities of carrying a handgun in Texas. Topics include:
- Firearm Safety:
- Basic firearm safety rules: treat every gun as if it is loaded, keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, and keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot, etc.
- Safe storage and handling of firearms.
- Texas Laws and Regulations:
- Texas laws related to weapons and the License to Carry.
- Use of Force and Self-Defense Laws
- Handgun Operation and Maintenance
- Familiarization with the types of firearms: Revolvers and semi-automatic handguns and how they operate.
- Cleaning, maintenance, and proper storage techniques.
- Concealed Carry Techniques:
- Methods for safely carrying a handgun, including holster choices and carry positions.
- Clothing options for concealment of the firearm.
- Judgment and De-escalation:
- When it is legally and morally appropriate to use a firearm in self-defense.
- Understanding the concept of proportionality in the use of force.
- Methods for avoiding conflicts and de-escalating tense situations.
- Interactive Quizzes and Assessments:
- Quizzes throughout the course check your understanding, and a passing score on the final exam is required to complete the classroom portion.
- Practical Shooting Requirements:
- Some states require an in-person shooting qualification, where you must demonstrate your ability to safely and accurately fire a handgun. This could be a separate part of the process and is not always available online.
Not a Texas Resident?
You don’t have to live in Texas to get a Texas License to Carry. Legal residents of other states may apply for a Texas LTC. The shooting portion must be completed in person with a Texas DPS Certified LTC Instructor. Non-resident applicants also submit additional documents to Texas DPS, including form LTC-6, two passport-style photos, and a copy of their out-of-state driver license or state-issued ID. See the Texas DPS Licensing & Registration page for current non-resident requirements.
States That Offer Online LTC Courses
Many states allow or even require an online component for the LTC process, but not all do. Some states, like Texas, allow online training, but also require an in-person practical shooting test. States like Florida and Utah allow online LTC training for residents and non-residents who wish to carry firearms across state lines.
However, states like California or New York have stricter gun control laws and may require more comprehensive in-person training and more rigorous background checks.
Steps to Complete Your Texas LTC
- Complete the online classroom. Watch the video lessons, complete the quizzes, and pass the final exam at your own pace. You’ll receive a classroom completion certificate to bring to your shooting qualification.
- Complete in-person range instruction and your shooting qualification. Full course completion requires in-person range instruction and a shooting qualification administered by a Texas DPS Certified LTC Instructor. You may complete this with any Texas DPS Certified LTC Instructor. Yasuke Arms qualification scheduling will be announced soon.
- Apply with Texas DPS. Submit your License to Carry application, supporting documents (including your training certificate), and fees to the Texas Department of Public Safety, then schedule your fingerprinting appointment.
- DPS review. DPS runs a background check and determines eligibility. For current requirements, fees, and timelines, visit the Texas DPS Handgun Licensing page.
- Wait for Approval: After your application and any required documentation are processed, you’ll typically receive your License to Carry by mail or in person.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Eligibility: Texas DPS sets and determines eligibility, including age and background requirements. Review the current requirements on the Texas DPS Handgun Licensing page before you apply.
- Age Requirements: You must meet the minimum age requirement to apply for a License to Carry, typically 21 years old in most states.
- Background check: Every application includes a background check by DPS.
- Reciprocity: Some states honor the Texas License to Carry. Always check Texas DPS reciprocity information and the laws of the state you plan to visit before carrying outside Texas.
Ready to Get Started?
Complete your classroom portion online today, then finish with in-person range instruction and your shooting qualification.
Train with purpose. Protect with honor.