How Much for a Gun License in Texas?
The Lone Star State has a rich history of gun ownership and the right to bear arms is deeply ingrained in the culture. As a result, the process of obtaining a gun license in Texas is relatively straightforward and affordable. In this article, we will explore the costs associated with obtaining a gun license in Texas, including the fees, requirements, and timeline.
How Much for a Gun License in Texas?
The cost of a gun license in Texas depends on the type of license you are applying for. There are two main types of gun licenses in Texas: the License to Carry (LTC) and the Concealed Handgun License (CHL). The fees for each type of license are as follows:
- License to Carry (LTC): The fee for a License to Carry (LTC) is $40 for a new applicant and $25 for a renewal. The LTC allows you to carry a handgun openly or concealed.
- Concealed Handgun License (CHL): The fee for a Concealed Handgun License (CHL) is $40 for a new applicant and $25 for a renewal. The CHL allows you to carry a handgun concealed.
Additional Fees
In addition to the license fee, there may be additional costs associated with obtaining a gun license in Texas. These costs include:
- Background Check: The background check fee is $10.
- Fingerprinting: The fingerprinting fee is $10.
- Class: If you need to take a class to meet the training requirements, the cost of the class will vary depending on the provider. Typically, the cost ranges from $50 to $100.
Requirements
To obtain a gun license in Texas, you must meet the following requirements:
- Age: You must be at least 21 years old (18 years old for military personnel and honorably discharged veterans).
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or a legal permanent resident.
- Residency: You must have been a resident of Texas for at least six months.
- Background: You must have a clean criminal record and not have any outstanding warrants.
- Training: You must complete a training course that is approved by the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Timeline
The timeline for obtaining a gun license in Texas is as follows:
- Application Submission: You can submit your application online or by mail. The application process typically takes 2-3 weeks.
- Background Check: The background check process typically takes 2-4 weeks.
- Fingerprinting: The fingerprinting process typically takes 1-2 weeks.
- Class: The training class typically takes 4-8 hours, depending on the provider.
Table: Gun License Fees in Texas
| License Type | New Applicant Fee | Renewal Fee |
|---|---|---|
| License to Carry (LTC) | $40 | $25 |
| Concealed Handgun License (CHL) | $40 | $25 |
Conclusion
Obtaining a gun license in Texas is a relatively affordable and straightforward process. By understanding the fees, requirements, and timeline, you can make an informed decision about whether or not to apply for a gun license in the Lone Star State. Remember to also budget for any additional costs associated with the application process, such as background checks and fingerprinting.
