Back to All Articles

How to Obtain a License to Carry in Dallas, Texas in December 2024

David Harrison  ·  Updated on August 8, 2024

Do you want to know how to obtain a License to Carry in Dallas, Texas? Whether you are a Texas resident or a visitor, it is important to familiarize yourself with the laws surrounding gun ownership in Texas. In this article, we will discuss the process of obtaining a License to Carry (LTC) in Dallas, Texas. We will cover the eligibility requirements, application process, fees, and other important details.

 

What are the main steps to get a license to carry in Dallas, TX and surrounding areas?

  1. Determine Your Eligibility
  2. Complete the online portion of the TX LTC Course
  3. Complete the shooting proficiency exam in the Dallas or Texas area
  4. Complete the LTC application

 

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Before you can begin the process of obtaining a License to Carry (LTC) in Dallas, Texas, you must first determine your eligibility. To be eligible for a Dallas LTC, you must be at least 18 years old, a Texas resident, able to legally purchase a handgun, not legally prohibited from possessing a firearm, and have passed the State of Texas′ License to Carry course.

A quick note about the license to carry before we get too far. A license to carry was formerly known as a concealed handgun license before Texas changed the laws to allow for open carry. So of you see us referring to a license to carry, remember that, it is now called a license to carry and was previously called a concealed handgun license and they are basically the exact same thing. Its just an updated name because you can now carry concealed or openly in Texas, including Dallas. Ok, back to the how to guide :)

 

Step 2: Complete The Online Portion of the Texas License to Carry Course in the Dallas Texas and surrounding area.

You will need to complete a state of Texas DPS approved online course like ours which is 4 hours long before you can proceed to apply for your LTC. This is done with a DPS certified course provider and instructor from the comfort of your home or place of your choosing. The course is broken into 4 modules and can be done from your computer, tablet, or mobile device. You can also switch between devices during the course if needed. Your progress is tracked and the course is self paced, so you can come and go as you need. Think of this as your LTC training academy where you will learn everything you need to know to carry legally and safely. You can do this with us at TexasCarryCourse.com. You can start the course anytime and finish at your own pace.

The four modules of the online course are:

1. Legal Aspects of Licensing

2. Handgun Use and Safety

3. Non-Violent Dispute Resolution

4. Responsible Firearms Storage

We've broken these 4 modules into 24 different sections to make the course easily digestible. Each of the sections of the online course contains a video roughly 5-15 minutes in length. This makes it easy for you to come and go after each short video if needed. We also include a personalized checklist that will cover everything you need to know to be successful throughout the course.

Following the 4 modules of the online LTC course listed above you will need to pass a 25 question multiple choice exam. You get 3 attempts to pass the exam. However we've never had a student not pass the exam within their 3 attempts. 99% of our students pass the exam their first try.

We have had over 35,000+ successful students over the last 6 years and have the best course according to the DPS employee that reviewed our course for accreditation. That being said we are a completely certified DPS approved online course provider, that has taken and continues to take all the necessary steps to stay licensed and on top of all things license to carry. You can get started with our course as soon as you'd like at https://texascarrycourse.com

 

Step 3: Complete the Shooting Proficiency Exam with a Local Dallas Ft Worth Texas Area Instructor

The shooting proficiency portion of the Texas License to Carry course includes a live fire component which must be completed at a local shooting range with a certified instructor. You must shoot from 3, 7 and 15 yards and engage a stationary target with a handgun. You will receive a score of 0-5 points for each shot fired at the target. You must receive a total score of 175 points out of a possible 225 points in order to pass the course. You must also demonstrate safe gun handling and safe gun storage. During the shooting proficiency portion of the Texas License to Carry course, you will fire 50 rounds of ammunition.

Upon successful completion of the course with us at TexasCarryCourse.com, we will be happy to refer you to a local instructor in the Dallas Ft Worth area. We have roughly 140 different instructors all over the area that can help you with the shooting/live fire exam portion of the course.

 

License to carry course in dallas texasImage Description: Image of a concealed handgun application

Step 4: Complete the LTC Application

Once you have determined you are eligible for a Dallas LTC, the next step is to complete the application form. The application is completed on the DPS website. After submitting your application the DPS will provide you with instructions for getting your fingerprints taken so they can complete you background check

Pay the Fees

The fees associated with obtaining a License to Carry in Dallas, Texas, vary depending on where you apply. Generally, the fees are around $40 for a new license and $25 for a renewal.

Get Fingerprinted with IdentoGo

The fingerprinting process for obtaining a License to Carry in Dallas, Texas is done through IdentoGo. First, you will need to create an account on the IdentoGo website and then choose a service code from the list of services provided by the DPS. Once you have chosen a service code, you will be prompted to schedule an appointment at your local IdentoGo location.

Submit the Application

Once you have completed the application and paid the fees, you can submit your application using the online submission.

Wait for Approval

After you have submitted your online LTC application, you will need to wait for your application to be approved. The processing time for a Dallas LTC can take anywhere from 2-8 weeks. Once your application is approved, you will receive your license in the mail.

Now that you know the steps to obtain a License to Carry in Dallas, Texas, you can begin the process. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the laws surrounding gun ownership in Texas and take the necessary steps to responsibly and safely own a firearm.

You can check the status of you application by calling the DPS and connecting with the Handgun Licensing Department.

That wraps up the process of how to get your license to carry. You can always email us or reach out to us by phone or using the live chat in the bottom right hand corner if you have any questions regarding getting your license to carry in the Dallas Texas or surrounding areas like Plano, Rockwall, Ft Worth, etc. We look forward to hosting you in our online license to carry class soon! Remember that you can start the class at anytime as its self paced and we will be there for you if you need any help with anything at all. You can sign up and get started on getting your license to carry today at https://texascarrycourse.com

 

What are some places I will and will not be able to carry a firearm with a valid license to carry?

License to carry course dallas texas

Image Description: Can you carry a handgun in deep ellum with a license to carry? 

In Dallas, Texas, you are prohibited from carrying a firearm in certain places, such as schools, hospitals, court facilities, places of worship, and government buildings. Other notable places where firearms are prohibited include sporting events, airports, bars, and areas where governmental meetings are taking place.

When it comes to famous monuments, you are not allowed to carry a firearm to the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum or the Dallas World Aquarium. There are also restrictions on carrying firearms in certain state parks, so be sure to check the specific regulations for each park before attempting to carry a firearm in one.

Finally, it’s important to note that carrying a firearm in Texas state parks requires a valid License to Carry (LTC). If you have an LTC, you must also adhere to the specific regulations regarding firearms in that state park to avoid any legal penalties.

 

Will a license to carry in Dallas Texas let you carry in the local sports arenas and stadiums?

In Dallas, Texas, firearms, concealed or open, are prohibited in all sports stadiums, including AT&T Stadium, Globe Life Park, and American Airlines Center. It is also illegal to carry a firearm on the grounds of any collegiate sporting event, regardless of the stadium.

 

What hospitals in Dallas Texas Can I carry a firearm in with a License to Carry (LTC) or concealed handgun license (CHL)?

In Dallas, Texas, it is illegal to carry a firearm in any hospital. This means that you cannot carry a firearm in any hospital with a valid License to Carry (LTC) or Concealed Handgun License (CHL), regardless of the hospital. This also applies to emergency rooms, doctor's offices, and other medical facilities. You should contact your local law enforcement authorities to confirm the specific regulations in your area.

 

What amusement parks in Dallas Texas can I carry a firearm in with a license to carry (LTC)?

It is illegal to carry a firearm at any amusement park in Dallas, Texas, regardless of whether you have a valid License to Carry a Handgun (LTC) or a Concealed Handgun License (CHL). Even if you have a valid license, it is still illegal to carry a firearm at amusement parks such as Six Flags Over Texas, SeaWorld Adventure Park, and Legoland Discovery Center. For more information, please contact your local law enforcement authorities.

 

Ok, so it seems like there are quite a few places I can't carry a firearm in Dallas, TX. What are some of the famous monuments or tourist attractions I can legally carry my firearm at?

In Dallas, Texas, you are allowed to carry a firearm at some of the city's most famous monuments and tourist attractions. Depending on the specific regulations, you may be able to carry a firearm at the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, the Dallas Museum of Art, the Dallas Arboretum, and the Reunion Tower. Additionally, you may be able to carry a firearm in some state parks, such as Cedar Hill State Park and Dinosaur Valley State Park, as long as you follow the applicable regulations. However, it is important to note that laws can change and vary from location to location, so it is always important to check with your local law enforcement authorities before attempting to carry a firearm in any location.

Here are some general frequently asked questions when it comes to getting your license to carry (also known as a concealed handgun license) in the Dallas Ft Worth Texas area.

Are there any training requirements to obtain a license to carry in Dallas, Texas?

There are certain requirements to obtain a license to carry a handgun in Dallas, Texas. All applicants must be 18 years of age or older, must be qualified to purchase a handgun according to state and federal laws, must not have been convicted of a felony, must not be a fugitive from justice, must not be chemically dependent, and must not have been found by a court to be mentally defective. Additionally, applicants must complete a four- to six-hour training course which covers topics such as the laws that pertain to weapons and the use of deadly force, safe handling and storage of handguns, and non-violent dispute resolution. Once the training is complete, applicants must pass a written examination. Upon successful completion of the written exam and the training course, applicants must submit their application to the Texas DPS.

 

What are the fees associated with obtaining a license to carry in Dallas, Texas?

If you're looking to obtain a license to carry in Dallas, Texas, there are several fees associated with the process. The state of Texas requires a $40 application processing fee. You'll also need to pay a fingerprinting fee, which generally runs around $10. Finally, you'll need to pay an additional fee to the handgun proficiency course, which ranges from $25 to $50. All in all, the total cost of obtaining a license to carry in Dallas, Texas is approximately $140.

The online portion of the course will run you $45 and the shooting portion will run you about $40. If you are doing the online portion with multiple friends your family members you can take advantage of our group discounts to pay as little as $25 per additional student.

 

What is the minimum age to apply for a license to carry in Dallas, Texas?

The legal minimum age to apply for a license to carry in Dallas, Texas is 18. To obtain a license, you must submit an application to the Texas Department of Public Safety. You must also meet certain other criteria, such as being a resident of Texas and having a valid form of identification. Additionally, you must pass a background check and complete a training course. Once all the requirements have been met, you may be granted a license to carry in Dallas, Texas.

 

What type of firearms can I carry with a license to carry in Dallas, Texas?

If you have a license to carry in Dallas, Texas, you can carry any type of handgun including revolvers, semi-automatic pistols, and single-shot pistols. Additionally, you can carry long guns, such as rifles and shotguns, as long as they are not prohibited by state or federal law. It is important to always check the laws in your state before carrying a firearm.

 

How long is a license to carry valid for in Dallas, Texas?

In the state of Texas, a license to carry (LTC) is valid for five years from the date of issuance. To renew your LTC, you must submit a renewal application to the Texas Department of Public Safety at least 45 days before the expiration date. In the city of Dallas, you must also renew your license in person at any Dallas Police Department-designated location. Additionally, you must pay a fee of $40 for an LTC renewal.

 

Is it legal to open carry with a license to carry in Dallas, Texas?

Yes, it is legal to open carry with a license to carry in Dallas, Texas. According to the Texas State Law, individuals who possess a valid license to carry may openly carry a handgun in public places, with a few exceptions. In Dallas, it is illegal to carry a handgun in certain places such as courts, schools, government buildings, and certain private properties. It is also illegal to carry a handgun while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It is important to be aware of all the restrictions and laws surrounding open carry in Dallas, Texas.

 

Does a license to carry in Dallas, Texas allow me to carry in other states?

Yes, having a license to carry in Dallas, Texas does not allow you to carry in other states. Each state has different laws regarding gun possession and carrying, so you must make sure to research the laws for each individual state before carrying. Additionally, some states may require additional permits or licenses, so it is important to check your local laws and regulations first. But generally speaking a Texas LTC has reciprocity with 30+ other states. Always check the Texas DPS website for the latest Texas reciprocity list. You can also check out our reciprocity list on our homepage at https://texascarrycourse.com

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, obtaining a license to carry in Dallas, Texas requires completing a few steps. First, you must meet the minimum requirements set by the State which include being 21 years old, passing a shooting proficiency test, completing the application process, and paying a fee. Additionally, you must renew your LTC in person at a Dallas Police Department-designated location at least 45 days before the expiration date. Open carry with a license to carry is legal in Dallas, Texas, but you must follow certain restrictions and laws. Finally, remember that a Texas LTC does not allow you to carry in other states, and you must check the laws for each individual state before carrying.

We look forward to seeing you in our online Texas license to carry course. You can get started today at https://texascarrycourse.com

Last updated July 2023

About the Author

Written by David Harrison

David Harrison is an avid firearms enthusiast who has been in and around the industry since he was young. He has worked for multiple firearms companies and brings a wealth of knowledge to the Texas Carry Course Team. During his time off you can find him at the firing range, or at the local baseball field coaching little league.

Recommended Articles

Texas CHL Renewal Process in December 2024

Read More 

Open Carry in Texas: Everything You Need to Know to Get Your LTC in December 2024

Read More 

A Detailed Look at the Texas LTC Shooting Proficiency Exam December 2024

Read More 

Step by Step Texas License to Carry Application Guide December 2024

Read More 

How to get a Texas Handgun License in December 2024

Read More 

How to Obtain Your Texas LTC Online in December 2024

Read More 

Steps to get your Texas
LTC · License to Carry

Formerly known as a CHL · Concealed Handgun License

Steps to get your Texas LTC · License to Carry

Formerly known as a CHL · Concealed Handgun License