Getting a license to carry a handgun in Texas, known as the License to Carry (LTC), involves several costs. This article outlines current fees, training costs, and renewal considerations to help applicants budget accurately. Costs can vary by county for fingerprinting and by training provider, so it is important to confirm details with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and authorized instructors.
Overview Of The Texas LTC And Its Fees
The Texas LTC allows qualified individuals to carry a concealed handgun in many situations and locations where firearm possession is permitted by law. The total cost to obtain an LTC generally includes an application fee, fingerprinting/Background check, mandatory training, and potentially additional administrative or local fees. While the core fees are set by state regulations, some ancillary costs may vary by county and service providers.
What Fees Are Usually Included
The primary components typically involved in an LTC application are:
- Initial Application Fee: This is the central charge for processing a new LTC application. In practice, applicants should expect a base amount around forty dollars.
- Fingerprinting And Background Check: Texas requires fingerprint-based background checks, often conducted through certified service providers. The cost for fingerprinting can range from about ten to twenty dollars, depending on the provider and location.
- Training Costs: State law requires a minimum level of safety and proficiency training. The price for approved courses varies by provider and format (in-person, online, or hybrid). Typical ranges may be fifteen to two hundred dollars.
In total, a first-time LTC applicant should budget for the base application fee, fingerprinting, and training. Actual out-of-pocket costs may be higher if the applicant chooses premium training options or encounters extra administrative steps.
Training Costs And Requirements
Texas requires completion of a recognized handgun safety course before licensure. The training focuses on safe handling, storage, use of force, and pertinent state laws. Costs depend on the instructor, curriculum, and delivery method. Typical training price ranges are:
- Basic Handgun Safety Course: $40–$100
- Concealed Carry Preparation Course: $75–$250
- Comprehensive LTC Courses: $100–$300
Some providers offer bundled packages that include application guidance, fingerprints, and state-required testing, which can provide savings. When selecting a course, verify that the program is approved by the Texas DPS for LTC eligibility.
Where To Apply And How To Submit
Applications for the Texas LTC are submitted through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). The process typically includes:
- Completing the online application or submitting a paper application to DPS
- Scheduling and paying for fingerprinting through an approved service provider
- Providing proof of completing the required training
- Clearing a background check and meeting all eligibility criteria
Applicants should budget time for processing, which can vary. The DPS site provides official guidance on acceptable documentation, processing times, and how to track an application status.
Renewal Costs And Considerations
Renewing an LTC generally mirrors the initial cost structure, though fees may differ slightly due to changes in state policy or updated fee schedules. Typical renewal steps include:
- Renewal Application Fee: Often around the same amount as the initial application, commonly near forty dollars.
- Updated Background Check Or Certification: Some renewals may require updated verification or ongoing compliance checks, which can incur small processing or footprint fees.
- Training Acknowledgment: Renewals may require updated training or proof of continuing education in some cases.
Brasher estimates suggest budgeting $40–$60 for renewal-related processing plus any ancillary costs for new fingerprints if required.
Additional Costs To Consider
Beyond the core LTC fees, applicants should anticipate incidental expenses:
- Classroom or Online Training Logistics: Travel, parking, or online platform fees
- Fingerprinting Variability: Some counties charge a separate administrative fee for fingerprinting services or credential verification
- License Duplication Or Card Replacement: If a card is lost or damaged, replacement fees may apply
- Attorney Or Consultation Fees: For applicants seeking legal guidance on eligibility or compliance, optional but prudent in complex cases
It is prudent to plan for a contingency budget of 10–20% for unexpected costs or delays in processing.
Budgeting A Quick Estimate
Based on typical fee ranges, a reasonable budget to obtain an LTC in Texas might be:
- Initial application: $40
- Fingerprinting: $10–$20
- Training: $75–$200
- Additional processing or administrative fees: $5–$20
Estimated total range: Approximately $130 to $280 for a first-time LTC, excluding optional extras or premium training. Renewal costs could be similar, with a potential slight decrease or increase depending on current DPS fee schedules.
Tips To Minimize Costs Without Compromising Compliance
- Shop for reputable, DPS-approved LTC courses offering bundled services that include application support and fingerprinting when possible.
- Compare fingerprinting providers for price and convenience, ensuring the provider is certified for DPS background checks.
- Confirm current fee amounts on the official Texas DPS website before scheduling or paying any fees.
- Keep all documentation organized to reduce processing delays which can incur additional administrative costs.
Understanding the components of each fee helps applicants avoid surprises and plan a realistic budget for obtaining and maintaining an LTC in Texas.