If you are getting your Texas License to Carry, one of the most common questions is: “How far do I have to shoot for the Texas LTC test?”
The Texas LTC shooting test is usually fired at three distances:
- 3 yards
- 7 yards
- 15 yards
That may sound intimidating if you are new to handguns, but the test is very doable with basic practice. The Texas LTC range qualification is not a competition. It is a handgun proficiency demonstration designed to show that you can safely handle a handgun and hit the target at practical defensive distances.
If you start your LTC process with MyLTCTexas, you can complete the online classroom portion first, then schedule your in-person range instruction and shooting test with a Texas Qualified LTC Instructor.
Texas LTC Shooting Test Distance Breakdown
The standard Texas LTC shooting qualification is commonly structured around 50 total rounds fired at 3, 7, and 15 yards.
A typical breakdown is:
- 20 rounds at 3 yards
- 20 rounds at 7 yards
- 10 rounds at 15 yards
Most of the shooting happens at the closer distances. That is helpful for beginners because 3 yards and 7 yards are manageable with proper grip, sight alignment, and trigger control.
The 15-yard portion is farther, but it is only part of the test. You do not need to be perfect. You need to stay safe, follow commands, and meet the required passing score.
Is 15 Yards Hard for the Texas LTC Test?
For many new shooters, 15 yards feels like the hardest part. That is normal.
At 3 yards, small mistakes may still land on target. At 15 yards, those same mistakes become more noticeable. If your grip is loose, your trigger pull is rough, or your sights move as you press the trigger, the shot may drift.
The best way to prepare is to practice slowly. Do not rush your shots. Focus on:
- A firm two-handed grip
- Front sight or optic alignment
- Smooth trigger press
- Controlled breathing
- Following through after each shot
- Listening carefully to the instructor’s commands
The Texas LTC shooting test is not about being fast. It is about being safe and accurate enough to qualify.
Do You Shoot From a Holster?
Most Texas LTC students do not need to draw from a holster during the basic LTC shooting qualification. Your instructor will explain the exact procedure before the test begins.
However, Texas LTC classroom training includes handgun safety topics, and DPS notes that training includes use of restraint holsters and methods for secure open carry. So while the qualification itself is usually simple and controlled, you should still understand safe carry and safe handling.
If you are unsure, ask your instructor before range day.
How Many Rounds Do You Need?
Plan on needing at least 50 rounds for the actual Texas LTC shooting test. It is smart to bring extra ammunition in case the instructor allows warm-up shots, you need to reshoot a string, or there is a malfunction.
Before your appointment, ask your instructor:
- How many rounds to bring
- What caliber is allowed
- Whether ammunition is provided
- Whether you can use your own handgun
- Whether rentals are available
- What range fees are included
DPS says some instructors may require students to use their own handgun, while others may provide the handgun and/or ammunition. Always confirm before you show up.
What Score Do You Need to Pass?
The Texas LTC shooting qualification is commonly scored on a 250-point scale, with 175 points needed to pass. That means you do not have to shoot a perfect score.
This is important for nervous beginners: you can miss some points and still pass.
The biggest thing is safety. If you are unsafe with the firearm, ignore commands, point the muzzle in an unsafe direction, or mishandle the handgun, that can become a serious problem even if your target score is good.
Accuracy matters, but safety comes first.
Can You Practice the Texas LTC Distances Before the Test?
Yes, and you should if you are nervous.
When practicing, set your target at:
- 3 yards first
- Then 7 yards
- Then 15 yards
Start slow. Do not try to shoot fast. A clean, controlled shot is better than rushing and missing.
A simple practice plan:
- Shoot 10 rounds at 3 yards.
- Shoot 10 rounds at 7 yards.
- Shoot 10 rounds at 15 yards.
- Check your target.
- Repeat the distance where you struggled most.
If your shots are low and left, that is often caused by tightening your hand or jerking the trigger. If your group is spread all over the target, slow down and focus on grip and sight picture.
Do You Have to Take the Range Test If You Take the LTC Class Online?
Yes. The online class covers the classroom portion only.
Texas DPS says an applicant may receive online LTC training through an approved online course provider, but after passing the online classroom portion, the applicant must complete 1 to 2 hours of range instruction and demonstrate handgun proficiency with a Texas Qualified LTC Instructor.
That is where MyLTCTexas fits perfectly. You can complete the classroom portion online from home, then handle the range portion separately with a qualified instructor.
This makes the process easier for students in Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, Fort Worth, El Paso, Corpus Christi, Lubbock, McAllen, Waco, Killeen, Amarillo, and other Texas cities.
What Form Do You Need After Passing?
After you complete the required training and shooting qualification, your training is documented on the LTC-104 Form.
DPS instructor updates state that the older LTC-100 and LTC-101 forms were discontinued and replaced by the LTC-104 effective April 14, 2025. So if you are applying now, the form to know is the Texas LTC-104 Form.
The LTC-104 documents your online/classroom training and your handgun proficiency demonstration. DPS instructions say the handgun proficiency portion can only be completed by a certified LTC Handgun Instructor for students who successfully pass the required course of fire.
Best Way to Prepare for the Texas LTC Shooting Test
The best way to prepare is to keep it simple.
Take the online class with MyLTCTexas so you understand the classroom material first. Then practice basic handgun safety and shooting fundamentals before your range appointment.
Before test day, make sure you know:
- How your handgun operates
- How to load and unload safely
- How to clear a basic malfunction
- How to follow range commands
- How to shoot at 3, 7, and 15 yards
- What equipment your instructor requires
- How your LTC-104 Form will be completed
If you are searching for the best online Texas LTC class or best LTC class in Texas, MyLTCTexas is a strong choice because it helps you start the process clearly, conveniently, and from home.
Final Answer: How Far Is the Texas LTC Shooting Test?
The Texas LTC shooting test is typically fired at 3 yards, 7 yards, and 15 yards. Most students fire 50 rounds total, with the majority of shots at 3 and 7 yards.
If you practice those distances, listen to your instructor, and focus on safety, the test is very passable.
Start your online LTC class with MyLTCTexas, complete your range qualification with a Texas Qualified LTC Instructor, and make sure your current LTC-104 Form is completed before submitting your documents to DPS.
