What Do I Need to Get My Texas LTC?
If you are asking, “What do I need to get my Texas LTC?”, you are already asking the right question. Getting a Texas License to Carry, also called an LTC, is much easier when you know what to prepare before starting.
Texas allows permitless carry for many eligible adults, but many people still choose to get an LTC for training, reciprocity, and added confidence when carrying a handgun.
Here is a simple checklist of what you need to get your Texas LTC.
Texas LTC Checklist
To get your Texas LTC, you generally need:
- Legal eligibility to possess a handgun
- A valid ID
- Completed LTC training
- Handgun proficiency or range qualification
- An LTC-104 certificate
- Texas DPS online application
- Fingerprints
- Payment for applicable fees
- Any supporting documents requested by DPS
Each item plays a role in helping Texas DPS process your License to Carry application.
1. Legal Eligibility
Before anything else, you need to be legally eligible to get a Texas License to Carry.
This means you must be legally allowed to possess a handgun under state and federal law. Certain criminal convictions, pending charges, protective orders, family violence offenses, chemical dependency issues, and other legal matters may affect eligibility.
If you are unsure about your eligibility, review the official Texas DPS handgun licensing information before applying.
2. A Valid Driver License or ID
You will need identification when completing your Texas LTC application. Most applicants use a Texas driver license or Texas ID.
Your name, address, and personal information should be accurate and consistent across your ID, DPS application, and training documents. Mismatched information can slow down the process.
3. Texas LTC Training
You must complete the required Texas LTC training.
The classroom portion covers important topics such as:
- Texas handgun laws
- Use of force and deadly force
- Handgun safety
- Safe storage
- Non-violent dispute resolution
- Responsibilities of carrying a handgun
You can usually complete this training through an in-person LTC class or an approved online LTC course.
4. Range Qualification
In addition to classroom training, you must complete the handgun proficiency requirement.
This is often called the Texas LTC shooting test or LTC range qualification. During this portion, a qualified LTC instructor will observe your ability to safely handle and fire a handgun.
If you take the classroom part online, you still need to complete the range qualification in person.
5. Your LTC-104 Form
After completing the required training, you will receive a certificate of training.
- LTC-104
According to Texas.gov, applicants must submit supporting documents, including the Certificate of Training, such as the LTC-104, along with any documents listed in their receipt or email.
Keep this form safe. You will need to upload it to Texas DPS.
6. Texas DPS Online Application
You will need to complete the official Texas DPS License to Carry application online.
During the application, you may provide:
- Personal information
- Driver license or ID information
- Address history
- Background information
- Payment for applicable state fees
Be careful when entering your information. Small mistakes can delay your application.
7. Fingerprints
Texas LTC applicants are required to submit fingerprints as part of the application process.
Fingerprints are used for the required background check. After starting your application, you can schedule fingerprinting through the approved provider used by Texas DPS.
Do not wait too long to complete this step. Your application may not move forward until fingerprints are submitted.
8. Payment for Fees
You should be prepared to pay any required application, training, fingerprinting, or range fees.
Costs can vary depending on the class provider, fingerprinting provider, and your applicant category. Some applicants may qualify for reduced fees or special conditions, so check current DPS information before applying.
9. Supporting Documents If Needed
Some applicants may need to submit additional documents.
This can apply to people with:
- Military status
- Name changes
- Residency issues
- Criminal history
- Special conditions
- DPS document requests
If DPS asks for more information, submit it as soon as possible to avoid delays.
Do I Need to Take the Class Before Applying?
You may be able to start parts of the process before or after training, but your application will not be complete until DPS receives all required items.
For most people, the easiest order is:
- Take the LTC class
- Complete the range qualification
- Get the LTC-104
- Apply through DPS
- Schedule fingerprints
- Upload documents
This keeps the process organized and helps reduce confusion.
Common Things People Forget
Many Texas LTC delays happen because applicants miss one small step.
Common mistakes include:
- Forgetting to upload the LTC-104
- Not scheduling fingerprints
- Entering the wrong address
- Using information that does not match their ID
- Assuming the online class alone completes the full process
- Ignoring DPS emails or document requests
The best way to avoid delays is to complete every step and double-check your information.
Final Thoughts
So, what do you need to get your Texas LTC?
You need eligibility, training, range qualification, a training certificate, fingerprints, a DPS application, payment, and any required supporting documents.
Once you have those pieces in place, the Texas LTC process becomes much easier to manage.
Ready to get your Texas LTC?
