Being a state that allows open carry and constitutional carry without a license makes Texas one of the most gun-friendly states in America. As for whether or not you can have an unregistered gun in Texas, no statutes are currently on the books that prohibit or require firearms in the Lone Star State to be registered. Still, there are some basic guidelines, requirements, and limitations to keep in mind with regard to guns in Texas. Here’s what you need to know, brought to you by the firearms education professionals from Online Texas LTC, the experts who provide the highest-quality Texas LTC online course you can find.
Federal Law Requires the Registration of Certain Firearms, Devices, or Accessories
According to the Texas State Law Library, Texas has no official gun registry. Even so, the National Firearms Act requires that some types of firearms, devices, and gun-related accessories be registered regardless of location or state. This list includes:
• Short-barreled shotguns
• Machine guns
• Silencers
• Destructive devices
Therefore, if you have any type of firearm, related accessory, or device on this list, it must be registered with federal authorities. Otherwise, you’re fine.
Your Firearm Must Be Legal to Possess
Any gun you possess, carry, and/or use in Texas must be one that’s legal to own, whether it’s registered or not. The only type of firearm federal laws say you cannot legally own in any state is an automatic weapon that was manufactured after 1986. In Texas, firearms and accessories you cannot legally possess without NFA registration include:
• Armor-piercing rounds
• Machine guns
• Zip guns
• Short-barreled rifles
Be Aware of Other States’ Registration Requirements when Traveling
Even though you can legally have an unregistered gun in Texas, this isn’t the case in all states. Currently, seven states plus the District of Columbia have firearms registration requirements. To avoid potential legal issues, it’s important to check the gun laws of any state where you’ll be traveling with a firearm. Also, airlines have specific guidelines about traveling with firearms, and you’ll need to be mindful of these rules when traveling on a plane with a firearm.
Always Be a Responsible Gun Owner
With any gun you own, use, or carry in Texas, you’ll need to be responsible with your firearm. This is especially true when carrying in public. For instance, a handgun has to be properly placed in a holster when carried in an open manner. Also, you cannot be intoxicated while carrying your firearm, nor can you display it carelessly or recklessly.
It’s essential for gun owners to be thoroughly familiar with basic gun safety practices and the laws that govern firearms in their jurisdictions. If you have questions about firearms safety or the local gun laws in your area, reach out to knowledgeable professionals for guidance. When they need information on firearms safety, training, or LTC 101 online classes, gun owners trust the expertise of the pros from Online Texas LTC. If you have questions about any aspect of gun ownership in Texas, give us a call today at 512-675-2124.
