As is the case with a driver’s license or state ID card, a license to carry has an expiration date. As for how long it’s good for in Texas, the answer varies slightly based on whether it’s your first LTC or one you’re planning to renew. Below, the firearms education pros from Online Texas LTC, your premier choice if you’re looking to take a Texas CHL class, go over what you need to know about how long LTCs remain valid in Texas. We also highlight some reasons it’s good to keep your license to carry current and valid.
First-Time LTCs in Texas (4 Years)
If you’re getting your license to carry for the first time in Texas, it’s good for four years. Specifically, the LTC expires on the first birthday after the four-year period is up after you get your initial license. For this reason, you may have several extra months beyond the actual four-year expiration date to renew your LTC to keep it valid. The initial license life span applies to both residents and nonresidents of Texas preferring to obtain an LTC for this state.
Renewal Licenses (5 Years)
Renewal LTCs in Texas are valid for five years, which is a convenient way to keep track of when to renew your license. In 2013, Texas eliminated the need for additional class and range time for LTC renewals. The same birthday stipulation mentioned above applies to renewal licenses in terms of their expiration dates.
Renewing after Your LTC Has Expired
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), you’re not able to renew a license to carry after 12 months beyond its expiration date. If you wait for longer than a year after your LTC expires, the system won’t accept your renewal. You’ll then have to apply for your Texas LTC all over again as if you’re getting a first-time license—which would mean the initial LTC four-year license period applies.
Renewing your LTC in Texas can be done in one of two ways:
• Online – Visit the State of Texas website’s LTC page and complete the renewal process online.
• By mail – Download the PDF version of the renewal application from Texas.gov, fill it out, print it, and mail it to the listed address.
You also have the option of renewing your Texas LTC before it actually expires. You can do this up to six months before your license to carry expires.
Reasons to Keep Your LTC Valid in Texas
Even though a license to carry is no longer officially required for handguns in Texas, it’s still beneficial to keep your LTC valid. Doing so makes it easier—and legal—to travel with your handgun to states that recognize Texas-issued LTCs. There may also be situations when it’s easier to carry without any potential incidents if you have your LTC with you. Keeping your LTC valid in Texas also eliminates the need to go through the complete licensing process and meet the entire list of requirements all over again.
If you need to complete the necessary course to get your LTC, make sure to choose a premier training provider. Online Texas LTC is committed to offering the best firearms training possible. When they need information on firearms safety or they want to take a high-quality LTC class, 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 512-675-2206.
