Texas Gun Laws Explained: Open Carry, Concealed Carry & More

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information provided reflects federal and state firearm laws as of September 2025. Because gun laws frequently change and vary by jurisdiction, readers should consult official legal sources or a qualified attorney to verify the most current and applicable regulations before making any decisions related to firearms.

Key Takeaways: 

• Permitless Carry vs. License To Carry (LTC): Texas law allows permitless carry for residents 21 or older, but obtaining a License to Carry (LTC) provides additional legal protections and reciprocity with other states.
• Age & Eligibility Requirements: Understanding age requirements and who can legally carry firearms is crucial for responsible gun ownership in Texas, where there are different rules for handguns and long guns.
• Legal Protection Through Membership: USAGO ProShield members have access to comprehensive legal defense coverage for self-defense incidents, reinforcing peace of mind for gun owners in Texas.

Texas gun laws can be complex, especially when factoring in permitless carry, LTC benefits, and where firearms are prohibited. Knowing how the laws apply in real-life scenarios is essential, whether you’re new to carrying or fine-tuning your understanding. Staying legally sharp is non-negotiable, from eligibility and reciprocity to open carry restrictions.

At USAGO, we cut through the confusion and deliver straight answers to serious questions. From permitless carry to restricted locations, we break legal details into clear, actionable guidance. We gun owners with confidence and clarity while reflecting the values of personal responsibility, informed choice, and unwavering support for Second Amendment rights across the Lone Star State.

This blog will explore how Texas gun laws define who can carry, the differences between permitless carry and LTC, where firearms are prohibited, and how responsible gun owners can stay compliant and confident every day.

Who Can Carry In The Lone Star State

Carrying a firearm in Texas comes with both opportunity and responsibility. While the state strongly supports Second Amendment rights, it also enforces clear guidelines on who can legally carry a firearm, whether you’re walking downtown, heading to the range, or gearing up for a hunt. Understanding these rules protects your freedom. 

Age Requirements Based On Civilian & Military Status

To legally carry a handgun in public, open or concealed, you generally must be at least 21 years of age in Texas. This requirement applies under the state’s constitutional carry law, which permits most law-abiding adults 21 and older to carry handguns without a license. An important exception exists for active-duty military personnel. 

In Texas, the minimum age to purchase a handgun from a licensed dealer is 21. However, individuals who are 18 to 20 years old may only purchase a handgun if they first obtain a License to Carry (LTC). Active-duty military members 18 or older are also eligible to apply for an LTC. While a federal court ruling (Firearms Policy Coalition, Inc. v. McCraw) allows otherwise eligible adults in this age group to carry a handgun—openly or concealed—without a license, the ruling does not change the purchasing restriction. In short, 18–20 year olds can carry under the court ruling, but they cannot buy a handgun unless they hold a valid LTC.

Constitutional Carry & Prohibited Persons

Under Texas’s constitutional carry laws, a license isn’t required to carry a handgun publicly. But that doesn’t mean it’s a free pass. You must not be prohibited by law from possessing a firearm. Disqualifiers include felony convictions, certain recent misdemeanor offenses (such as assault causing bodily injury), current protective orders, confirmed chemical dependency, or adjudication of mental incompetence. Legal carry in Texas requires more than eligibility; it requires personal accountability. 

As of June 2025, the state passed legislation banning red‑flag laws, formally prohibiting courts from issuing ERPOs—extreme risk protection orders—for temporary firearm removal that is effective September 1, 2025. Also, Texas ended local gun buyback programs via legislation passed in 2025, restricting cities like Houston and San Antonio from offering paid exchanges—set to take effect in September

Special Considerations For Hunters & Sportsmen

Hunters and recreational shooters aren’t excluded from these protections. Texas allows open carry en route to or from legal hunting grounds, as long as all game and land use regulations are followed. Texas law offers more flexibility on private property or in your vehicle, reinforcing the state’s emphasis on personal liberty and landowner rights.

Why Background Checks Still Matter

Even with permitless carry, background checks remain part of the firearms purchasing. Whether you’re buying your first handgun or expanding your collection, transactions through licensed dealers still require federal screening. This ensures that responsible gun ownership begins at the point of sale, helping maintain public trust and safety. It’s also an ideal time to consider selecting the best personal protection handgun that fits your experience level, needs, and lifestyle, especially if you plan to carry daily.

Benefits Of Getting A License To Carry

If you want to carry in locations where permitless carry is not allowed, such as certain government buildings or school zones, applying for a License to Carry (LTC) provides additional legal advantages. The LTC process includes fingerprinting, a background check, and demonstrated shooting proficiency. It serves those who want broader access while reinforcing the expectation that every carrier is trained, lawful, and situationally aware.

Carrying In Texas Means Knowing Where You Stand

Carrying in Texas means aligning with a long-standing tradition of self-reliance and civic responsibility. The laws are straightforward, but the stakes are real. By understanding who qualifies, how carry laws apply in different settings, and why training and documentation matter, you make smarter decisions and stand ready to protect what matters, safely, lawfully, and with confidence.

Carrying With Purpose In Texas: Open & Concealed Carry Responsibilities

Whether you carry openly on a Texas back road or discreetly in a downtown crowd, your responsibility remains the same: know the law, carry with confidence, and lead with discipline. 

The points below break down what every responsible gun owner should keep in mind, because how you carry matters just as much as why you carry:

Why Responsible Carry Reflects More Than Just Rights

Freedom to carry, openly or concealed, comes with a responsibility to know the law, respect others, and act with integrity. Whether your firearm is visible or tucked discreetly under your clothing, how you carry in Texas speaks to your values, training, and commitment to lawful self-defense.

Open Carry Laws Every Gun Owner Should Know

Thanks to the 2021 Firearm Carry Act (House Bill 1927), open carry in Texas is legal for most residents 21 and older without a License to Carry (LTC). Open carry requires that the handgun be securely carried in a holster, though Texas law no longer specifies that it must be a belt or shoulder holster. But freedom comes with responsibility. 

Even without an LTC, carriers must meet eligibility standards, no felony convictions, recent disqualifying misdemeanors, protective orders, or other state or federal prohibitions. You must also avoid restricted areas, like schools, polling places, government buildings, and any private or open business that posts valid 30.06 (concealed carry) or 30.07 (open carry) signage. Observing these rules preserves the broader right to publicly carry by demonstrating accountability and respect for the law.

Legal Awareness & Holster Discipline Matter

Understanding the difference between concealed carry vs open carry is critical to staying within the law. Staying updated on use-of-force laws isn’t optional. De-escalation should always be a practiced mindset, not an afterthought. Carry only where permitted, and always respect posted signage. Violating these rules risks legal trouble and also undermines the trust that responsible gun owners work hard to build in their communities. A well-informed carrier understands the difference between presence and provocation.

Carry with clarity. USAGO gives you factory-direct savings, legal protection, and real-time guidance on gun laws in Texas, so you never guess when it matters most. Earn BulletBucks rewards, access exclusive training, and join a nationwide network of responsible gun owners who value freedom and accountability. 

Texas Hunting Carry Laws & Game Warden Encounters

Hunting in Texas is a time-honored right grounded in freedom, responsibility, and respect for the land. But knowing what you can legally carry, where, and how to handle enforcement interactions is essential to making your season safe and successful. 

Here are Texas Hunting Laws that every hunter should understand before stepping off the trail:

When Carrying Firearms In The Field Is Legal

During active hunting seasons, you can carry long guns and handguns on public or private land in Texas. However, open carry of a firearm is only legal when you’re actively hunting. Walking to or from your vehicle with a visible handgun, especially off-season, can raise legal issues. Handguns must be holstered when carried openly, regardless of whether you’re deep in your lease or out on a rural pasture.

What Bow Hunters & Federal Restrictions Require

If you’re bow hunting, carrying a firearm is generally allowed in Texas, unless you’re on a federally designated archery-only site. In those areas, firearm possession is prohibited during archery hunts. Always check local and federal guidelines before heading out to ensure compliance.

Rules For Carrying On ATVs & UTVs

When riding an ATV or UTV on your property, or with the landowner’s permission, you may carry a loaded firearm, including a chambered one. However, traveling to and from your hunt by vehicle follows standard state transport rules: firearms should be unloaded and stored correctly when not actively hunting.

What To Expect During A Game Warden Encounter

Game Wardens in Texas have broad authority in the field. They can stop you, inspect your equipment, verify your license, and check your firearms, all without a warrant or probable cause. This authority is legally supported to protect wildlife and enforce state hunting laws.

How To Handle Documentation & Communication

When approached by a Game Warden, having your hunting license, tags, and Hunter Education card readily available helps the interaction go smoothly. Show professionalism and preparedness, two qualities that set responsible hunters apart. Whether in the woods or on a public trail, these principles apply to important factors when conceal carrying, like staying calm, being organized, and ensuring all documentation is current and accessible.

USAGO ProShield™: Complete Protection for Responsible Gun Owners

Being prepared isn’t just about carrying a firearm – it’s about knowing you’ll be protected legally, financially, and personally if the unthinkable happens. That’s where USAGO ProShield™ comes in.

As a ProShield Member, you unlock comprehensive benefits designed to safeguard every part of your 2A lifestyle – and at the core of this protection is a self-defense legal plan powered by Firearms Legal Protection (FLP).

Here’s what your ProShield membership includes:

Self-Defense Legal Protection (Powered by FLP)

• 24/7 Emergency Attorney Hotline – Immediate access to experienced firearms attorneys, available around the clock.
• Criminal & Civil Defense Coverage – Full legal defense costs covered if you’re charged or sued after a lawful act of self-defense.
• Bail Bond & Retainer Fees – Financial coverage for bail and retainer fees, so you’re never stuck waiting or scrambling for cash.
• Coverage for All Legal Firearms – Whether it’s your handgun, shotgun, or rifle, you’re protected.
• Post-Incident Guidance – Step-by-step legal advice on how to handle law enforcement, investigators, and prosecutors.
• Expert Witnesses & Investigations – FLP provides the resources your defense needs, with no extra cost to you.

Additional ProShield Member Benefits

• ProShield isn’t just legal protection – it’s a total membership package:
• Guaranteed Lowest Prices on firearms, ammo, and gear at USAGO.org.
• BulletBucks™ Rewards Program – Earn cashback-style rewards on every purchase.
• Exclusive Giveaways & Member-Only Deals – Access to premium promotions you won’t find anywhere else.
• Training & Resources On-Demand – Stay sharp with expert-led firearms and self-defense training content.
• Private Member Community – Connect with like-minded gun owners across the country.

Long Guns: Rifles, Shotguns, & Tactical Considerations

Texans know that long guns are traditions, handed down with respect for both heritage and responsibility. However, it’s crucial to understand how Texas gun laws shape your rights and duties as a proud firearm owner.

Open Carry Rules For Long Guns

Texas stands firm in its support of the Second Amendment, allowing the open carry of rifles and shotguns without a permit in most public places. There’s no need to hide your firearm when you’re crossing the fence line before dawn, headed to your deer blind, or taking part in a community dove hunt. However, common sense and respect for your neighbors are critical; brandishing or displaying a long gun in a way that alarms others could violate the law, even in an open carry state like Texas. Responsible ownership means carrying with confidence and caution, constantly aware of your environment and its people.

Transporting Your Long Gun

Taking your rifle or shotgun to the range, out to hunt, or across the ranch? You’ll want to transport it unloaded and secured for safety and to uphold Texas standards on responsible firearm handling. At the same time, Texas doesn’t specifically require long guns to be locked up while in your vehicle; it’s a point of pride to set an example, especially when traveling through school zones or other sensitive areas where local restrictions may apply.

Tactical & Modern Rifles

In Texas, open carry of long guns, including tactical rifles, AR-platforms, and semi-automatics, is generally legal without a permit, so long as you’re legally eligible and follow all applicable location restrictions. However, certain firearms are regulated under federal law via the National Firearms Act (NFA): this includes short-barreled rifles (SBRs), short-barreled shotguns (SBSs), fully automatic weapons, suppressors, and “any other weapons” (AOWs). That’s why knowing how to find the best firearms class can make a real difference. A reputable instructor will improve your skills and ensure you’re equipped with the legal knowledge to handle and transport these firearms responsibly.

Final Thoughts

Navigating Texas gun laws takes knowledge, discipline, and legal protection you can count on. Whether you’re carrying openly in your hometown or concealed while traveling the state, your decisions should always reflect a commitment to safety and compliance. 

At USAGO, our members get 24/7 access to legal defense, expert-backed resources, factory-direct savings, and a nationwide network of responsible gun owners. With USAGO on your side, you’re never alone when it matters most. We stand for the freedom to carry confidently, backed by law, loyalty, and trusted protection built for real life in the Lone Star State.

Read also:

• Concealed Carry vs Open Carry
• The Best Personal Protection Handgun
• How to Choose a Firearms Instructor

Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Gun Laws

Who can legally own a gun in Texas?

In Texas, individuals 18 or older can legally own a firearm unless prohibited by law, such as convicted felons or those with specific mental health or protective order restrictions.

Is a permit required for open carry in Texas?

Open carry refers to visibly carrying a handgun in a belt or shoulder holster. No permit is needed for open carry if you’re 21 or older. Still, having a License to Carry (LTC) offers added benefits, especially for travel and streamlined firearm purchases.

What is concealed carry in Texas?

Concealed carry means carrying a hidden firearm on your person or vehicle. Texas allows eligible adults to carry without a permit, and USAGO offers training and member perks.

Do I need a license for concealed carry in Texas?

A license isn’t required, but getting a Texas LTC provides advantages like reciprocity in other states and smoother law enforcement interactions. USAGO helps you prepare with training and protection.

Where is open carry prohibited in Texas?

Open carry is restricted in schools, polling sites, bars, federal buildings, and private properties with signage. USAGO helps members stay compliant through ongoing legal updates and resources.

Where is concealed carry prohibited in Texas?

Concealed carry is banned in specific locations, such as schools, sporting events, hospitals, courthouses, and businesses. Additionally, House Bill 1794 is advancing through the legislature to allow voters to carry concealed weapons at polling stations beginning September 1, 2025. However, it still prohibits guns at locations that are already restricted. USAGO members stay informed and protected with our legal insights and up-to-date guidance.

Can non-residents carry firearms in Texas?

Yes, non-residents over 21 may carry openly or concealed if legally eligible. They can also apply for a Texas LTC and enjoy USAGO’s ProShield self-defense legal protection, powered by Firearms Legal Protection (FLP), training, and exclusive member benefits.