BENEFITS OF A TEXAS LTC
- Legally carry in far more locations than with "Permitless Carry"
- Knowledge of numerous laws, restrictions and responsibilities
- Knowledge of safety issues with ammunition, handguns & holsters
- Bypass background check when buying guns through FFL dealers
- Reciprocity: Texas License currently recognized in 37 States
- Trespass protection if carrying beyond many "No Guns" signs
- Legal school zone carry, college campus carry
- Eligibility for permission letter for Corps of Engineers lands & lakes
- Better interactions with police, more peace of mind
- License must be recognized as primary or secondary form of ID
- Simple, inexpensive online renewal with DPS every 5 years
1-21-2023 Update:
"License to Carry" (Previously known as CHL)
DCSA has offered TX CHL (Concealed Handgun License) courses since the licenses went into effect on January 1 of 1996, with continuous focus on quality over quantity. With changes in the law that add the option for Open Carry beginning January 1, 2016, Texas DPS has changed the terminology to License to Carry, or LTC for short.
Our LTC course includes:
- DCSA 1-hour safety orientation, non violent dispute resolution, child protection measures, retention holsters, numerous legal Issues
- One copy per household of 24+ page written lesson plan
- Minimum 4 to Maximum 6 Hour "Classroom" Training (typically 5 hours) and 25-question written test
- Eye & Ear Protection, Target(s) and Administering of 50-round "demonstration of proficiency" (class and range time varies per levels below)
- "Certificate of Training" (Form LTC-104) upon completion
STEP 1: Make sure you are eligible for a Texas License to Carry (LTC)
To be eligible for a Texas License to Carry you:
- Must be a legal resident of Texas, or apply for a non-resident license
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must not ever have been convicted of a FELONY
- Must not be currently charged with a Class A or Class B MISDEMEANOR or FELONY
- Must not be chemically dependent, including alcohol
- Must be capable of exercising sound judgment
- Must not have been convicted of a Class A or Class B misdemeanor, or a disorderly conduct in the past 5 years
- Must be fully qualified under federal and state laws to purchase a handgun (any domestic violence conviction can be major problem)
- Must not be delinquent in child support payment or property taxes.
- Must not be restricted by a protective or restraining order involving a person
- Must not have been prosecuted for a felony grade juvenile delinquent conduct in the previous 10 years
STEP 2: Determine your experience level and which "Plan " below is most applicable***
- Experienced Shooter: For experienced pistol people (and only for experienced people) prepared to step up to the line and shoot the pass/fail 50-round qualifier shortly after classroom segment. (Max of 20 to 30 minutes in the range, no assists, no warm-up.) Approx. 5.5 hour (total) Private "Plan A" Class for 1 person: $440.00. No additional charge for second "Plan A" person to take class and shooting test at the same time.
- Intermediate HANDGUN Shooter: Normally 5 hours in classroom plus a 60 minute range session for practice with up to 50 rounds and testing with the next 50 rounds. Often a good option for moderate experienced students with a new or untested gun. Assistance/coaching as needed during the first 50 rounds plus B-27 targets identical to those used on the subsequent "demonstration of proficiency" (shooting test). Approx. 6 hour (total) Private "Plan B" Class for 1 person: $480.00. No additional charge for second "Plan B" person to take class and shooting test at the same time.
- Inexperienced Shooter with focus on 1 REVOLVER: Normally around 5 hours in classroom plus an approximately 2 hour individualized classroom and range session for coaching and practice with up to 50 rounds and testing with the next 50 rounds. Experience has shown that around 100 rounds of ammo is needed to get the average new shooter comfortable and competent with a REVOLVER and to pass the "demonstration of proficiency" (shooting test). The first hour of the firearms segment is typically spent in the classroom staging area with focus on a selected revolver and the "hands on" portion of our more comprehensive Handguns 101 class, then the next 60 minutes in the range. Approx. 7 hours (total) Private "Plan C" Class (technically, 2 different classes) for 1 person: $560.00. To add a second "Plan C" person, add approx. 1 hour and $80. (Cost of $320 each.)
- Inexperienced Shooter with focus on 1 SEMI-AUTOMATIC handgun: This level is geared primarily for those who have already own (or borrow from friend or family) a semi-automatic handgun. Normally 5 hours of LTC classroom segment plus an approximately 3 hour individualized classroom and range session for coaching and practice with up to 50 rounds and testing with the next 50 rounds. Experience has shown that at least 100 rounds of ammo is needed to get the average new shooter comfortable and competent with a SEMI-AUTOMATIC and to pass the "demonstration of proficiency" (shooting test). The first 30 minutes is typically spent in the classroom staging area with the "hands on" (stance, grip, etc.) segment of our more comprehensive Handguns 101 class, then the next 90 minutes in the range. Approx. 8 hour (total) Private "Plan D" Class (technically, 2 different classes) for 1 person: $640.00. To add a second "Plan D" person, add approx. 1 hour and $80. (Cost of $360 each.)
- Inexperienced Shooter with focus on learning to shoot up to 3 handguns (revolvers and/or semi-automatics): This level includes the "standard" 5 hours of LTC classroom segments as described above plus approximately 4 hours of classroom and range segments from our Handguns 101 lesson plan. It includes individualized classroom and range session for coaching and practice with up to 50 rounds and testing with the next 50 rounds. The pricing below assumes that student has their own guns and ammunition. See Handguns 101 page for options and pricing if rental guns desired. Technically, 2 different classes combined. Approx. 9 hours (total). Private "Plan E" Class for 1 person: $720.00. To add a second "Plan E" person, add approximately 1 hour and $80. (Cost of $400 each.)
- Inexperienced Shooter with focus on learning to shoot up to 3 larger handguns (revolvers and/or semi-automatics) on Day 1, then returning on a subsequent day to try up to 3 others (generally smaller): This level includes the "standard" 5 hours of LTC classroom segments as described above plus approximately 4 hours of classroom and range segments from our Handguns 101 lesson plan on Day 1. It includes individualized classroom and range session for coaching and practice with up to 50 rounds and testing with the next 50 rounds. The intent with this "Plan E" option to focus on prepping for and taking the shooting test on Day 1, then on Day 2, trying out some smaller "carry" guns (which are not necessarily the best for newbies to pass the "demonstrations of proficiency). See Handguns 101 page for options and pricing on rental guns. Technically, 2 different classes combined. Approx. 10 hours (total). Private "Plan F" Class for 1 person: $800.00. To add a second "Plan F" person, add approximately 2 hours and $160. (Cost of $480 each.)
- Plan G: EXPERIENCED Shooter seeking prompt completion of an Online Course: Please read & heed the descriptions/instructions detailed in red text below.
Plan C, D and E classes, if desired, can sometimes be split up over 2 separate days. Plan F classes are done only over 2 days so that newbie students do not get worn out with too much trigger time in 1 day.
Students who do not have ammunition or who want to conserve their own ammunition will have the option to purchase some of ours for the class OR take the test with one of our .22s: a H&R Revolver with 6" barrel, a Beretta Neos with 6" barrel or Sig Mosquito. .22LR rental pricing, including 50 rounds of .22 ammo: $15.00.
9mm rental handgun pricing, including brass case 9mm ammo: $25 per 50 rounds until further notice here. For handgun calibers other than .22LR, students should be prepared to pay $.75 per round for .380, .38, .40 and .45ACP. Feel free to inquire on actual availibility and pricing for your cailber when you send e-mail (Step 4 below) stating your circumstances. (If not known about already, check out www.ammoseek.com).
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"Plan G": The same $80 hourly rates as above - with a 1.5 hour minimum - are applicable for anyone who needs to complete the RANGE PORTION of the Texas LTC "online classroom course" option where Govt Code 411.188 (on pg 18 of the 2018 LTC-16) reads:
(d-1) A qualified handgun instructor shall require an applicant who successfully completed an online version of the classroom instruction part of the handgun proficiency course to complete not less than one hour but not more than two hours of the range instruction part of the handgun proficiency course BEFORE allowing a physical demonstration of the handgun proficiency as described by Subsection (d)(2).
The first hour will consist of the same DCSA Orientation as is standard with all classes, which meets the requirement stated above - and also qualifies people The second hour, or as much as needed thereof, will consist of the same range safety instructions and "demonstration of proficiency" as regular LTC class Plan A" shooters (defined above). (See FAQ page for details on procedures, the actual course of fire and target scoring.)
In summary, the cost for the RANGE PORTION of the "hybrid" (online elsewhere + shooting at DCSA) LTC class option for 1 OR 2 EXPERIENCED students on a weekday or weekday evening is $120.00.
If interest, contact Lonnie at dcsa1996@yahoo.com and state
(1) that you have read this entire page and need a "Plan G" completion class,
(2) the make, model and caliber of the handgun you plan to use,
(3) that you do or do not have at least 50 rounds of ammo for it and
(4) your contact information and a specific date and time that you would like to make an appointment and PROMPTY PRE-PAY for the PRIVATE SESSION.
(5) If another (unkown) person happens to come along after you have pre-registered and agrees to do the session at the same time (and split the cost), are you OK with that OR do you prefer to keep it private?
Do not e-mail a copy of the Certificate of Training. Upon completion of the requirements above, instructor will sign off on the form LTC-104.
The time frame and pricing for "Plan G" above are for EXPERIENCED shooters to "demonstrate proficiency". Students should NOT bring a brand new, unfired semi automatic pistol (as they often need a breakin period to avoid malfunctions during the testing). IF APPLICABLE, we can discuss the possibility of a private practice session, "Shooting Skills Tuneup" or Handguns 101 class in advance of the LTC "demonstration of proficiency".
Please continue reading below, especially "Step 3".
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*** Many inexperienced shooters choose to take our Handguns 101 class (described on "Other Courses" page) prior to taking the LTC class - and get a 1 hour ($80) credit on the subsequently applicable level of LTC Class. And can arrive 1 hour late for LTC class. Another option, especially for busy people who plan to get the LTC within the next year, is to take the classroom portion (mostly legal issues) with friends or family, then complete the 101 class and shooting portion of the LTC class later at a mutually convenient time.
"Newbie" students doing a Plan C, D or E class with rental guns typically learn and qualify best on one of the 22s or "work horse" guns (mentioned on Handguns 101 page) and often come back on a subsequent date to try one or more of the smaller, lighter (more recoil) "carry" guns (also mentioned on Handguns 101 page). A "Plan F" class description has recently been added (above) for such circumstances.
STEP 3: Read this general information
- The classroom portion of the course comes first and lasts approximately 5 hours. Then there is a short written test over what you learned in class.
- The pricing on all levels above covers 1 OR 2 students. Unlike some other locations with "shoot and scoot" instruction, it is not price "per person". Additional students (beyond 2) can often be accommodated with the cost adjusted based upon the a rate of $80 per hour.
- While the classroom can seat up to 16 students, no more than two shooters are on the firing line at once. (1 to 4 students are most common size)
- Inexperienced shooters often shoot last or come back at a later time/date to allow adequate time for practicing and coaching. (Unlike many others, we do not knowingly mix experienced and inexperienced shooters on the firing line.)
- A refrigerator and microwave are on site for those who want to pack a lunch. Or, we sometimes take a 1-hour break and go to local restaurants,
- If you bring your own firearm and ammo, please leave them locked in your vehicle until instructed otherwise.
- Handguns used for the "proficiency demonstration" can be a revolver or semi-automatic. Effective 9-1-17, even .22s are OK. However, if plans to shoot a 22, try to avoid bulk ammo (from 300 to 500 round bricks)" for shooting test. Unless another specific type is recommended by the manufacturer, best (if practical) to bring 100 round boxes of CCI MiniMags or 50-round boxes of CCI Velocitors.
- Leave firearm unloaded until instructed to load it.
- Do not bring pre-loaded magazines.
- Do not bring reloaded ammo.
- Do not bring a new or untested pistol for the "Plan A" option. (Plan B recommended).
- Do not wear sandals, flip flops or open clothing (halter tops, etc.) for shooting segment.
- Shirts with a button up collar and a baseball cap are recommended.
- DCSA has several handguns available for rent. Most common are 9mm semi-automatic handguns (Glock, Sig, Kahr, Springfield, Smith & Wesson, and Ruger) and .38 revolvers (Smith & Wesson and Ruger). Experienced students not shooting immediately after class and wishing to rent, get a brief explanation on each gun and then choose one for the shooting test (even a .22 if desired to save money).
- Experienced shooters can rent a 9mm handgun (with 50 rounds included) for $25 (until furthur notice here). $15 for .22LR
- Intermediate and Inexperienced shooters can rent a 9mm handgun (with 100 rounds included) for $50 until furthur notice. $20 for .22LR
- Rental handguns are an option for older or especially recoil-sensitive shooters. They include a .22 semiautomatic or a revolver, both with 6" barrels. Another is a Smith & Wesson 380EZ. The slide on it is much easier to manipulate than most semi autos and its size helps to dissipate the recoil.
- Students doing a Plan E class should plan on as much as $150 (preferably cash) if planning to rent guns in calibers other than 22LR or 9mm (depending upon student needs and circumstances, we generally shoot somewhere between 75 to 150 rounds).
STEP 4: Sign up for a class
Please send an e-mail to dcsa1996@yahoo.com.
Include at least
(1) your contact information,
(2) your "objective(s),
(3) which one of the above 7 "plans" might best fit your circumstances,
(4) your circumstances in regard to current access to a handgun and ammunition,
(5) the same info. for any friend(s) or family member(s) who might join you and
(6) your preferred date and time to start the training.
If you have taken another class from DCSA in the previous 12 months, inform Lonnie of that too at dcsa1996@yahoo.com as to the type of class and date.
Upon agreement of a mutually convenient time, payment for the class & range reservation can be then made via cash, check, plastic or a combination thereof.
STEP 5: Show up for class at DCSA
Eye and ear protection are available at no extra charge if students do not have their own. If planning to shoot a semi-automatic pistol, no sandals, halter tops or other clothing that can readily catch hot brass. A baseball cap and long sleeve shirt (using the very top button) are recommended.
Please be on time or early. We are located at 409 Copper Canyon Road, Argyle, TX 76226. There is a left hand turn lane to the entrance driveway.
This is near Argyle, Lantana, Flower Mound, Highland Village, Lewisville, Grapevine, Corinth, Bartonville, Roanoke, and Denton. See Google Maps for directions.
STEP 6: (1) Apply for the license via DPS' web site, (2) get your fingerprinting done, and (3) send the Certificate of Training to DPS.
The DPS Application and fingerprinting can be done before or after taking the class.
After the course completion, students have up to 1 year to submit the Certificate of Completion (LTC-100) to DPS (along with max fee of around $40.00.)
Suggestion: Complete the DPS online application first, then wait theIr suggested number of hours before sending DPS any attachments (such as the LTC-100 or DD-214).
Even before clicking on the links below, you should watch this potentially helpful video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K8aMm-I3I34&feature=youtu.be
To complete as much as possible of the procedure with DPS online (either before or after class), follow the instructions given at https://txapps.texas.gov/txapp/txdps/ltc/
Those using this option (and paying with a credit card) will have up to 1 year to get all of the required items (on checklist that is printed from DPS' web site) submitted to DPS - or will have to pay the license fee again.
As of March 1, 2011, for fingerprinting, "original license" applicants must use the vendor specified by DPS. You will need to first get the application completed via the DPS site link https://txapps.texas.gov/txapp/txdps/ltc/. Once your information is in the system, you should to be able to go into the link provided by DPS to schedule an appointment for the electronic fingerprinting (which costs around $10).
STEP 7: Wait up to 60 days (plus mailing time, sometimes more during high demand periods).
STEP 8: Receive your License to Carry !!!
STEP 9: Keep practicing and consider options for more advanced training.