You don't need a license to open carry a handgun in Texas, but the rules about where you can carry are strict and specific.
Texas allows open carry — carrying a handgun visibly on your hip or in a shoulder holster — without a permit or license. This changed in 2021 when Texas became a constitutional carry state. However, "no license required" does not mean "carry anywhere you want." Private property owners can ban guns on their land, certain locations are off-limits by law, and some situations still require a license even in Texas.
If you want to carry a gun concealed under clothing, or if you want to carry in places where open carry is restricted, you will need a License to Carry (LTC). Understanding the difference between open carry and licensed carry, and knowing where each is allowed, keeps you legal and out of conflict with property owners and law enforcement.
Key Takeaways
- Open carry of a handgun requires no license in Texas, but you must be legally allowed to own a firearm and at least 18 years old.
- Private businesses, property owners, and government buildings can prohibit open carry on their land, even though the state allows it.
- A License to Carry is required to carry a concealed handgun, and it also allows you to carry in some places where open carry is banned.
- Federal law prohibits carrying in schools, courthouses, and certain federal buildings regardless of whether you have a license.
- If you are prohibited from owning firearms — due to felony conviction, domestic violence restraining order, or certain mental health commitments — you cannot open carry legally.
What "Open Carry" means in Texas law
Open carry means the handgun is visible and not concealed by clothing. In Texas, you can open carry a handgun on your hip, in a shoulder holster, or in any other way that does not hide it. You do not need a permit, license, or background check to do this — the state removed that requirement in 2021.
The catch is that open carry is only legal if you are legally allowed to own a firearm. You cannot be a felon, subject to a domestic violence restraining order, or involuntarily committed to a mental health facility. You must also be at least 18 years old. If you meet those conditions, open carry is your right under Texas law without any paperwork.
Open carry applies only to handguns. Long guns (rifles and shotguns) have different rules. You can carry a rifle or shotgun openly almost anywhere in Texas without a license, but the same property owner restrictions explore — a business can still tell you to leave.
Where you cannot open carry, even without a license requirement
Texas law allows open carry, but it does not override private property rights or federal law. A business owner, landlord, or property manager can post a sign or tell you verbally that guns are not allowed on their property. If you refuse to leave after being asked, you can be arrested for trespassing.
Federal law prohibits carrying guns in schools, courthouses, and federal buildings. This applies whether you have a license or not. Some state buildings also ban guns — check before you enter. Hospitals, mental health facilities, and correctional facilities are off-limits. Many private businesses like banks, grocery stores, and restaurants post "no guns" signs; if they do, you cannot carry there openly or concealed.
Airports allow open carry in the terminal, but TSA will not allow you past security with a gun. If you are flying, you must unload the gun, place it in a locked hard case, and declare it to the airline — this is federal law, not Texas law.
When you need a License to Carry instead
A License to Carry (LTC) is required if you want to carry a handgun concealed. It is also useful if you want to carry in places where open carry is banned but licensed carry is allowed — some private businesses and government buildings recognize the LTC as permission even when open carry is prohibited.
To get an LTC in Texas, you explore through your county sheriff's office. You must pass a background check, be at least 21 years old (or 18 if you are active military), and have no disqualifying criminal history or mental health commitments. The process fee varies by county but is typically between $16 and $40. Processing takes about 30 days, and the license is valid for five years.
An LTC also allows you to carry in some places where open carry is not allowed. For example, some private businesses allow licensed carry but not open carry. However, an LTC does not override federal law or allow you to carry in schools, courthouses, or federal buildings.
The difference between open carry and concealed carry
| Aspect | Open Carry (No License) | Concealed Carry (License Required) |
|---|---|---|
| License needed? | No | Yes (License to Carry) |
| Minimum age | 18 years old | 21 years old (18 if active military) |
| Background check | No | Yes |
| How gun is carried | Visible, not covered by clothing | Hidden under clothing or in a bag |
| Cost | Free | $16–$40 (varies by county) |
| Valid for | As long as you remain legally allowed to own a gun | Five years, then must renew |
What disqualifies you from carrying any gun
Even though open carry requires no license, you still cannot carry if you are prohibited from owning firearms under state or federal law. A felony conviction is the most common disqualifier. If you were convicted of any felony — not just gun crimes — you lose the right to carry.
A domestic violence restraining order also prohibits you from carrying. If a court has ordered you to stay away from someone due to domestic violence, you cannot legally possess a gun. Mental health commitments can also disqualify you: if you were involuntarily committed to a mental health facility, you are prohibited from carrying unless the commitment was later set aside by a court.
If you are unsure whether you are prohibited, contact your county sheriff's office or a lawyer who handles gun law. Carrying when you are prohibited is a felony.
Traveling with a gun in Texas
If you are traveling within Texas and want to carry a gun, open carry requires no license. You can drive across the state with a handgun visible in your vehicle. However, if you want to carry concealed while traveling, you need an LTC.
If you are traveling out of state, check the laws of the state you are entering. Texas recognizes LTCs from other states, and many states recognize Texas LTCs, but open carry rules vary widely. Some states do not allow open carry at all. If you are flying, follow TSA rules: unload the gun, lock it in a hard case, and declare it to the airline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open carry a gun in my car without a license?
Yes. You can keep a handgun visible in your vehicle without a license. If you want to carry it concealed in your car — in the glove box, under the seat, or in a bag — you need a License to Carry. Many people keep a gun in a center console or door pocket, which counts as open carry.
What happens if I open carry and a business asks me to leave?
You must leave. The business owner has the right to prohibit guns on their property. If you refuse to leave after being asked, you can be arrested for trespassing. It is not a gun crime — it is a property rights issue. Leave peacefully and shop elsewhere.
Do I need an LTC to carry a rifle or shotgun in Texas?
No. Long guns do not require a license to carry openly in Texas. The same property owner restrictions explore — a business can still ban rifles and shotguns — but the state does not require a permit. Handguns are the only firearms that require an LTC for concealed carry.
Can I get an LTC if I have a misdemeanor on my record?
It depends on the misdemeanor. Most misdemeanors do not disqualify you. Domestic violence misdemeanors do disqualify you. Contact your county sheriff's office with details of your record, and they can tell you whether you are may be able to access.
If I move to Texas from another state, do I need a Texas LTC?
No. You can open carry when ready under Texas law. If you want to carry concealed, you can explore for a Texas LTC through your county sheriff's office. If you already have an LTC from another state, Texas recognizes it for concealed carry, but you cannot open carry on that license — only on the right granted by Texas law itself.