Information on Texas Concealed Handgun Licensing
Thank you for your interest in the Concealed Handgun Licensing (CHL) Program. This handout is intended to briefly outline the policies and procedures regarding class enrollment and clarify some of the issues about CHL law.
First, to apply for a CHL, you must be:
- A legal resident of Texas. (non-resident licenses are available)
- 21 years of age or older, excluding military exemption. (You may take the course 6 months prior to your 21st birthday.)
- Not Chemically dependent on drugs or alcohol or of unsound mind.
- Not convicted of a felony in any state, at any time.
- Not convicted of a class A or class B misdemeanor within the past 5 years.
- Not subject to a restraining order or protective order.
If you meet the minimum requirements above and wish to apply for a concealed handgun license, you may obtain an application by doing one of the following:
1. Apply online (go to www.texasonline.com , select online services, concealed handgun licensing and complete the application. You will need a credit card.)
2. Just arrive on the day of the class you’ve signed up for and your instructor will have a packet ready for you.
3. Renewal students must contact the DPS directly, either online or by phone (1-800-224-5744) to receive your renewal packet. Instructors do not have packets for renewal students.
Fingerprints contact Fast Fingerprints at 1 877-932-2435 or www.fastfingerprints.com
Photos $ 10.00 (Cash)
Notarization of Forms $5.00 (Cash)
Firearms Rental $15.00 (Cash)
Course Length:
Initial classes: 10 hours (minimum by state law).
Renewal classes: 4 hours (minimum by state law).
Course Requirements:
Written test: All students must score 70% or higher.
Range Proficiency: All students must score 70% or higher.
All students must qualify with a .32 caliber firearm or larger.
All students must be capable of safely handling their firearms. This includes the loading of magazines.
No class time is available to teach basic shooting skills. If you believe you will have difficulty passing the proficiency test, you may want to enroll in a basic shooting course. These courses are available below.