Getting a CHL in TX. What's involved.

By Zee

I realized that although I recommend getting a CHL I haven't covered the actual process. Some of my readers may not know what how difficult/easy/expensive it is to get a CHL in Texas.

GC Ch. 411. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY OF THE STATE OF TEXAS Subch. H. LICENSE TO CARRY A CONCEALED HANDGUN

For Texas Residents:

1.) You must be eligible.

You must be at least 21 years old, pass a criminal background check, be drug free, have no delinquencies in child support payments or tax payments, not in default on a student loan, and not suffering from any mental illness. For actual requirements, see "GC §411.172. ELIGIBILITY."

2.) You must attend a ten hour CHL class taught by a certified instructor.

Thee typically cost $99 to $299 depending on the instructor. The clas will cover Laws relating to weapons & use of deadly force, handgun use & proficiency & safety, Nonvoilent dispute resolution, and proper sotrage for firearms. For actual requirements see "GC §411.188. HANDGUN PROFICIENCY REQUIREMENT"

3.) You must pass a written test on the laws regarding firearms in texas.

The test is typicaly 100 questions, and covers the Texas laws and other relevant material from class. This is information that you should know by heart if you are going to carry a handgun.

4.) You must pass a firearms accuracy test at the gun range, supervised by a certified CHL instructor.

The test is a pass or fail system. Every shot counts. The range accuracy test consists of shooting at a total of 50 rounds at a "B27 target" from 9 feet, 21 feet, and 45 feet.

5.) You must pass a FBI NICS E CHECK background check.

This is done during after the application is submitted to the state (see step 7). For more info on the NICS E Check, see the FBI website: http://www.fbi.gov/about-us/cjis/nics/e-check

6.) You must get photographed, finger printed, and your ID and information certified by a notary for the application.

Wash you hands before getting them inked and the ink will come off easier afterward.

7.) You must fill out an application and pay the administrative licensing fee to the state

The application must be filled out exactly as required, or the permit will be denied. Any good CHL instructor should help you with this. The licensing fee is currently $140, and in nonrefundable. For detailed information see "GC §411.174. APPLICATION."

8.) You must wait 4-6 weeks for processing & delivery of your license before you can legally carry.

Long story short, if you are eligible, pass a background check, learn the laws, and can shoot straight, then for 10 hours of your time and $250+ you can have a license to carry in the state of Texas. Licenses are good for 5 years, and renewals are the same process but slightly cheaper.

This process is fairly extensive - more so that other states. But it is still easy enough to do in just one day.

If you are going to get your CHL (which I highly encourage you to do) then I'll ask you a personal favor. Go above & beyond. Know and understand the laws. Do not take the right to bear arms lightly. Be extra vigilant about staying within the letter of the law. Keep the good name of CHL holders clean. After all, a CHL is among the most responsible and trustworthy people in the state. Yes it is a constitutional right, but it is also a badge of duty and honor. Personally, the responsibility of carrying a gun daily makes me want to be a better person and an even more upstanding citizen.

For more information on CHL laws, see the TXDPS website:
http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/administration/crime_records/chl/txchlaws.htm