
Texas LTC at 18: The 7 Big Questions Young Adults Are Asking
June 3, 2025 2:53 pmTexas LTC at 18: What You Need to Know Now
If you’re a young adult in Texas, there’s a huge opportunity most people your age aren’t even thinking about: getting legally licensed to carry. With the opportunity to obtain a Texas LTC at 18, you can start exploring this responsibility early.
Thanks to a major legal shift, 18–20 year olds can now apply for their Texas License to Carry (LTC) — even through an online course.
But if you’re like most people, you’ve got questions. A lot of them.
Here are the 7 biggest questions young Texans are asking about getting their LTC — and what you need to know right now.
🔸 1. Can I Really Get a Texas LTC at 18?
Yes. 100%.
A federal court ruled that 18–20 year olds cannot be excluded from Texas’ LTC program. Now, if you meet eligibility criteria (no felony convictions, mentally competent, etc.), you’re good to go.
You’ll complete:
- A DPS-approved online course
- A shooting proficiency test
- A fingerprint/background check
- An application with Texas DPS
Then you’ll receive your official Texas LTC.
🔸 2. Is the LTC Better Than Permitless Carry?
Absolutely.
Permitless carry gives you minimal protection. With the LTC, you get:
- Legal carry in 30+ states
- Stronger self-defense protections under Texas law
- Access to places restricted to LTC holders
- Skip-the-line background check benefits at FFLs
If you carry without training, you’re at risk for serious legal trouble. The LTC gives you education and protection.
🔸 3. How Does the Online Course Work?
It’s easy — and built for real life.
- 100% Online
- Works on phone, tablet, laptop
- 4 hours or less
- Certificate download when complete
- Schedule your range test on your time
There are no classrooms, nor pressure, and no fluff. You work at your pace, then move to the shooting test when you’re ready.
🔸 4. What’s on the Shooting Test?
The range test is simple and practical:
- 50 rounds total
- Distances: 3, 7, and 15 yards
- You’ll need: a .22 caliber or larger handgun, 50 rounds of ammo, and safety gear
The test is more about safety and control than perfect marksmanship.
Never shot before? That’s okay — certified instructors work with beginners all the time. You’ll be guided through every step.
🔸 5. How Much Does It Cost?
Expect to spend around $125–$160 total.
Breakdown:
- Online Course: ~$64
- Range Qualification: ~$25–$50
- Application & Fingerprints: ~$40–$50
That’s less than one trip to a concert or new tech drop — and it gives you lasting legal protection.
🔸 6. Will This Help Me in My Career?
Surprisingly, yes.
Employers look for responsibility. Law enforcement, security, and even many federal roles respect LTC holders. Your license proves:
- You’re trained in Texas law
- You’ve passed background checks
- You take responsibility seriously
Add it to your résumé. You’ll stand out.
🔸 7. What Happens After I Get My LTC?
You’ll receive a plastic license in the mail, and it’s valid for 5 years.
From there:
- You can carry concealed or open
- You’ll be subject to carry laws, signage rules, and more
- You’ll have peace of mind when traveling, especially across states with reciprocity
And the confidence that comes from knowing your rights? That sticks with you for life.
✅ Don’t Wait Until 21
You don’t have to be older to be smarter.
You can get your Texas LTC at 18 — and carry the right way now.
It is fast. It’s online. It’s legal.
And most importantly, it sets you apart from everyone else your age.
👉 Enroll in the Texas Online License to Carry Course Now!
Take control. Stay legal. Carry with confidence.
Satisfied Customer
“ I learned much more than I imagined, and I have more than 20 years of experience. You can take the classes here with your eyes closed and without fear, I guarantee it.”
