Texas LTC for 18 Year Olds vs. Permitless Carry: What’s the Difference?

What’s the Difference Between the Texas LTC and Permitless Carry for 18–20 Year Olds?

Now that you’re 18, you might be hearing two things:
“Just carry—it’s Texas. You don’t need a license.”
and
“You should still get your LTC—it’s worth it if you’re considering the Texas LTC for 18 year olds.”

So what’s the truth?

In this post, we’ll break down the real difference between permitless carry and having a Texas LTC for 18 year olds, and why more young adults are still choosing to get licensed even though they don’t have to.

1. What Is Permitless Carry in Texas?

Permitless carry (aka constitutional carry) allows most legal adults to carry a handgun in public without a license, as long as:

• You’re at least 18
• You’re not a felon or otherwise prohibited
• The location doesn’t ban weapons
• The firearm is holstered

Sounds simple, right? Not exactly.

There are many limitations and legal gray areas—especially for 18–20 year olds.

2. What Does the LTC Add for 18–20 Year Olds?

The Texas LTC (License to Carry) isn’t just a formality. It provides real advantages—especially for young adults.

✅ With a Texas LTC, you:

• Can carry in more locations legally
• Are protected in more situations (like on college campuses, parking lots, and some businesses)
• Get legal presumption in self-defense incidents
• Avoid background checks when buying firearms
• Can carry in 30+ other states with reciprocity

Without a license, none of those apply.

3. What Happens If You Make a Mistake Without an LTC?

Let’s be blunt: carrying a firearm without understanding the law is dangerous—and not just in a safety sense.

If you’re caught:

• Carrying where you shouldn’t
• Failing to understand 30.06/30.07 signage
• Brandishing or improperly handling your weapon

You could face criminal charges, even if your intent wasn’t malicious.

With an LTC, the odds of making these mistakes drop dramatically because you’ll be trained and tested.

4. Is It Hard to Get the LTC at 18?

Not at all. In fact, it’s easier than ever. You can take the Texas LTC course online or in person.

At In Focus Training, we offer:

• A self-paced, mobile-friendly online class
• Support for scheduling your range proficiency test
• Guidance for submitting your DPS application

It’s simple, affordable, and sets you apart from the crowd.

5. Which Should You Choose as an 18–20 Year Old?

Here’s the real answer:
Permitless carry is legal, but the LTC is smart.

As a young adult, you’re more likely to be questioned, more vulnerable to legal missteps, and more in need of clear guidelines.

The Texas LTC for 18 year olds gives you:

• Confidence to carry
• Proof of training
• Protection in and out of state

So why risk it without it?

Final Word: Just Because You Can Doesn’t Mean You Should

Sure, you can carry without a license. But the Texas LTC gives you legal backup, peace of mind, and long-term benefits you don’t get with permitless carry.

👉 Click here to start your Texas Online LTC course if you’re 18–20

👉 Or enroll in our in-person LTC class here

Either way—you’re not too young to be responsible. You’re right on time.

Satisfied Customer

“This was such an awesome class and the shooting test was so informative. Anthony is a great teacher and very knowledgeable. If you are planning to take a LTC class I strongly recommend Anthony’s class!!”

Enroll Now!