Out of State Licenses

Under new rules, which went into effect September 1, 2005, you may get a Texas CHL regardless of what state you live in.

You must meet all other requirements for a Texas license, including taking the Texas training course in Texas. You also need to get a Texas identification card.

In general the application process is to submit an Application Request (PDF) to the Texas Department of Public Safety. You will also have to come to Texas to take a Texas CHL course. Then you fill out the application forms and submit them with your course certificate to DPS.

A growing number of states have reciprocity agreements with Texas, making their CHL's valid in Texas and vice versa. Under Texas law effective September 1, 1997, the Texas Department of Public Safety is negotiating agreements with states where:

  1. The eligibility requirements imposed by the other state include background check requirements that meet or exceed background check requirements imposed by federal law as a condition of receiving a handgun. (NICS.)
  2. The other state will agree to recognize a CHL issued in Texas.
If you live in a state with a reasonable CHL law, encouraging this process may be your answer. TCHA Home Page
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