I hear this question constantly: “Texas has permitless carry now — why would I still pay for and take an LTC course?” It’s a fair question, and the honest answer is that permitless carry and a License to Carry solve different problems. Here’s what the LTC still gets you that permitless carry doesn’t.
Reciprocity In 37+ Other States
Permitless carry is a Texas law. It ends at the Texas state line. A Texas LTC, on the other hand, is recognized in more than 37 other states through reciprocity agreements — meaning if you travel, a Texas LTC can keep you legally covered in places where carrying without one would be illegal. If you ever leave the state with a firearm, this alone is worth the cost of the course.
Access To More Locations
Certain private properties, some government buildings, and specific posted locations treat licensed carriers differently than unlicensed ones under Texas law. An LTC can open doors — sometimes literally — that permitless carry doesn’t.
A State-Issued Credential In A Police Encounter
An LTC comes with a background check baked into the licensing process, and Texas law requires you to notify a peace officer that you’re carrying and display your license on request. In practice, that state-issued credential — with your background check already on file — often makes an encounter with law enforcement smoother and less tense than it might otherwise be. It signals, immediately and officially, that you were vetted before you ever picked up that firearm.
At $40 For Five Years, It’s Inexpensive Insurance
The license itself costs $40 for a 5-year term. Combined with our $99 online + range course, you’re looking at a modest one-time cost for five years of reciprocity, access, and a credential that works in your favor — not a recurring expense, and not a difficult process.
The Bottom Line
Permitless carry removed the legal requirement to get licensed in Texas. It didn’t remove the reasons to. If you carry — or might ever carry outside Texas — the LTC is still worth having.
