How to Get a Concealed Handgun License in Houston, Texas

Eligibility and the general procedure for obtaining a concealed carry permit in Texas are described in Chapter 411 of the Texas Government Code. Obtaining a concealed handgun license in Texas is not difficult if you meet the statutory eligibility criteria. Convicted criminals and individuals with psychiatric disorders that impair judgment are ineligible to receive a permit in Texas.

• 1

  Meet the eligibility qualifications. You must be at least 21 years old, not be a convicted felon or fugitive, have a clean criminal history for at least the previous five years and not be of unsound mind in order to receive a concealed carry permit in Texas. Additionally, you must not be the subject of a protective order, delinquent in paying child support or government fines, and you must not be chemically dependent. You must also meet all the federal NICS requirements for purchasing a handgun.

• 2

  Complete training. You must successfully complete a training program with a Texas Department of Public Safety-approved trainer. The course will be 10 to 15 hours, and includes both a written portion and a practical demonstration of 50 rounds fired from a .32 caliber revolver or greater at various distances. You must receive at least a score of 70 percent on each part of the test to satisfy the training requirement.

• 3

  Mail in your application. You must submit an application for concealed handgun licensing, form CHL-78A, to the Texas Department of Public Safety. Your one-page application must be accompanied by a current photo, the photo holder form, a fingerprint form taken by the county sheriff, a signed affidavit concerning knowledge of the laws (form CHL-86) and the application fee of $140 (as of 2010).