Show All Answers

1. Where can I open carry?

A License Holder may openly carry a properly holstered (belt or shoulder holster) firearm anywhere a license holder has previously been permitted to carry a concealed firearm.

2. Where can I NOT open carry?

Any place that is prohibited under the concealed handgun law also applies to the licensed open carry of a firearm.

3. Who can ask to see my license to carry?

You must present your License To Carry when requested by a peace officer or magistrate.

4. What weapons are not allowed to open carry?

Any weapon prohibited by law (Texas Penal Code Chapter 46, Prohibited Weapons).

5. Do public schools have to post "no carry" signs or is it just understood they are a "no carry" zone?

No signage is required. A law already exists that prohibits weapons on school premises (Texas Penal Code Chapter 46, Places Weapons Prohibited).

6. Can private businesses opt-out of open carry?

Yes, by posting appropriate signage (Texas Penal Code 30.07) or providing oral or written notice that the carrying of firearms is prohibited in their establishment.

7. What should a citizen do if a business tells them they cannot have their gun exposed but don't have the prohibited sign posted?

The business owner has the right to limit or prohibit the carrying of firearms inside their establishment. If a license holder is asked to leave by the business owner or an individual with the apparent authority to act on behalf of the owner, the citizen shall do as requested and leave the premises.

8. Is there a limit to the number of firearms you can carry?

The law does not specify limitations on the number of handguns.

9. Can an individual carry a handgun in a private vehicle?

An unlicensed individual may carry a concealed handgun inside a private vehicle. A License Holder may openly carry a handgun in a belt or shoulder holster or carry a concealed handgun inside a private vehicle.

10. What is campus carry?

It is a separate law going in effect Aug. 1, 2016, that allows concealed carry on college campuses as prescribed by the law.

11. Does this change the law for open carrying of long arms and black powder guns?

No.

12. Would a license holder have to conceal a weapon if they are dropping off a child at a Elgin ISD school or facility? (Not actually entering the premise)

No, so long as they remain in the permitted areas as specified in the statute. (Texas Penal Code Chapter 46).

13. If I currently have a Texas Concealed Handgun License (CHL), will DPS issue me a new License to Carry Handgun (LTC) when HB 910 (open carry) becomes effective?

Only if requested by the License Holder or upon renewal.