This past weekend, my wife and I finally checked something off our list—we took a License to Carry (LTC) class together here in Texas. Whether you’re brand new to firearms or just want the legal option to carry in more places, this course is a great way to boost your confidence and responsibility as a gun owner.
If you’ve been curious about getting your LTC, here’s what to expect from the class—and why we’re glad we did it together.
The day started in the classroom, and despite what we expected, it wasn’t just dry legal talk. Our instructor kept it engaging while walking us through the important stuff:
Texas requires at least 4 to 6 hours of classroom instruction. Ours was about 5, and it flew by. At the end, there was a 25-question multiple-choice test. It wasn’t hard at all if you paid attention—both of us passed on the first try.
Next came the shooting portion. Texas requires you to shoot 50 rounds, split between distances of 3, 7, and 15 yards, using a standard B-27 silhouette target. You’re scored out of 250 points, and you need a minimum of 175 to pass.
Neither of us are professional marksmen, but we shoot occasionally—and we both did just fine. The instructor gave tips, kept things safe, and let everyone go at a comfortable pace.
Here’s the breakdown:
Pro tip: you don’t have to be perfect. Just be safe, steady, and familiar with your firearm.
Once you pass your LTC course, here’s what happens next in Texas:
Once approved, your plastic LTC card will arrive in the mail—and you’re officially licensed to carry in Texas and over 30 other states that honor Texas reciprocity.
Even though Texas is now a permitless carry state, having an LTC still comes with benefits:
We didn’t just walk away with a certificate. We gained a much deeper understanding of Texas law, our rights, and the real-world responsibilities that come with carrying a firearm.
We also had great conversations afterward—about self-defense, situational awareness, and how we want to train together more often. It was empowering and brought us closer as a couple.
The LTC class wasn’t just informative—it was empowering. If you’re considering getting your license, go for it. It’s a day well spent, and whether you’re doing it for personal protection, legal peace of mind, or just as the next step in your journey as a responsible gun owner, you’ll walk away better prepared and more confident.
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