Updated September 1, 2023.
Texas LTC Renewal in 2023
Is it that time already? Are you asking yourself, “Should I renew my LTC”? If you’re one of the hundreds of thousands of Texans who obtained their Texas License to Carry a Handgun (“LTC”) in the past five years, it may be time to renew.
Another important question is, with the passage of Texas Constitutional Carry (permitless carry), is renewing your Texas LTC a good idea in 2023? The short answer is “yes.”
Even though Texas is a permitless carry state renewing your LTC is a good idea. As a matter of fact, we’re going to cover what you need to know to keep your LTC up to date, so you can continue to protect yourself and your loved ones without interruption.
Where to Renew Your LTC
Thankfully, renewing your LTC has never been easier, and there is no longer an in-person class required for renewal. You can renew your LTC online on the Texas Department of Public Safety (“DPS”) website: HERE.
Pro TIP: Complete an LTC renewal application before applying online to quickly navigate the questions online. Handgun Renewal Application: HERE.
Supporting Documentation To Renew
When renewing online, you will need to complete and upload some documentation.
- The LTC-85 is the Authorization for Release of Records Affidavit: HERE.
- The LTC-86 is the Knowledge of Laws and Eligibility Affidavit: HERE.
Fingerprints and Photograph
The DPS will use your existing fingerprints and photograph on file to renew your Texas LTC. However, sometimes the quality of the prints originally submitted no longer meets the State or FBI standards. If the DPS cannot use the fingerprints on file, you will be notified and asked to obtain a new set of prints along with instructions.
Cost
Generally, the cost for an LTC renewal is $40. However, Texas law provides some discounts under certain conditions.
$40 – Standard Renewal
$35 – Senior Citizen (60+) or Indigent.
$25 – Juvenile Probation Officer, Supervision Officer, Veteran (Honorably Discharged), Former Reserve Law Enforcement Officer, Non-Felony Prosecutor, Active Judge, or Retired Judge.
$0 – Active Military, Active Texas Military Member, Active Texas Peace Officer, Active Railroad Peace Officer, Active Special Ranger of the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, Correctional Officer currently employed by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, County Jailer, Honorably Retired Texas Peace Officer, Retired Railroad Peace Officer, Retired Special Ranger of the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, Retired Federal Officer, or Felony Prosecuting Attorney.
Eligibility
Eligibility is still key, and here is why. A person renewing their LTC must still meet the eligibility requirements to be qualified for renewal. The eligibility requirements are found in Texas Government Code Sec. 411.172. If you haven’t had any changes in eligibility, you shouldn’t have any issues. If you have experienced an arrest, conviction, etc., you may be required to provide additional documentation.
The Old-Fashioned Way
While you are likely to experience extra wait time, an LTC can be renewed by mail.
To renew by mail, you must print off and complete (along with any other required documentation):
- The Handgun Licensing Renewal Application: HERE.
- The LTC-85 is the Authorization for Release of Records Affidavit: HERE.
- The LTC-86 is the Knowledge of Laws and Eligibility Affidavit: HERE.
- The Application Fee (Accepted forms of payment are: Money Order, Personal Check, or Cashier’s Check.
Mail to: Regulatory Services Division
MSC 0245 Texas Department of Public Safety
P.O. Box 15888
Austin, Texas 78761-5888
Conclusion
We here at Walker & Taylor, PLLC, want all Texas LTC holders to stay on the right side of the law, and we encourage everyone to keep their LTCs valid. It can make all the difference in a lawful self-defense incident. We are well-versed in Texas firearms-related crimes, complex self-defense issues, and other weapons charges. If you are ever involved in a self-defense incident, let us help you navigate the criminal justice system and ensure the protection of your Constitutional rights. If you are under investigation for criminal charges, contact us for a free case evaluation.
Author: Richard D. Hayes II
