Why You Should Get Your License to Carry (LTC) in Texas
Empowerment, Legal Protection, and Peace of Mind for Responsible Gun Owners
1. Legal Protection & Peace of Mind
While Texas permits constitutional carry, having an LTC provides additional legal protections and benefits:
- Expanded Carry Locations: LTC holders can legally carry in more places, including certain businesses that prohibit unlicensed carry.
- Reciprocity: Enjoy legal carry in over 30 other states that recognize Texas LTCs.
- Law Enforcement Interactions: LTC holders often experience smoother interactions during traffic stops and other encounters.
- Federal Compliance: Under the Gun-Free School Zones Act (GFSZA), only individuals licensed by the state are exempt from the prohibition of carrying firearms within 1,000 feet of school zones.
2. Understanding the Gun-Free School Zones Act (GFSZA)
The GFSZA makes it a federal offense to knowingly possess a firearm within 1,000 feet of a school zone, with specific exceptions:
- Licensed Individuals: Those with a state-issued LTC are exempt from this restriction.
- Private Property: The law does not apply to firearms on private property not part of school grounds.
- Unloaded and Secured Firearms: Firearms that are unloaded and in a locked container or firearms rack in a vehicle are exempt citeturn0search4.
Having an LTC ensures you’re compliant with federal laws, especially in areas where school zones are prevalent.
3. Spike in Unlawful Carry Convictions – Over 250% Increase
Since Texas enacted permitless carry in September 2021, many individuals have unknowingly violated carry laws, leading to a sharp rise in convictions for unlawful carry.
📈 Here’s what the data from the Texas Department of Public Safety shows:
- 2018: 1,200 convictions
- 2019: 1,150 convictions
- 2020: 1,059 convictions
➡️ Total (3 years prior to permitless carry): ~3,409 convictions - 2021: 6,000 convictions
- 2022: 2,164 convictions
- 2023: 2,243 convictions
- 2024: 2,321 convictions
➡️ Total (first 4 years under permitless carry): ~12,728 convictions
🔴 That’s an increase of over 270% when comparing the three years before permitless carry (2018–2020) to the same length of time after (2021–2024).
This dramatic rise shows that permitless carry can lead to serious legal consequences if individuals are not fully informed about where and how they can legally carry. A License to Carry (LTC) not only helps you stay compliant but also gives you the training and legal understanding to avoid becoming part of this statistic.
4. Comprehensive Training & Confidence
The LTC course offers in-depth education on:
- Use of Force Laws: Understanding when and how force can be legally applied.
- Texas Penal Code 9 & 46: Detailed explanations of relevant statutes.
- Non-Violent Dispute Resolution: Techniques to de-escalate situations.
- Gun Safety Fundamentals: Emphasis on the Four Cardinal Rules of Gun Safety.
Training with a certified instructor like Walt Mayfield ensures you’re well-prepared and confident in your responsibilities as a firearm carrier.
5. Reciprocity – Travel with Confidence
Texas LTC holders benefit from reciprocity agreements with over 30 states, allowing for legal carry across state lines. Without an LTC, your ability to carry legally is restricted to Texas and is subject to varying local laws.
6. Streamlined Firearm Purchases
An LTC can expedite the firearm purchasing process:
- Bypassing NICS Checks: LTC holders may be exempt from the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) when purchasing firearms from licensed dealers in Texas.
- Reduced Wait Times: Streamlined transactions lead to quicker acquisitions.
7. Professionalism & Responsibility
Holding an LTC demonstrates a commitment to responsible gun ownership. It’s particularly beneficial for:
- Church Safety Team Members
- Security Officers
- Business Owners
- Family Protectors
An LTC signifies that you’ve undergone rigorous training and are dedicated to upholding safety standards.
8. Convenient Online Learning & In-Person Qualification
Train Protect Defend offers a flexible learning experience:
- Online Coursework: Complete the LTC course at your own pace.
- In-Person Proficiency Test: Schedule your shooting proficiency test at 407 Gun Club in Argyle, Texas.
Proficiency Test Details:
- Benchrest Shooting: No drawing from a holster required.
- Safety Emphasis: Strict adherence to the Four Rules of Gun Safety.
- Private Lessons: Available for those needing additional preparation.
Ready to Get Your LTC?
Join the numerous students who have trained with Walt Mayfield, a top-rated instructor with over 400 five-star reviews. Whether you’re new to self-defense or enhancing your skills, obtaining your LTC is a pivotal step toward empowerment and preparedness.
Register today at www.trainprotectdefend.com
Let’s train. Let’s protect. Let’s defend.
– Walt Mayfield
Texas LTC Instructor, CPR/First Aid Educator, Faith-Based Trainer
