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If you have an LTC can you carry in neighboring states? Reciprocity Laws

Under Texas law, gun owners who want to open carry are required to obtain an LTC (License to Carry) which is issued to qualified applicants who are at least 21 years old or 18 for active-duty military. Because the law no longer requires your firearms to be concealed, Texas changed the licensing name from CHL (Concealed Handgun License) to LTC (License to Carry) in January of 2016. Obtaining a LTC requires a four to six-hour training course, as well as passing both a written exam and a shooting proficiency demonstration.

Although you can open carry while in Texas with an LTC, gun owners who travel may have open questions around LTC reciprocity. If you are traveling, which states recognize your License to Carry? According to Ft. Bend County attorney Shawn McDonald, a majority of states recognize Texas’ License to Carry, but you’ll need to do your research beforehand to check. The Texas Department of Public Safety is a reputable source to obtain a map of LTC reciprocity states. Most states do recognize Texans with an LTC, like its contiguous states and those along the Texas to Florida coastline.

It’s important to be aware of the existing state and federal restrictions on licenses to carry, such as federal buildings or sporting events. There are also stipulations against open carry in schools, hospitals, airports, and more. Do note this: Firearms must be carried in accordance with the laws of the state you are visiting. Be sure to check the laws of the other state before traveling there with your firearms.