Texas License to Carry Classes
The state-mandated course required to obtain a Texas License to Carry. The classroom portion is done entirely online.
texascarryacademy.com/vendors/mckinney-firearms-training-llc/
DO NOT try to log in.
After finishing that, you would come to the range for an hour for a Range Training module, and the Proficiency test.
Also required, separately, are a background check and fingerprinting. We will guide you through the entire process.
Please note that this is not a class for beginners. You need to be able to load and shoot a handgun, without assistance.
Cost: $85.00 (both parts combined)
About the LTC process
1. Know how to shoot already, and own a gun, any caliber. You should know how to safely handle a gun, and load and unload it. You will be tested on basic shooting skills. I can teach a beginner enough in one session to pass the Proficiency test, but you won't learn that in the LTC class.
2. Sign up for the license training class. You will do the class work from home, then come to the range for the range training and Proficiency (it is not that hard). Send the Certificate of Training and any items of supporting documentation listed on your checklist to the DPS.
3. Visit the Department of Public Safety website to start the application process and pay your fee. There are several types of discounts applicable to the state fee. If you qualify for any, you may have to submit other documentation.
4. Also, at that time, you will be given the option of scheduling fingerprints. Do that at this time. It is inexpensive ($10.00) and quick (computerized), and there are several convenient places to have it done. They will submit the fingerprints for you, electronically.
5. Upload your Certificate of Training to the DPS website (if you can scan them into a PDF).
6. Wait. The average time is 2-3 weeks. They process about 2000 each month.
The caliber requirement has now been eliminated, so people are now allowed to use pistols chambered in
such exotic calibers as 5.7x28 and .17 HMR, although these are either rare or expensive. A more common
caliber in this range is the iconic .22LR. There are many .22 pistols and revolvers to choose from,
but many of them are very small, like the Beretta "Bobcat". Something the size of a cell phone is
not a good choice for a shooting test. If you elect to go this way, I would recommend a longer
gun, like one of these:
* Browning Buckmark
* Ruger Target (Mark IV recommended)
* S&W Victory
* Glock 44
Keep in mind that the .22 is still not generally considered to have sufficient stopping power for
self defense. Another option, though harder to find, is the .22 Magnum (.22 WMR), which is very close to
the .380 ACP in FBI penetration tests.
Please do not bring a single-action .22 revolver! Those are distinguished
by a loading gate on the right side, instead of a cylinder that swings out for loading. People bringing a .22
for the Proficiency are usually not experienced enough to understand the danger in loading a single-action
revolver, and I do not want to take the risk.
Submit your email for notices of upcoming classes. Opt out any time. Addresses are purged after 60 days.