Although having a license to carry will allow you to carry in more locations, Texas is a permitless carry state, which means responsible gun owners have a right to carry their guns with or without a license to carry, or LTC. That being said, there are some locations where you're not permitted to carry your firearm at all. Read on for a rundown of the main places in Texas where you're not able to carry, either with or without an LTC.
Schools
This applies nationwide in pretty much every state. It's a restriction that also applies to school buses. It also extends to places where school-related activities are taking place, which might include buildings and sports fields that aren’t directly on school property.
The College Campus Exception (for Texas)
It's not common to see handguns being carried on college campuses nationwide. However, Texas actually has a law on the books that allows an individual with an LTC to legally carry a handgun on many of the college campuses in the state. Keep in mind the gun must be concealed and the college can restrict which buildings you can carry in.
Court Buildings & Similar Locations
This is another LTC restriction that generally applies everywhere in the country. You're not permitted to carry in courthouses and any other place where similar business takes place (e.g., a magistrate's court or office). Legal offices also tend to restrict or completely prohibit handguns even if you have an LTC. Part of the reason is because legal matters tend to involve emotions and reactions that can be unpredictable at times.
Racetracks & Similar Facilities
You're also not going to be able to carry with or without an LTC when you go to a racetrack in the Lone Star State. This restriction is because of the betting that takes place at a racetrack or similar facility. With betting, emotions run high, and legislatures in Texas determined it would be best to prevent firearms from being carried in such locations.
Hospitals & Medical Offices
Another restriction on carrying firearms even if you have an LTC is at medical facilities in the state. This typically applies to hospitals, medical clinics, walk-in clinics in some instances, and many offices where medical practitioners are located. However, if you have an LTC and no 30.06 or 30.07 sign is posted, you can still carry your handgun.
Establishments that Serve Alcohol
Any establishment that earns 51 percent or more of its revenue from the sale of alcohol for on-site consumption is a prohibited location. This includes all bars and some restaurants. These businesses are required to post “51 percent” signs so you know when the rule applies. However, without an LTC, even if a sign isn’t posted it’s your responsibility to know if you can or cannot carry there. With an LTC, it’s a defense to prosecution if you carry in the establishment and no sign was posted.
Private Property
Whether a private business or someone’s home, private property owners in Texas have the right to prevent firearms from being carried at their location. They must give notice in the form of a sign, in writing, or by verbally informing you. This applies to LTC holders and anyone carrying under permitless carry.
This isn’t a complete list of places where weapons are prohibited in Texas. Please refer to Texas penal code 46.03 for a complete list.
When the time comes for you to obtain your Texas LTC, be sure to select a reputable training facility. Texas LTC Online is dedicated to providing the best firearms instruction available. Gun owners rely on the knowledge of the specialists at Online Texas LTC when they need advice on weapons safety or want to enroll in a Texas licence to carry course. Call us at +1-512-387-7239 right away if you have any questions concerning any element of gun ownership in Texas.
