The age answer has two parts right now, and both are current. This page explains what Texas DPS does today, why some official pages read differently, and where the Online Texas LTC Class fits.
Some links on this page may be affiliate links. First Shot Training may receive compensation when you enroll through those links, at no additional cost to you.
Quick Answer: How Old Do You Have to Be to Get a Texas LTC
Most Texas LTC applicants are 21 or older. But Texas DPS says it will no longer turn down an otherwise eligible applicant just because that person is 18, 19, or 20. A federal court ordered that change. If you are under 21, read the current DPS Eligibility FAQ before you apply. Also know that other official Texas pages still say 21, and there is a reason for that.
Table of Contents
What Texas DPS Currently Does
The Texas DPS Eligibility FAQ answers this question directly. DPS says a federal district court ruled against the eligibility rules that kept otherwise eligible 18-to-20-year-olds from getting a license. DPS can no longer apply those rules. DPS then says it will not deny an application only because the applicant is 18 to 20.
The case DPS names is Firearms Policy Coalition, Inc. et al. v. Steven McCraw, et al., No. 4:21-cv-1245-P. You can read the DPS answer yourself. It is question 9 on the Texas DPS Eligibility FAQ.
Why Some Texas Sources May Look Different
You will still find current, official Texas pages that say 21. They are not stale, and they are not wrong.
Here is why. The Texas statute itself still sets 21 as the general age. Texas Government Code Section 411.172(a)(2) says an applicant must be at least 21 years of age. That line has not changed. The court order changed what DPS may do with an application from someone who is 18 to 20.
So a page about the statute and a page about DPS practice can read differently and both be accurate. The Texas State Law Library guide to the license to carry is one example. It was updated on July 10, 2026. It still says Texans normally must be at least 21.
First Shot Training is not a law firm. If your plans depend on this, ask a Texas attorney.
What You Should Verify
If you are 18, 19, or 20 and thinking about applying, check these before you spend money:
- Read question 9 on the Texas DPS Eligibility FAQ on the day you plan to apply. This answer is the one that governs what DPS does.
- Check the rest of the eligibility rules, not just age. Age is one item on a longer list.
- Remember that federal rules about buying a handgun are separate from the Texas license. Those are covered further down this page.
- Check the date on whatever you read. Court orders can be appealed or changed.
Last verified: July 2026. This answer depends on a federal court order and on current DPS practice. Both can change. Check the DPS Eligibility FAQ before you apply.
Being Old Enough Does Not Mean Automatically Eligible
Age is only one requirement. Applicants must meet the other state and federal eligibility rules. DPS runs the background review and makes the licensing decision. For the full picture, read Texas LTC eligibility and the Texas LTC requirements.
Take the next step: Start your Online Texas LTC Class today with First Shot Training.
Can an 18-to-20-Year-Old Take the Online Class?
An eligible adult who intends to pursue the Texas LTC can complete the approved classroom education online. The course does not decide licensing eligibility. Review current DPS guidance before assuming the state will issue a license. To see how the class fits with the other steps, read how the Texas LTC process works.
What About Federal Firearm Purchase Rules?
Licensing and the federal rules governing firearm purchases are not the same thing. An LTC does not erase federal age restrictions or other federal firearm laws. Do not treat the ability to apply for a Texas LTC as a statement about a separate purchase transaction.
Why Education Is Especially Valuable for Younger Adults
A structured LTC course covers law, safe handling, nonviolent dispute resolution, and safe storage. If you are a younger adult and legally eligible, take the education seriously. That matters more than getting a card quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an 18-year-old apply for a Texas LTC?
Current Texas DPS guidance says the Department will not deny an otherwise eligible 18-to-20-year-old solely on the basis of age. Verify the latest DPS guidance before applying.
Why do some websites still say 21?
Because the statute still says 21. Texas Government Code Section 411.172(a)(2) has not changed, and published guides describe the statute. The court order changed what DPS may do with an application, not the text of the law.
Does being 18 automatically make someone eligible?
No. All other state and federal eligibility requirements still apply.
Can someone under 21 take the online LTC class?
The classroom education is available to adults pursuing the license, but course completion does not determine whether DPS will issue the license.
Does a Texas LTC change federal purchase-age laws?
No. Licensing eligibility and federal firearm-purchase rules are separate.
Official Texas Sources
For current, authoritative details, always confirm with the official Texas sources below:
- Texas DPS, Eligibility FAQs
- Texas DPS, Form LTC-16
- Texas Government Code Section 411.172, eligibility for a license to carry
- Texas State Law Library: Gun Laws, License to Carry
Age rule note: The answer on this page depends on a federal court order and on how DPS currently handles applications, not only on the words of the statute. A court order and an agency practice can both change. Confirm your own situation with Texas DPS before you apply.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. First Shot Training is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. While we make every reasonable effort to ensure the information we publish is accurate and up to date at the time of publication, laws, regulations, licensing requirements, reciprocity agreements, and government policies may change without notice. You are responsible for verifying current information with official government sources before relying on any information contained in this article. If you have questions regarding how the law applies to your specific circumstances, consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
