Hold Onto Your Stetsons, It's Texas LTC Renewal Time!
Howdy, partners! That there piece of plastic in your wallet giving you the right to pack heat legally? Yeah, that Texas License To Carry (LTC), formerly known as your CHL (hold onto those cowboy hats for a sec, we'll get to that later). Anyway, that trusty LTC needs a little TLC, you see, because every five years it's time to renew that bad boy. Don't worry, renewing your LTC ain't harder than wrangling a greased watermelon at a county fair. Here's what you need to know:
The Great CHL to LTC Name Change: A Moment of Silence for Our Fallen Acronym
We all knew and loved the CHL. It was catchy, it was familiar. But then, in 2023, the Texas Legislature, bless their bureaucratic hearts, decided to switch things up and call it LTC instead. Look, some folks say it's because "concealed" wasn't quite specific enough, while others whisper it's a plot by Big Leather to sell more holsters. Whatever the reason, just remember: LTC = CHL, CHL = LTC. It's the same trusty sidearm guardian, just with a new fancy name.
Alright, Alright, Alright, Let's Get Down to Brass Tacks: Renewing Your LTC
Step 1: Check Your Expiration Date (Unless You Live Under a Rock)
First things first, partner. Grab your LTC, blow the dust off it (unless you're one of those fancy holster aficionados), and check that expiration date. You got a good year after it expires to renew, but any longer and you gotta start the whole application process over. Don't be that guy at the rodeo who shows up with a ten-gallon hat full of expired permits.
Step 2: The Online Frontier: Your New Best Friend
Texas has embraced the 21st century, y'all! Head on over to the Texas Department of Public Safety website (
Step 3: Kick Back, Relax, and Enjoy the Lone Star State (While You Wait)
Once you've submitted your online application, it's time to two-step your way to patience. The DPS will process your renewal, and within a few weeks, your shiny new LTC will be moseying on over to your mailbox.
Bonus Tip: Don't Lose That Pretty Piece of Plastic! Seriously, a replacement LTC ain't cheap.
How-dy Partner, You Got Questions?
Alright, since we're all about helpfulness here, let's answer a few quick questions you might have:
How to Know if My LTC is Expiring Soon? Check the darn thing! But seriously, the DPS will usually send you a renewal notice beforehand.
How Much Does it Cost to Renew My LTC? The current fee is $48, but hey, prices change faster than a Texas two-step champion, so check the DPS website for the latest info.
How Long Does it Take to Renew My LTC? Typically, it takes a few weeks for processing and mailing.
How Long is a Renewed LTC Valid For? Five years, partner. Then it's time for this whole rodeo all over again!
How Can I Avoid All This Renewal Fuss Altogether? Well, you could move to a state without LTC requirements, but then where's the fun in that? Besides, who wants to live somewhere you can't wear your ten-gallon hat with pride?
So there you have it, folks! Renewing your Texas LTC is a breeze. Now get out there, practice your draw (safely, of course!), and keep on enjoying the freedom of the Lone Star State!
