Can an out-of-state visitor carry a gun in Texas?

Reciprocity agreements

Texas has reciprocity agreements with certain other states for firearm licenses. This means that a firearm license issued in that state will also be recognized in Texas.

The terms of these agreements can vary from state to state. Not all states have reciprocity agreements with Texas. Some states have unilateral agreements with Texas. This usually means that Texas will recognize that state's firearm license but a Texas License to Carry (LTC) may not be recognized in that state. 

You can view a list of states with reciprocity agreements and read through the corresponding agreements on the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)’s website. 

Permitless carry

As of 2021, Texas no longer requires a person to be licensed to carry a handgun. See our Legal FAQ about this, Do I need a license to carry a handgun in Texas?

It is not yet clear how this change affects reciprocity agreements for out-of-state visitors carrying firearms in Texas.

Anyone carrying a firearm in Texas is still subject to other laws and restrictions on carrying a firearm in Texas. The library has a Carry of Firearms page on our Gun Laws guide with more information on state and federal laws. If you plan on visiting Texas, you may want to review these laws before you visit. 

LTC benefits

Texans can still apply for an LTC. Having a Texas LTC may be beneficial for anyone who wishes to carry a firearm in another state that has a reciprocity agreement with Texas. DPS has more information about the benefits of getting an LTC in Texas on its website.

The law can be complex, so you may wish to talk to an attorney if you aren’t sure whether you can legally carry a gun in Texas. For more information on finding an attorney, please see the library's Legal Help page.

Related FAQs & Guides

FAQs

• Do I need a license to carry a handgun in Texas?
• Can I carry a gun in my car?

Guides

• Gun Laws