A valid Texas ID is required for those of you that are fresh from out of state. If you currently hold a CHL please refer to reciprocity rules for your individual state.
Step Zero - Determine Eligability
Texas DPS - Crime Records Service
Visit the above link and fill out the Eligability Quiz to see if you are Eligable for a Texas CHL.
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Step One - Choosing a Class and Instructor
Be forewarned, some CHL instructors will require you to pre-pay your CHL fees to the state, and be in possession of your paperwork packet (mailed following payment) prior to taking the class. Please check with your CHL instructor!
Do so from this link: Texas DPS - Crime Records Service
The first step to a CHL test is to choose an instructor in your area. I would recommend someone that is seasoned and has a strong lecture session. A quality instructor is worth their weight in gold, and as such, don't be afraid to invest a bit more in a class.
This is the DPS list of instructors: http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/administration/crime_records/chl/qualified_instructors.pdf
Things to consider when looking for a class:
- Passport Photos and Finger Prints (Are they included?)
- Range Fees (Are they included?)
- Range Location (Is it near? Indoor or Outdoors?)
- Notary Services
Be aware, class pricing varies and does not include your Texas state licensing fee.
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Step Two - Take Your Class
You will need to bring at least a .32-caliber (8.2mm) revolver or semi-auto handgun and 50 rounds of ammo.
Note: Qualifying with a revolver restricts you to carrying a revolver ONLY. Qualifying with a semi-automatic handgun gives you the option of a revolver or a semi-auto handgun. I highly recommend qualifying with a semi-auto handgun.
The classes vary, but will involve a day long process of lecture and qualification.
You should know the basics of handgun operation and marksmanship prior to entering this class. You will have to undergo a live fire proficiency test where you will be scored.
Lecture will consist of the following:
1. Handgun Handling
2. Non-Violent Dispute
3. Use of Force
4. Other Topics per Instructor
Handgun Proficiency will consist of the following course of fire:
3 Yard Line - 20 Shots:
1 shot in 2 seconds, 5 times
2 shots in 3 seconds, 5 times
5 shots in 10 seconds, once
7 Yard Line - 20 Shots:
5 shots in 10 seconds, once
1 shot in 3 seconds, 5 times
2 shots in 4 seconds, once
3 shots in 6 seconds, once
5 shots in 15 seconds, once
15 Yard Line - 10 Shots:
2 shots in 6 seconds, once
3 shots in 9 seconds, once
5 shots in 15 seconds, once
All shooting is done beginning in the low-ready position with the gun drawn. You do not need a holster, nor do you need to be proficient in drawing from a holster for this course of fire.
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Step Three - Mailing In Your Application
You will need the following in your packet:
1. TR-100 Form (Notification Form from CHL Class)
2. 2 Sets of Passport Photos
3. 2 Sets of Fingerprints (Taken by Law Enforcement Agency Employee)
4. Copy of Valid Texas Drivers License or ID Card
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Step Four - Wait it Out
Wait time varies depending on load at the processing point. Expect roughly 60 days on average.
Step Zero - Determine Eligability
Texas DPS - Crime Records Service
Visit the above link and fill out the Eligability Quiz to see if you are Eligable for a Texas CHL.
---------------------------------------
Step One - Choosing a Class and Instructor
Be forewarned, some CHL instructors will require you to pre-pay your CHL fees to the state, and be in possession of your paperwork packet (mailed following payment) prior to taking the class. Please check with your CHL instructor!
Do so from this link: Texas DPS - Crime Records Service
The first step to a CHL test is to choose an instructor in your area. I would recommend someone that is seasoned and has a strong lecture session. A quality instructor is worth their weight in gold, and as such, don't be afraid to invest a bit more in a class.
This is the DPS list of instructors: http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/administration/crime_records/chl/qualified_instructors.pdf
Things to consider when looking for a class:
- Passport Photos and Finger Prints (Are they included?)
- Range Fees (Are they included?)
- Range Location (Is it near? Indoor or Outdoors?)
- Notary Services
Be aware, class pricing varies and does not include your Texas state licensing fee.
---------------------------------------
Step Two - Take Your Class
You will need to bring at least a .32-caliber (8.2mm) revolver or semi-auto handgun and 50 rounds of ammo.
Note: Qualifying with a revolver restricts you to carrying a revolver ONLY. Qualifying with a semi-automatic handgun gives you the option of a revolver or a semi-auto handgun. I highly recommend qualifying with a semi-auto handgun.
The classes vary, but will involve a day long process of lecture and qualification.
You should know the basics of handgun operation and marksmanship prior to entering this class. You will have to undergo a live fire proficiency test where you will be scored.
Lecture will consist of the following:
1. Handgun Handling
2. Non-Violent Dispute
3. Use of Force
4. Other Topics per Instructor
Handgun Proficiency will consist of the following course of fire:
3 Yard Line - 20 Shots:
1 shot in 2 seconds, 5 times
2 shots in 3 seconds, 5 times
5 shots in 10 seconds, once
7 Yard Line - 20 Shots:
5 shots in 10 seconds, once
1 shot in 3 seconds, 5 times
2 shots in 4 seconds, once
3 shots in 6 seconds, once
5 shots in 15 seconds, once
15 Yard Line - 10 Shots:
2 shots in 6 seconds, once
3 shots in 9 seconds, once
5 shots in 15 seconds, once
All shooting is done beginning in the low-ready position with the gun drawn. You do not need a holster, nor do you need to be proficient in drawing from a holster for this course of fire.
---------------------------------------
Step Three - Mailing In Your Application
You will need the following in your packet:
1. TR-100 Form (Notification Form from CHL Class)
2. 2 Sets of Passport Photos
3. 2 Sets of Fingerprints (Taken by Law Enforcement Agency Employee)
4. Copy of Valid Texas Drivers License or ID Card
---------------------------------------
Step Four - Wait it Out
Wait time varies depending on load at the processing point. Expect roughly 60 days on average.