Frequently Asked Questions
What does concealed mean? Can’t I carry my handgun in plain view?
No. The weapon can’t be visible, and its presence can’t be discernible through ordinary observation.
Where are you located?
We are located in Northwest Houston, on Hwy 290. See the Directions page for directions to the class and a map.
How much are your classes?
Our classes cost $115 for New Applicants and $75 for Renewal Applicants. See our Class Information for details on what these prices include.
Can I qualify with my own gun?
Yes! Attendees are encouraged to use their own gun to qualify, since they will be using that gun for protection. However, remember that the minimum caliber required for the course is 9mm (for automatic) or .38 (for revolver).
How much does a concealed handgun license cost?
The State fee for applying for a license is $140. This fee is lower for indigent residents, senior citizens, and peace officers. If you add to that the $115 fee for the class, your total cost is only $255.
How long will my license be valid?
Your license will be valid for fours years from your next birthday. At that point, you can renew your license for $70 in state fees and $75 for the class. That brings your total renewal cost to only $145!
Are there restrictions on where I can and can’t take my handgun?
Yes. Handguns are prohibited in such places as schools, hospitals, government buildings and places of worship.
Can I take my gun into other states?
Texas currently has reciprocity agreements with Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, and Wyoming. Before traveling, license holders should educate themselves about laws in other states that govern where and when they can legally carry their concealed handguns. For more information, check out our Links page.
What type of gun will I be able to carry?
After receiving your license from the DPS, you are allowed to carry any type of legal handgun, as long as it is concealed.
What is the Brady Law?
The Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act, also known as the Brady Law, was signed into law on November 30, 1993. The law mandated the implementation of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), which is a national system that checks available records on persons who may be disqualified from receiving firearms.
How does the Brady Law apply to me if I have a Concealed Handgun License?
The Brady Law stipulates that licensed concealed handgun carriers in certain states (including Texas) are not required to have a NICS background check run on them prior to the purchase of a handgun. For more information, check out our Links page.