Carrying Firearms in Schools and on Texas College Campuses

K-12 schools are firm no-go zones. Public universities have a different set of rules under campus carry law.

Schools are treated separately from other prohibited locations under Texas Penal Code Section 46.03. Rules differ between K-12 and higher education.

K-12 schools

Firearms are prohibited on all K-12 school premises, in school buses, and at school-sponsored events unless the person is authorized by the school district or law. This applies regardless of LTC. Federal Gun-Free School Zones Act adds a separate federal layer.

Authorized school personnel

Some Texas school districts run a “school marshal” or “guardian” program where designated employees are authorized to carry after specific training. Individual approval is district-specific. Ordinary LTC holders are not covered by these programs.

Public colleges and universities

Texas SB 11, “campus carry,” took effect in 2016 and allows LTC holders 21+ to concealed carry on public college and university campuses in Texas, with limitations. Open carry on campus is generally prohibited.

Limits on campus carry

• Concealed only. Open carry is prohibited on college campus premises.
• Individual institutions may designate specific “gun-free” areas within campus, dorms, some labs, patient care facilities, and similar.
• Athletic events, and areas where alcohol is served, may be off-limits.
• Each institution publishes its policy. Read it before you carry on campus.

Private universities

Private universities in Texas can opt out of campus carry and most have. Check the institution’s posted policy.

Permitless carry on campus

Constitutional carry does NOT authorize campus carry. Only Texas LTC holders 21+ have the statutory authorization to carry on public university premises, subject to institutional rules.

Bottom line: K-12 is off-limits. Public university campus carry is LTC-only, concealed only, and subject to campus-specific rules. Private universities usually prohibit entirely.

Stay safe. Semper Fi.
Gunny

Straight talk: This is education, not legal advice. Gun law changes. Consult a Texas attorney for your specific situation, and always confirm current rules with the Texas Department of Public Safety and the ATF.