Young Adults, 18 to 20, and Texas Handgun Carry After Recent Court Rulings
Federal court decisions in 2022 and 2023 changed the picture for 18 to 20-year-olds carrying handguns in Texas. Here’s the current lay of the land.
Historically, both federal law and Texas law set 21 as the minimum age to purchase a handgun from a federally licensed dealer and to obtain a Texas License to Carry. Recent litigation has shifted the ground under 18 to 20-year-old adults.
The court decisions
In August 2022, a federal district court in Firearms Policy Coalition v. McCraw held that Texas cannot enforce its 21-year-old minimum age against qualified 18 to 20-year-old adults seeking to carry handguns. Texas DPS subsequently changed its LTC application processing to allow qualifying adults 18 and older to apply.
What this means for permitless carry
Under current Texas practice following the ruling, adults 18 and older who are not otherwise prohibited may carry a handgun in most public places under Texas permitless-carry rules, subject to the same location restrictions that apply to older adults.
What it doesn’t change
- You still cannot legally buy a handgun from an FFL under federal law until age 21.
- You can inherit, be gifted, or private-transfer a handgun at 18.
- Rifles and shotguns can be purchased from FFLs at 18 as before.
- Federal, state, and location-specific prohibitions still apply.
Getting an LTC as an 18 to 20-year-old
Following the ruling, Texas DPS processes applications from qualifying adults 18 and up. You still complete the LTC classroom instruction, pass the state test, complete the shooting proficiency test, and meet all other qualification requirements. Confirm current DPS practice before applying.
Common-sense recommendation
The legal ability to carry doesn’t equal readiness. If you’re 18 to 20 and new to firearms, take real training before you strap up. An LTC class is a good foundation. A defensive pistol course is a better one.
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.
