Texas: A Gun-Friendly State

Before we dive into the laws, it's important to note that Texas is one of the most gun-friendly states in the country. In fact, 36% of households contain at least one firearm in the state of Texas. With its size, it's no wonder this state has the highest number of registered weapons in the country.

Who Can Own a Firearm?

In Texas, any person 18 years or older may own a firearm. However, if you want to buy a handgun from an FFL (Federal Firearms License) dealer, you must be 21 years old.

Since 2021, you are not required to get a license to obtain a firearm in Texas. However, you cannot have any felonies or certain misdemeanors, be restricted from possessing a firearm, or be intoxicated.

Private Sales and Background Checks

Texas is one of the 30 states that do not require background checks for private sales. You can purchase a firearm privately as long as both parties are 18 or older.

If you're purchasing a firearm through an FFL dealer, you will need to undergo a background check per federal law.

Open Carry Laws

In Texas, you are not required to have a license to open carry a handgun. To carry a handgun without a permit under constitutional carry, you must be at least 21 years old, have the handgun in a holster, and not be prohibited from possessing firearms due to certain criminal convictions.

A federal judge ruled that it was unconstitutional to prohibit 18-20-year-olds from open carrying. So if you are at least 18, you will not be prosecuted for open carrying.

You may also openly carry long guns as long as they are not displayed in a way 'calculated to alarm' others.

Places Where Carrying is Prohibited

There are still some places where you cannot carry any firearm, such as courthouses, schools, and correctional facilities.

Stand Your Ground and Castle Doctrine

Texas is a stand your ground state, which means that if you are attacked by another person, you are not required to flee from the other party.

Texas also has the castle doctrine, which allows residents to use deadly force to defend themselves, their family, or their property against attackers or intruders.

Silencers (Suppressors) in Texas

Hearing damage is a common consequence of shooting a firearm, but silencers (also known as suppressors) can help reduce noise levels by 20-35 decibels.

Suppressors are perfectly legal in Texas, and you don't need a special license to obtain one. However, if you want to purchase a suppressor in Texas, you need to purchase a tax stamp for $200 for each suppressor you wish to buy.

Moving to the Gun-Free State of Texas

Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of the gun laws in Texas. If you're looking to move to Texas, specifically the Dallas area, make sure to reach out to the Living in Dallas Texas Team for assistance with your move.