Texas DPS continues efforts to streamline the application process. However, prior to registering online, be sure you meet the eligibility requirements. Pretty much, you must be at least 21 years of age or at least 18 years of age if currently serving in or honorably discharged from the military, have a fairly clean criminal record, and current on your child support, student loans and state taxes and fees.
As of May 2010, DPS has changed the registration process. The new online registration process eliminates nearly all of your paperwork. You'll need to register with DPS either before or after taking your class, but a packet is no longer required to attend a class. In addition to the online registration, DPS will give you to option of setting an appointment for electronic finger prints at an additional cost. We'll still take care of your photos or you can bring your own. When Registering online you will need: -Social security number -Valid driver license or identification card, -Current demographic, address, contact, and employment information, -Residential and employment information for the last five years (new users only), -Information regarding any psychiatric, drug, alcohol, or criminal history (new users only), -Valid email address, and Valid credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or American Express) ALL FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE
For Class:
You'll need to bring your weapon (minimum .32 caliber, preferably semi-automatic), writing pad and black ballpoint pen. Ammo may be purchased at the range (one day), or you can bring your own BRASS cased ammo; no steel, aluminum or reloads. (Minimum 50 rounds-one day / Minimum 200 rounds-two day)
Please be aware the Texas CHL class does not teach you to shoot. The proficiency test is a test, not training. You will be expected to be able to safely and accurately operate your weapon. If you're unsure of your skills, please call us to set up a private lesson to prepare you for the test or register for the two day course.
We'll give you an hour for lunch (can work through lunch, the choice is yours), and you'll have several short breaks during the day.
The class is a full 10 hours, as required by DPS, from a licensed Concealed Handgun Instructor. In this class, you'll learn about: Non-Violent Dispute Resolution Use of Force Use of Deadly Force Handgun Restrictions/Places prohibited Safe Storage and Handling of firearms Eligibility Requirements All relevant Texas Penal Codes Concealed Handgun Techniques Course Review Final Examination
You have plenty if time after taking the CHL certification course and receiving the certification (form CHL-100) from us to submit your completed CHL packet to DPS, so there is no rush if you need more time to send your packet for any reason. It's totally up to you!
At the end of the classroom portion, we take a written test. The test is 50 questions and multiple choice. We cover all of the material that you'll see on the test, then do a thorough test review before the exam. While it's not necessary to prepare for the test in advance, a little knowledge never hurt anybody. If you'd like to bone up on the laws we'll be discussing, click here.
During the class, we photograph you, and complete the necessary paperwork. Unless you need to gather supporting documentation, you'll be ready to drop your application in the mail and get the background process moving when you leave the class.
Once you send your packet to the state, you get the exciting task of waiting. DPS is currently turning around applications in 30 to 60 days, but this is always subject to change. The sooner you get your packet in the mail, the sooner you'll have plastic in hand!
The class is a full 10 hours, as required by DPS, from a licensed Concealed Handgun Instructor. In this class, you'll learn about:
