How to Get a Concealed Weapon Permit in Austin

Texans love the Second Amendment and always have. And though Comanches and John Wesley Hardin have largely ceased to be a threat to the public safety, many Texans still like to have a firearm for protection--sometimes even on their person. If you live in Austin and want to to carry a concealed weapon, you'll need a permit for it. Here's how to get one.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Fill out a concealed weapon application, which you can obtain at any Department of Public Safety (DPS) office or gun store.
2. Submit the form, and the DPS will mail you an application packet. The thickness of this packet should show you that the state does not regard the granting of concealed weapons permits lightly. You'll need to get fingerprinted, photographed and make copies of your driver's license. You'll also learn where you can and cannot carry a concealed weapon.
3. Take a handgun course. These run from 10 to 15 hours and must be conducted by an instructor who has been trained and certified by the DPS. If you pass the course, you will be given a certificate to send to the DPS. Courses may be taken with such organizations as KR Training, Statewide Training Academy and Austin Regional Firearms Academy or through major gun stores.
4. Pay a registration fee: $170 for most people, less if you're elderly or indigent or if you are or have been a law enforcement or judicial officer and nothing if you're an elected felony prosecutor.
5. Mail in all these materials, and the DPS will check them and investigate your criminal, medical, psychological and financial history. If you are approved, you should get your license in 60 days. Your initial license is good for 4 years, and any renewed license is good for 5 years.