crossorigin="anonymous"> Texas Open Carry Explained | Texas Gun Laws

Open Carry


As of September 1, 2021, HB1927 made it legal in Texas for most people 21 or over to carry a handgun in a holster without a permit both openly and/or concealed – modified from the previous open carry law from 2016 – eliminated the requirement to have a license to carry.

Most people 21 or over may carry a handgun without a license to carry.

This website is not meant to be legal counsel. We are not lawyers.

Q: Can I Open Carry in Texas (in Public)?
A: You can openly carry rifles and shotguns. As of September 1, 2021, HB1927 made it legal in Texas for most people 21 or over to carry a handgun in a holster without a permit both openly and/or concealed – modified from the previous open carry law from 2016 – eliminated the requirement to have a license to carry.

Q: Why Can’t I Open Carry my Handgun in Texas (in Public)?
A: As of September 1, 2021, in Texas for most people 21 or over to carry a handgun in a holster without a permit both openly and/or concealed. Before that, Texas has long had a prohibition on the open display of handguns. This dates back to the days of Cowboys in the “Wild West” era of the 1800s; contrary to public opinion.

Q: Can I Open Carry on my own Property?
A: Yes, you may carry openly on property that you own or that is directly under your control.

Q: Can I Open Carry on Private Land?
A: Yes and No. You can carry openly if you are in the act of hunting or directly en route to your residence which can include a motor vehicle. You cannot openly carry on property that is not yours, even if the owner gives you permission to do so.

Q: I have a CHL, can I Carry Openly?
A: At this time the CHL enables you to carry concealed or in the open.

Q: Can everyone open carry in Texas?
A: No, most minors under the age of 18 cannot, people convicted of various crimes cannot. You must have a license to open carry in Texas

Q: I live out of state, can I open carry in Texas?
A: Yes. There is not residency restriction legally open carry as long as you have a handgun license with Texas reciprocity.