Q:        Where can I not carry my handgun?

A:        Handguns and other weapons cannot be carried at school or on school buses, at polling places, in courts and court offices, at racetracks, at secured airport areas or  within 1000 feet of the premises of an execution on the day of an execution.  The law also specifically prohibits handguns from businesses where alcohol is sold if more than half of their revenue is from the sale of alcohol for on premises consumption and from locations where high school, college, or professional sporting events are taking place.  You must not carry handguns in hospitals or nursing homes, amusement parks, or places of worship or government meetings if signs or posted prohibiting them.  Businesses may also post signs prohibiting handguns on their premises based on criminal trespass laws.

Q:        Can I carry a handgun if I am drinking alcohol?

A:        “Carrying” when drinking is not prohibited, but it is a criminal offense to carry while intoxicated.

Q:        Do police officers have the right to disarm me?

A:        Yes.  If a peace officer reasonably believes a safety risks exists, the officer may disarm you.

Q:        What does concealed mean?

A:        “Concealed” means that the weapon cannot be visible, and that its presence cannot be discernable through ordinary observation.  It is a criminal offense for a license holder to carry a handgun in plain view, or to intentionally fail to conceal the weapon.

Q:        Can I carry a handgun without a license while driving or traveling in a motor vehicle?

A:        Effective September 1, 2007, a person who can legally posses a firearm, may possess or carry a firearm in a motor vehicle (including a recreational vehicle with living quarters) that is owned by or under the lawful control of the person.  However, the firearm must be concealed, the person cannot be engaged in criminal activity, and may not be a member of a “criminal street gang”.  The person may also carry the handgun to and from his vehicle without a license.  See Texas Penal Code 46.02 (a).  However, DPS recommends that you seek the advice of an attorney with any questions regarding the unlicensed carrying of weapons.

Q:If licensed can I carry more than one handgun at a time?

A:        If you can conceal them.  The law does not specify or limit the number of guns you may carry.

Q:        What type of handgun will I be able to carry?

A:        You may carry any type of legal, concealed handgun you are qualified to use.  If you wish to carry a semi-automatic weapon, you must complete your firing range qualification with a semi-automatic.  If you demonstrate handgun proficiency with a semi-automatic handgun, your license also entitles you to carry a revolver.  If you do not wish to carry a semi-automatic, you may qualify with a revolver.