How do I get a CHL?

Getting a Texas CHL requires taking a course mandated by the State and applying to the Texas Dept. of Public Safety. Currently, you have two options for applying with DPS. You can apply using the new DPS/Texas Online online application that became available on May 1, 2010. The alternative is to use the packets that can be provided on class day. It is strongly recommended that you apply online as it has several advantages, including an expanded application that makes it impossible to leave out required information. This is the primary cause of delays in processing of CHL applications.

If you apply on the DPS/Texas Online Website, you will pay your state license fee by credit card at that time and you have the opportunity to print a check list that identifies all documents you will be required to send to DPS. If this is your first CHL, these documents will include photographs, fingerprints, and any other documents such as your DD-214 if you are claiming a discount for piror military service, disposition documents if you have a prior criminal historhy that is not disqualifying, etc. You will also have to send proof of successfully completing your CHL class (form CHL-100).

Please note that applying online on the DPS website is not required at this time, but it likely will become mandatory at some point in the future.

What is the State license fee? The standard fee for your first CHL is $140 and renewals every five years are $70. There are 50% discounts for military veterans, applicants age 60 and above, and some peace officers and judges. The state application fee is waived for active military personnel.

How do I renew a CHL?

To renew a CHL, you must take a 4 hr. renewal class that includes shooting the same qualification course used for the initial class. You must also apply for renewal online at the DPS/Texas Online Website. (Using instructor provided packets is not an option for renewal students.) As previously noted, the new online DPS application is comprehensive and will greatly speed up processing. It even includes affidavits. As of May 1, 2010, you are no longer required to submit additional fingerprints and photographs with renewal applications.

Are digital fingerprints required (new or renewal)?

Currently, digital finerprints are not required, but they are highly recommended.  (It is likely that DPS will make digital fingerprints mandatory if/when they make using the online application process mandatory.)  The FBI reject rate for digital fingerprints is less than 1%, but the reject rate for "rolled prints" is close to 30%.  The is the second most common cause for delays in processing of applications.  Using digital also speeds up processing of your CHL application since DPS does not have to take your fingerprint card and scan it into a digital file and hopefully get a file that will be accepted by the FBI.

To get digital fingerprints, just go to the L-1 (a/k/a FAST) website and make an appointment.  For people in the Friendswood/Pearland area, the closest location is in Pearland.  At last report, the fee is $9.95.

What equipment do I need to bring to the class?

Please bring your range gear including:

• A handgun of at least .32 cal. It is recommend that you qualify with a semi-auto, rather than a revolver, if at all possible. If you qualify with a revolver, you will be prohibited from carrying a semi-auto later if you desire;
• At least 50 rds of ammo (100 rds are recommended in case your gun gives you trouble or if you have to re-shoot)
• Eye and ear protection;
• A cap or visor both to shade your eyes and lessen the already remote chance of getting brass behind your protective glasses;
• A holster, "gun rug," gun case, or something to keep your pistol in when moving to and between the firing lines on the range. Although holsters are not used in the qualification, recommend bringing one is recommended, if you have one for the gun you are going to use. It makes it easier to move between firing positions.

How long is the class?

Initial Classes for first-time licensees:

The initial class for first-time licensees is 10 hrs, including range time and a working lunch.
Most classes are offered on the first Saturday of each month from 8:00am until 6:00pm, although classes in other formats are occasionally offered.

Renewal Classes:

Renewal classes are 4 hrs., including range time.
Most classes are scheduled on a Saturday from 8:00am until noon. However, during Daylight Savings Time, some renewal classes are offered on Friday afternoons from 4:00pm to 8:00pm.

What is the class fee and what's included?

Initial classes (10 hrs.) - $125
Renewal classes (4 hrs.) - $75

Class fees include fingerprints, photographs and notary signatures, but do not include the State license fee.  If you are taking the 10 hr. initial course and get digital fingerprints, the class fee will be reduced by $10.