Texas Vehicle Gun Laws: What You Need to Know
Texas is known for its strong gun culture, and the laws surrounding firearms in vehicles reflect that. As a resident, understanding these laws is crucial for responsible gun ownership and avoiding any legal trouble. Here’s a breakdown of the key points to remember:
Carrying a Handgun in Your Vehicle
The Texas Motorist Protection Act allows qualified individuals to carry a handgun in their car, even without a License to Carry (LTC). However, there are some conditions:
- Age: You must be at least 21 years old. (or 18 with a LTC)
- Holster Requirement: If the handgun is visible (in plain view), it must be in a holster. This applies to everyone.
- Concealed Carry: You can carry a concealed handgun without a holster, as long as it’s out of sight. For safety reason it should be in a holster.
- Federal Law: You must be legally able to possess a firearm under federal law as well.
Important Exceptions
- Open Carry: Open carry of a handgun outside a holster is generally prohibited in vehicles, even for LTC holders.
- School Zones: There are strict regulations regarding firearms in school zones, including vehicles. You must have a LTC to have a handgun in your vehicle in a school zone.
- Federal Property: Federal laws govern gun possession on federal property. With a LTC you are exempt the federal “gun free” school zone law.
Long Guns (Rifles and Shotguns)
Texas law doesn’t have specific restrictions on transporting long guns in your vehicle. However, always ensure they are secured to prevent accidental discharge or theft.
Employer Parking Lots
Section 52.061 of the Texas Labor Code prohibits most employers from denying an employee the ability to store a firearm in their parked vehicle on the employers parking lot.
School Parking Lots
Section 37.0815 of the Texas Education Code prohibits a school district or open-enrollment charter school from denying an employee with an LTC the ability to store a firearm in their parked vehicle if it is not in “plain view.”
Beyond the Basics
This post offers a general overview, and gun laws can be nuanced. If you would like to learn the laws in detail and get your Texas LTC, you can take the online Texas LTC class below.
