FAQ’s: Understanding the Updated Gun Laws in Texas: 2022 Edition

As a responsible gun owner, you need to keep up with the latest development in gun laws in Texas. This blog will examine the latest developments passed by the Texas Legislature and explain what that mean to you and how it could affect your rights.

1. Do I Need a License to Carry (LTC) a Gun in Texas?

According to the most recent update, people who qualify to carry a handgun in public under the law are not required to possess a license to carry (LTC) anymore. However, applying for an LTC is still recommended as people get additional benefits.

In order to carry firearms, citizens must be at least 21 years old. They must also not have a previous felony conviction or a recent conviction for specific types of misdemeanors (highlighted in Texas Penal Code Sections 46.02 and 46.04).

2. Can I Possess a Gun in My Car?

Under Texas law, qualified people can transport handguns in their vehicles. Other than this circumstance, they must have permission to possess a firearm. Under Texas Penal Code Section 46.02 (a-1)(2), people cannot carry a firearm in a vehicle or watercraft if they’re involved in criminal activity.

3. Can I Possess a Gun If I’m Intoxicated?

No, you are not allowed to possess a gun if you’re intoxicated. There are, however, certain exceptions.

4. Can I Carry a Gun Anywhere?

a man carrying a gun in his pocketAccording to the revised laws, most private property owners have the right to decide whether they want to allow guns on their property or not. If they wish to ban guns on their property, they must let others know by posting a sign or using any other way of informing/notifying.

Certain places like hospitals, racetracks, and amusement parks are also considered “prohibited places” under Penal Code Sec. 46.03. Moreover, there are restrictions on carrying guns to schools and colleges. These restrictions are still very much intact after the recent updates. They have not been revised.

Have you been arrested on criminal charges that may endanger your right to carry a firearm? Hire a criminal defense lawyer in Friendswood who understands both gun laws and is a responsible gun owner herself. JL Carpenter has gained both a reputation and high ratings for building aggressive defenses for her clients. She works on a range of criminal defense cases, including drug possession, DWI, family violence, domestic violence, and more.

Take a closer look at her practice areas and, when you’re ready, request a consultation. JL practices all over the Houston Metro area including Clear Lake, Friendswood, Webster, and Galveston, among other neighboring areas.