Do I need to register my firearms in Texas?

Aim High LTC Blog; Texas License to Carry Online

In Texas, it is not required for you to register most firearms in any sort of registry. Texas law does not mandate gun owners to register their firearms with the state or federal government. While registration may not be required, it is highly recommended to acquire the Texas License to Carry. This can be done in person, or even through a Texas LTC Online Course as provided by Aim High LTC. However, there are a few exceptions and important points to consider:

1. No Statewide Firearm Registration

  • Texas does not have a general firearm registration system.
  • You do not need to register a firearm after purchasing it from a dealer or private seller, nor when transferring it from out of state (Welcome to freedom!)

2. Background Check for Purchases

  • If you buy a firearm from a licensed dealer (FFL), they will conduct a background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), unless you have a License to Carry (LTC).
  • If you buy from a private seller, no background check is required under Texas law.
    • As an option to feel more safe, you can buy/sell to a private party through an FFL where you would still pay the transfer fee. Therefore, the FFL would then accomplish the background check on the buyer.

3. NFA (National Firearms Act) Firearms

  • If you own suppressors, short-barreled rifles/shotguns, or machine guns, these must be registered with the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives) under the National Firearms Act (NFA).
  • You will need to submit an ATF Form 1 (if making an NFA item) or Form 4 (if purchasing), pay a $200 tax stamp, and wait for ATF approval.

4. Lost or Stolen Firearms

  • While not legally required, it is highly recommended that you report lost or stolen firearms to law enforcement to prevent misuse.

5. Concealed and Open Carry

  • Texas is a limited permitless carry state (for most handguns) as of September 1, 2021. This means that law-abiding citizens over 21 can carry a handgun without a permit in many places.
  • However, getting a License to Carry (LTC) can provide legal benefits, such as carrying in more places and bypassing background checks for firearm purchases.

6. Get Your Texas LTC with Aim High’s Online LTC

When you’re ready to earn your Texas LTC, choose a trusted provider like Aim High LTC for a Texas license to carry online course that’s both convenient and comprehensive. Gun owners trust Aim High LTC for top-quality firearms training and reliable information on gun safety.

For any questions about firearm ownership in Texas or to start your Texas license to carry online course today.

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