Getting your Texas License to Carry (LTC) should be straightforward, but thousands of applicants face unnecessary delays every year. According to Texas Department of Public Safety data, nearly 30% of LTC applications require additional documentation or corrections, adding weeks or even months to the approval process. When you’re paying application fees, training costs, and potentially missing opportunities to carry legally, these delays aren’t just inconvenient—they’re expensive.
The good news? Most application delays stem from seven preventable Texas LTC Application Mistakes that we see repeatedly in our Texas LTC classes. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or renewing your license, understanding these common pitfalls can save you time, money, and frustration.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn exactly what causes most Texas LTC Application Mistakes, how to avoid each one, and what to do if your application gets stuck in processing. By the end, you’ll have everything you need to submit a complete, accurate application that moves through the system efficiently.
Top 7 Texas LTC Application Mistakes/Errors
After helping hundreds of Texans navigate the LTC process through our online certification classes, we’ve identified the most common mistakes that cause application delays. These seven errors account for the majority of processing issues, but they’re all completely preventable with proper preparation.
1. Incomplete Background Information
What it is: Many applicants underestimate the depth of background information required for a Texas LTC application. The Texas Department of Public Safety requires a complete 5-year history of your employment, residences, and personal references. Missing even a single job or address can trigger a request for additional information.
Why it delays your application: DPS conducts thorough background checks that verify every piece of information you provide. When employment dates don’t align or addresses are missing, investigators must pause your application to request clarification. This back-and-forth communication can add 2-4 weeks to your processing time.
How to fix it: Before starting your application, create a comprehensive timeline of the past five years. Include:
- Every address where you’ve lived, including exact dates
- All employers, including part-time and contract work
- Complete contact information for references who can verify your character
- Military service details if applicable
Pro tip: Keep detailed records of this information for future renewals. Texas LTC licenses are valid for five years, and you’ll need updated background information when it’s time to renew.
Common oversights in Texas LTC background checks:
- Forgetting short-term employment (even jobs lasting less than six months must be reported)
- Omitting college addresses or temporary housing
- Providing incomplete employment verification details
- Missing reference contact information
2. Wrong Photo Specifications
What it is: Photo requirements for Texas LTC applications are surprisingly specific, and even minor deviations can result in rejection. We regularly see applicants whose photos are rejected for issues like incorrect dimensions, wrong background colors, or wearing prohibited accessories.
Why it causes delays: When your photo doesn’t meet DPS specifications, you’ll receive a notice requiring resubmission. This means paying an additional $25 resubmission fee and waiting another 2-3 weeks for processing to resume.
DPS photo requirements include:
- Exact dimensions: 2″ x 2″ (passport photo size)
- Plain white or off-white background
- Recent photo (taken within 30 days of application)
- No glasses, hats, or other accessories
- Neutral facial expression with both eyes open
- Color photo (black and white not accepted)
Cost of photo mistakes: Beyond the $25 resubmission fee, photo rejections often add 3-4 weeks to your total processing time. For someone eager to carry legally, this delay can be particularly frustrating.
Solution: Visit a professional photographer or pharmacy that specializes in passport photos. While DIY photos might seem cost-effective, professional services understand the specific requirements and typically guarantee acceptance. Most locations charge $10-15 for passport photos, which is less than the resubmission fee if your DIY photo gets rejected.
3. Missing Required Documents
What it is: Texas LTC applications require specific supporting documents, and the requirements vary based on your residency status, military service, and personal history. The most commonly forgotten documents include certified birth certificates, military discharge papers, and court records for any disclosed incidents.
Complete document checklist:
- Certified copy of birth certificate or valid passport
- Proof of Texas residency (utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement)
- Military discharge papers (DD-214) if applicable
- Court documents for any disclosed criminal history
- Name change documentation if applicable
- Proof of training completion
Certified copies vs. regular copies: Many documents must be certified copies, not photocopies or scanned versions. Birth certificates, military records, and court documents typically require official certification. Contact the issuing agency to obtain certified copies, as this process can take several weeks.
Out-of-state complications: If you’re a new Texas resident, you may need additional documentation to establish residency. Recent utility bills, bank statements, or lease agreements dated within 30 days of application are typically required.
Incorrect Fee Payment
Current Texas LTC fees (2025):
- New application: $40
- Renewal: $40
- Duplicate license: $25
- Name/address change: $25
Additional costs to budget:
- Fingerprinting: $10 (at approved locations)
- Training course: $25-100 (varies by provider)
- Photo: $10-15 (if using professional services)
Payment methods: DPS accepts major credit cards, debit cards, and electronic checks. Cash and personal checks are not accepted for online applications.
Common payment errors:
- Using expired credit cards
- Insufficient funds for the full amount
- Attempting to pay with unsupported payment methods
- Not accounting for additional fees beyond the base application cost
Fee waivers and discounts: Active military, veterans, and senior citizens may qualify for reduced fees. Check current eligibility requirements on the DPS website, as these programs change periodically.
4. Training Certificate Issues
What it is: Your Texas LTC training certificate must meet specific requirements regarding instructor certification, course content, and validity period. Invalid or expired certificates are among the most common reasons for application delays.
How to verify certified instructors: Only DPS-certified instructors can issue valid training certificates. Before enrolling in any course, verify your instructor’s certification status on the DPS website. Certificates from non-certified instructors will be rejected, requiring you to retake the entire course.
Certificate validity: Training certificates are valid for two years from the completion date. If your certificate expires before your application is processed, you’ll need to retake the training course.
Online vs. in-person training: As of 2025, Texas allows online LTC training courses, but they must include specific components and be taught by certified instructors. Our online Texas LTC class through Red Dirt Shooting Sports meets all current DPS requirements and includes the required legal instruction, safety training, and proficiency demonstration.
Required certificate information:
- Student’s full legal name (exactly as it appears on application)
- Instructor’s DPS certification number
- Course completion date
- Instructor’s signature and date signed
- Specific course content verification
5. Address Verification Problems
What it is: Proving Texas residency requires recent documentation that clearly shows your name and current address. Many applicants submit documents that don’t meet DPS requirements for date, format, or acceptable document types.
Acceptable proof of residency:
- Utility bills (electric, gas, water, cable, internet)
- Bank or credit card statements
- Lease agreements or mortgage statements
- Insurance policies
- Government correspondence
Date restrictions: Residency documents must be dated within 30-90 days of your application submission. Older documents won’t be accepted, even if they’re your most recent statements.
PO Box limitations: Post office boxes cannot be used as proof of physical residency. If you receive mail at a PO Box, you’ll need alternative documentation showing your physical address.
Handling recent moves: If you’ve moved recently, gather documentation from your new address as soon as possible. Utility companies can often provide interim statements or connection confirmations that satisfy residency requirements.
6. Criminal History Disclosure Errors
What it is: Texas law requires disclosure of specific criminal history, including incidents that were dismissed, deferred, or expunged. Many applicants incorrectly assume that sealed records don’t need to be reported, leading to delays when background checks reveal undisclosed information.
What must be disclosed:
- All arrests, regardless of outcome
- Deferred adjudication agreements
- Dismissed charges
- Expunged or sealed records
- Military disciplinary actions
- Protective orders or restraining orders
Traffic violations: Most minor traffic violations don’t require disclosure, but DWI/DUI, reckless driving, and racing violations must be reported. When in doubt, disclose the incident rather than risk delays.
Required court documentation: For each disclosed incident, you’ll need official court records showing the final disposition. Contact the court clerk in the jurisdiction where the incident occurred to obtain certified copies of these documents.
Common disclosure mistakes:
- Assuming expunged records don’t need reporting
- Forgetting minor incidents from years past
- Providing incomplete court documentation
- Misunderstanding which traffic violations require disclosure
How to Avoid Texas LTC Application Delays
Preparation checklist:
- Gather all required documents before starting your application
- Verify your training instructor’s DPS certification
- Obtain professional passport photos
- Create a detailed 5-year background timeline
- Collect certified copies of all required documents
- Review disclosure requirements for any criminal history
Document organization tips:
- Create a dedicated folder for all LTC-related paperwork
- Make copies of everything before submitting
- Use a checklist to verify you have all required items
- Double-check that all documents meet date requirements
Application review process:
Before submitting, review every section of your application for:
- Spelling errors in names and addresses
- Consistent date formats throughout
- Complete contact information for all references
- Accurate disclosure of any required criminal history
When to seek professional help:
Consider taking a comprehensive LTC class if you:
- Have complex criminal history requiring disclosure
- Are unsure about training requirements
- Want guidance through the entire application process
- Prefer structured learning with expert instruction
Texas LTC Processing Times in 2025
Current processing timeframes:
- Standard processing: 60 days maximum (per Texas law)
- Typical actual processing: 30-45 days for complete applications
- Incomplete applications: 60-90+ days due to back-and-forth correspondence
Factors affecting processing speed:
Complete, accurate applications move through the system much faster than those requiring additional documentation. Applications submitted during peak periods (after legislative changes or major news events) may take longer due to increased volume.
Peak application periods:
- January-March (New Year resolutions and legislative session awareness)
- Summer months (increased outdoor activities and travel)
- Following major news events related to personal protection
Status checking:
Monitor your application status through the DPS online portal. You’ll receive email notifications at key milestones, including when additional documentation is needed or when your license is approved.
What to Do If Your Application Is Delayed
When to be concerned:
If your application has been pending for more than 60 days without communication from DPS, it’s appropriate to inquire about the status. However, remember that complex applications (those requiring additional documentation) legitimately take longer to process.
Contacting DPS:
When calling or emailing DPS, have your application number, full legal name, and date of birth ready. Be prepared to provide specific information about your application status and any correspondence you’ve received.
Common delay reasons:
- Incomplete background information requiring verification
- Missing or incorrect supporting documents
- Criminal history requiring additional review
- Address verification issues
- Training certificate problems
Resubmission process:
If DPS requests additional information, respond promptly with exactly what they’ve requested. Providing more or different information than requested can actually slow down the process further.
Conclusion: Get Your Texas LTC Right the First Time
Avoiding these seven common Texas LTC application mistakes can save you weeks of delays and additional fees. The key is thorough preparation before you start your application, ensuring you have all required documents, accurate information, and proper training certification.
Remember, your Texas LTC application is an investment in your legal right to carry. Taking the time to do it correctly the first time saves money, reduces frustration, and gets you carrying legally as quickly as possible.
Ready to start your Texas LTC journey? Our comprehensive online Texas LTC class covers everything you need to know about Texas carry laws, safety requirements, and the application process. With certified instruction and a 100% satisfaction guarantee, we’ll help you avoid these common mistakes and get your license efficiently.
Take our Texas LTC class today and join thousands of Texans who’ve successfully obtained their License to Carry through Red Dirt Shooting Sports. Our online format lets you complete the required training on your schedule, with expert instruction that ensures you’re fully prepared for both the application process and responsible carry.
For questions about the LTC process or to learn more about our training programs, contact Red Dirt Shooting Sports. We’re here to help you exercise your Second Amendment rights safely and legally.
This comprehensive guide reflects current Texas LTC requirements as of 2025. Laws and procedures may change, so always verify current requirements with the Texas Department of Public Safety before submitting your application.