Texas has specific conditions for active military members and veterans. This page lays them out with the current figures, and shows where the Online Texas LTC Class fits.
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Quick Answer: Can Military Members and Veterans Get a Texas LTC Online
Yes. Eligible active-duty military members and veterans can use the approved online classroom path for a Texas LTC. Texas DPS also lists special fee and proficiency rules for qualifying military applicants. Review the current DPS special-condition page before you schedule the range portion. Review it before you pay a state application fee too.
Table of Contents
The Online Classroom Works Well With Military Schedules
PCS moves, duty schedules, travel, and family responsibilities can make a fixed civilian classroom difficult. The approved online classroom option lets an eligible military applicant complete the education on a flexible schedule.
Texas Has Military-Specific LTC Conditions
DPS lists three separate military categories, and they are not the same. Each one has its own fee and its own document list.
- Active Military. New license $0. Renewal $0.
- Active Texas Military. New license $0. Renewal $0.
- Veteran, honorably discharged. New license $25. Renewal $25.
These are the state application fees. Fingerprinting is charged separately, and it is not part of these amounts.
Each category also has its own proof. Active military and active Texas military can submit a current Leave and Earnings Statement, current orders, or a letter from a commanding officer.
A veteran has several options. One is a DD-214 showing an honorable, under honorable, or general discharge. DPS applies a 365 day window to the DD-214 option. Check the current wording on the DPS military page before you send it. A military ID marked indefinite, retired, or reserve retired is also accepted. So is an honorable discharge certificate. So is a VA letter stating honorable.
You can see the whole table on the DPS Special Conditions: Military page.
Last verified: July 2026. Fees and special provisions can change, including by legislative session. Check the DPS page before you apply.
Prior Military Firearms Training May Matter
The DPS military table gives applicants in all three categories a choice. One option uses the training certificate for the classroom portion only. You then add military range scores. Proof of firearm training or proficiency from active service also works. That service must fall within the preceding 10 years. DPS says this can replace the proficiency demonstration. DPS also says any firearm qualifies.
The other option is the standard route: the training certificate from an LTC Handgun Instructor or an Online Course Provider, then the range portion.
DPS adds an important note on that same page. If you take the standard route, range instruction and the handgun proficiency demonstration must be completed with an LTC Handgun Instructor. Your supporting documents still have to meet DPS requirements either way.
Take the next step: Start your Online Texas LTC Class today with First Shot Training.
Do Not Assume Every DD-214 Creates the Same Result
Veteran status, discharge characterization, timing, and supporting documents matter. Use the current DPS military special-condition table rather than an old forum post.
Nonresident Military Applicants Can Still Have a Path
Texas issues nonresident LTCs to eligible applicants. That can help a service member whose legal residence is another state. Be clear on one point. The DPS military special conditions table does not include a nonresident military row. This is the general Texas nonresident process. It is not a military special condition.
Start With the Online Education, Then Verify Your Special Condition
If you know you want the Texas LTC, start the online classroom now. You can work through it while you gather your paperwork. That may include an LES, current orders, a DD-214, or other documents DPS requires for your status. When you finish, you receive course completion documentation. Here is what the LTC-104 is and what to do with it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can active-duty military take the Texas LTC class online?
Yes, through an approved Online Course Provider.
Does Texas waive the state LTC fee for active military?
Yes. The DPS military special conditions table lists a $0 state fee for a new license and $0 for a renewal. That applies to both Active Military and Active Texas Military. Fingerprinting is charged separately.
Do veterans get a reduced state fee?
Yes. DPS lists $25 for a new license and $25 for a renewal for an honorably discharged veteran. The required documentation still applies.
Can military range scores replace the Texas proficiency demonstration?
Yes, in the military categories. DPS accepts military range scores, or proof of firearm training or proficiency from active service. That service must fall within the preceding 10 years. It can replace the proficiency demonstration, and any firearm qualifies. You still need the training certificate for the classroom portion.
Can a service member with an out-of-state license apply?
Texas has a general nonresident LTC process, and it is not a military special condition. Additional identification documents can apply.
Official Texas Sources
For current, authoritative details, always confirm with the official Texas sources below:
- Texas DPS, Special Conditions for Military
- Texas DPS, Application FAQs
- Texas DPS, Training Requirements FAQ
Military and veteran note: Reduced and waived fees depend on your specific status and on the documentation DPS accepts. These provisions can change, including by legislative session. Confirm your eligibility and the current fee with Texas DPS before you apply.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. First Shot Training is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. While we make every reasonable effort to ensure the information we publish is accurate and up to date at the time of publication, laws, regulations, licensing requirements, reciprocity agreements, and government policies may change without notice. You are responsible for verifying current information with official government sources before relying on any information contained in this article. If you have questions regarding how the law applies to your specific circumstances, consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
