If you’re an active or retired law enforcement officer in Texas, you have two main legal paths to carry a concealed handgun: LEOSA and the Texas License to Carry (LTC). While both allow you to legally carry, they serve different purposes, follow different rules, and come with unique responsibilities.
Here’s what you need to know.
What is LEOSA?
The Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA) is a federal law (18 U.S.C. §§ 926B & 926C) that allows qualified current and retired LEOs to carry concealed firearms nationwide, regardless of most state or local laws.
You must:
✅ Be an active or retired LEO in good standing
✅ Have at least 10 years of service (or separate due to a duty-related disability)
✅ Complete annual firearms qualification (for retirees)
✅ Not be prohibited by federal law from owning a firearm
✅ Carry a valid LEOSA photo ID and proof of qualification
What is the Texas LTC?
The Texas License to Carry is a state-issued permit that allows civilians and law enforcement officers to carry handguns openly or concealed in Texas and in states with reciprocity agreements.
Benefits of the LTC include:
✅ Legal carry in more sensitive areas (e.g., some college campuses)
✅ Quicker background checks for firearm purchases
✅ Recognition in other states (reciprocity)
✅ Potential protections when entering prohibited areas accidentally
LEOSA vs. Texas LTC — Key Differences
| Feature | LEOSA | Texas LTC |
|---|---|---|
| Who qualifies | Active/retired LEOs only | Civilians and LEOs |
| Valid where? | Nationwide (with limits) | In Texas & reciprocity states |
| Carry without permit? | Yes, under federal law | Yes, in Texas (permitless carry allowed since 2021) |
| Training required? | Yes — annual firearms qualification (retirees) | Yes — training + shooting test for initial LTC |
| Covers restricted areas? | Not always — some areas still off-limits | Some extended access (e.g., certain school zones) |
| Legal authority? | No law enforcement powers — just carry rights | None — just civilian carry privileges |
| ID needed? | LEOSA photo ID + qual proof | LTC card issued by DPS |
Why a Texas LEO Might Want Both
Even if you qualify under LEOSA, having a Texas LTC can be smart:
🔹 LTC is useful in Texas-specific legal situations (e.g., signage disputes)
🔹 Some Texas agencies may not recognize LEOSA credentials as quickly as an LTC
🔹 LTC may offer easier recognition during traffic stops or when traveling
🔹 LTC is often simpler to explain to non-federal officers or out-of-state LEOs
Places Where Neither LEOSA nor LTC Helps
Whether you carry under LEOSA or with an LTC, the following areas are generally off-limits:
🚫 Federal buildings (courthouses, post offices, TSA-secured areas)
🚫 Businesses or properties with legal “30.06” or “30.07” signage
🚫 Private property where firearms are banned by the owner
🚫 Any area prohibited under federal or state law
LEOSA Firearms Qualification in Texas
If you’re retired and using LEOSA:
- You must complete an annual qualification course in Texas
- Use a TCOLE-certified instructor who knows LEOSA-specific standards
- Carry proof of qualification and your LEOSA-issued ID at all times
💡 Tip: Many LTC instructors in Texas also offer LEOSA certification. Just confirm that the course is LEOSA-compliant.
Bottom Line
| Situation | Best Option |
|---|---|
| You’re an active or retired LEO who travels | LEOSA |
| You want extra protections in Texas | Texas LTC |
| You qualify for both | Get both — they complement each other |
Final Advice
Texas is very firearms-friendly, but don’t assume every officer, agency, or business understands LEOSA. If you’re carrying under LEOSA:
- Keep your ID and proof of qualification with you at all times
- Understand local restrictions (especially signage and sensitive locations)
- Consider getting a Texas LTC for added legal protection and clarity
Need help finding a LEOSA qualification course or LTC instructor in Texas? Contact us to schedule an appointment.
- Passed in 2004 (18 U.S.C. §§ 926B & 926C)
- Applies to qualified current or retired LEOs
- Allows nationwide concealed carry without needing a state-issued permit
- Doesn’t override all laws (like federal gun-free zones or private property rights)
Texas Concealed Carry Laws
Texas allows permitless carry for most adults over 21 (as of 2021), but:
- Many still choose to get a License to Carry (LTC) for travel or legal protections
- Certain locations (schools, courthouses, private property with signage) still prohibit carry, even under LEOSA
- Signage laws (30.06 / 30.07) must be respected
- TCOLE oversees LEOSA firearms qualifications in Texas for retirees
LEOSA in Texas: What You Must Do
To legally carry under LEOSA in Texas:
✅ Be a qualified active or retired officer (in good standing)
✅ For retirees: have at least 10 years of service or a service-related disability
✅ Complete annual firearms qualification (through a certified Texas instructor)
✅ Carry both your LEOSA ID and proof of qualification at all times
Where LEOSA Does Not Apply (Even in Texas)
🚫 Private property with proper “no guns” signage (30.06 / 30.07)
🚫 Certain government buildings (courts, jails, etc.)
🚫 Federal property (e.g., post offices, military bases, TSA areas)
Final Word
If you’re a qualified law enforcement officer in Texas:
- LEOSA lets you carry nationwide without worrying about most state permits
- But you must meet the qualifications, stay current on training, and know where carry is still restricted
- In Texas, LEOSA and state law work well together — but only if you understand both
Sign up for our online Texas LTC course below, then schedule an appointment for your shooting qualification.
