Texas DPS proposes new rules for licenses to carry guns. Here's what to know

The Texas Department of Public Safety has proposed rule changes that would affect how Texans apply for and renew certain licenses, including handgun carry licenses.

At the center of the proposal: Applicants would need to submit proof of eligibility under the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, a federal law that limits certain public benefits to U.S. citizens and specific categories of lawfully present noncitizens.

While Texans can still apply for a license to carry, state law allows most adults to carry handguns without one, a policy known as permitless carry. The proposed changes would apply to those who still seek a license. 

Documents to prove eligibility could include:

* REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID
* U.S. passport
* Foreign passport with visa and I-94
* Birth certificate
* Certificate of naturalization or citizenship
* Permanent resident card (green card)
* Other federal immigration documents

The requirement would apply to both new applications and renewals, according to the proposal. 

Who else would be affected

The proposed rules extend beyond handgun licenses and would also apply to several DPS-regulated licenses and certifications, including:

* Handgun instructor certifications
* Private security licenses and registrations
* Ignition interlock device vendors
* Other regulatory programs overseen by DPS

Applicants in those categories would also need to meet the same federal eligibility requirements.

Driver’s license updates included

The proposal also updates rules on alternative addresses for driver’s licenses, which allow some Texans to use a substitute address instead of their home address for safety reasons. The changes are tied to laws passed in 2025, though details on how eligibility would expand are limited in the filing. 

What happens next?

The proposal was filed in April and is subject to a public comment period, which closes May 24. 

If adopted, the rules could take effect as early as late May.