What Do I Need To Purchase A Gun In Texas?
What Do I Need to Purchase a Gun in Texas?
The Second Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees the right of citizens to keep and bear arms. However, the laws governing gun ownership vary from state to state. In Texas, there are a number of requirements that you must meet in order to purchase a gun.
In this article, we will discuss the specific requirements for purchasing a gun in Texas. We will also provide information on the different types of guns that are available and the different places where you can purchase a gun.
By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of the gun laws in Texas and will be able to make an informed decision about whether or not you want to purchase a gun.
| Requirement | Documentation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Be at least 18 years old | Driver’s license or other government-issued ID | Must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident |
| Pass a background check | Form 4473 | The background check will be conducted by the FBI |
| Complete a firearms safety course | Texas Department of Public Safety-approved course | Not required for long guns |
| Purchase a gun from a licensed dealer | FFL license | The dealer will transfer the gun to you after the background check is complete |
In Texas, the purchase of a firearm is regulated by state and federal law. In order to purchase a gun in Texas, you must meet certain eligibility requirements and provide the required documents. This guide will provide you with information on the eligibility requirements, required documents, and the process of purchasing a gun in Texas.
Eligibility Requirements
In order to purchase a gun in Texas, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
- Be at least 18 years old
- Not have been convicted of a felony or certain other crimes
- Not be a fugitive from justice
- Not be a drug user or addict
- Not be a member of a prohibited organization
- Not be subject to a restraining order or other court order prohibiting you from possessing a firearm
If you have any questions about your eligibility to purchase a gun, you should contact the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Required Documents
In addition to meeting the eligibility requirements, you must also provide the following documents when purchasing a gun in Texas:
- A valid Texas driver’s license or other government-issued ID
- Proof of age (such as a birth certificate or passport)
- Proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease agreement)
- A completed Texas firearm purchase application
- A background check fee
The background check fee is $30. You can pay the fee online or at a DPS office.
The Process of Purchasing a Gun
The process of purchasing a gun in Texas is relatively straightforward. Here are the steps involved:
1. Find a licensed gun dealer.
2. Complete a Texas firearm purchase application.
3. Pay the background check fee.
4. Have your fingerprints taken.
5. Wait for the results of the background check.
6. If the background check is approved, you can pick up your gun.
The entire process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the backlog of background checks.
Purchasing a gun in Texas is a legal process that requires you to meet certain eligibility requirements and provide the required documents. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that you are able to purchase a gun legally and without any hassle.
Additional Resources
- [Texas Department of Public Safety: Buying a Firearm](https://www.dps.texas.gov/rsd/firearms/buying/)
- [National Rifle Association: How to Buy a Gun](https://www.nra.org/articles/how-to-buy-a-gun)
- [National Shooting Sports Foundation: Buying a Firearm](https://www.nssf.org/articles/buying-a-firearm/)
3. Purchase Process
To purchase a gun in Texas, you must be at least 18 years old and a resident of the state. You must also have a valid Texas driver’s license or identification card.
Find a licensed firearms dealer in Texas
The first step is to find a licensed firearms dealer in Texas. You can find a list of licensed dealers on the Texas Department of Public Safety website.
Select the firearm you want to purchase
Once you have found a licensed dealer, you can select the firearm you want to purchase. Be sure to read the product description carefully and ask the dealer any questions you have.
Complete the Texas firearm purchase application
The next step is to complete the Texas firearm purchase application. The application is available online or at the dealer’s location. You will need to provide your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number. You will also need to provide the make, model, and serial number of the firearm you are purchasing.
Pay the background check fee
Once you have completed the application, you will need to pay the background check fee. The fee is $19.00.
Wait for the background check to be completed
The dealer will submit your application to the Texas Department of Public Safety for a background check. The background check will take approximately 3-5 business days to complete.
If the background check is approved, the dealer will transfer the firearm to you
If the background check is approved, the dealer will transfer the firearm to you. You will need to sign a bill of sale and provide a copy of your driver’s license or identification card.
4. After-Purchase Requirements
Once you have purchased a firearm, you must follow certain after-purchase requirements. These requirements include:
- Registering the firearm with the Texas Department of Public Safety
- Keeping the firearm in a safe place
- Using the firearm responsibly
Registering the firearm with the Texas Department of Public Safety
You must register your firearm with the Texas Department of Public Safety within 30 days of purchase. You can register your firearm online or by mail.
Keeping the firearm in a safe place
You must keep your firearm in a safe place, such as a locked gun safe or cabinet. This will help to prevent children and unauthorized persons from accessing the firearm.
Using the firearm responsibly
You must use your firearm responsibly and in accordance with all applicable laws. This includes storing the firearm safely, following all safety rules, and using the firearm only for lawful purposes.
Purchasing a firearm in Texas is a serious responsibility. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that you are legally and responsibly purchasing a firearm.
Additional Resources
- [Texas Department of Public Safety: Buying a Firearm](https://www.dps.texas.gov/rsd/forms/34000.pdf)
- [National Rifle Association: How to Buy a Gun](https://www.nra.org/articles/how-to-buy-a-gun)
- [National Shooting Sports Foundation: Firearm Safety](https://www.nssf.org/safety/)
What Do I Need To Purchase A Gun In Texas?
- A valid Texas driver’s license or identification card.
- Proof of age (you must be at least 18 years old to purchase a long gun and 21 years old to purchase a handgun).
- A completed Texas firearm purchase application.
- The purchase price of the firearm.
- A background check fee.
How Do I Get A Texas Driver’s License Or Identification Card?
You can apply for a Texas driver’s license or identification card at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) driver’s license office. You will need to provide the following documents:
- Your original birth certificate or a certified copy of your birth certificate.
- Your Social Security card.
- Two proofs of residency (such as a utility bill, bank statement, or paycheck).
- A passport photo.
How Do I Prove My Age?
You can prove your age by providing one of the following documents:
- Your original or certified copy of your birth certificate.
- Your valid Texas driver’s license or identification card.
- Your U.S. passport.
- A military ID card.
How Do I Complete A Texas Firearm Purchase Application?
You can complete a Texas firearm purchase application online or at any Texas DPS driver’s license office. The application must be completed in full and signed by the purchaser.
What Is The Background Check Fee?
The background check fee for a firearm purchase in Texas is $19.00.
What Happens After I Submit My Texas Firearm Purchase Application?
Once you have submitted your Texas firearm purchase application, it will be processed by the Texas Department of Public Safety. The background check will take approximately 30 days to complete. If your background check is approved, you will be able to pick up your firearm from the dealer.
What If My Background Check Is Not Approved?
If your background check is not approved, you will not be able to purchase a firearm in Texas. There are a number of reasons why your background check may not be approved, such as a prior felony conviction or a history of domestic violence. If your background check is not approved, you will be notified in writing by the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Where Can I Find More Information About Purchasing A Gun In Texas?
You can find more information about purchasing a gun in Texas on the Texas Department of Public Safety website.
purchasing a gun in Texas is a straightforward process, but it is important to be aware of the necessary steps and requirements. By following the guidelines laid out in this article, you can make sure that you are legally and safely able to purchase a firearm.
Here are the key takeaways:
- You must be 18 years of age or older to purchase a long gun (rifle or shotgun) and 21 years of age or older to purchase a handgun.
- You must have a valid Texas driver’s license or identification card.
- You must pass a background check.
- You must complete a safety course.
- You must purchase your gun from a licensed dealer.
By following these steps, you can be sure that you are legally and safely able to purchase a firearm in Texas.