Is Open Carry Legal in Texas? (2026)
Partially — Open Carry is legal with restrictions in Texas as of 2026.
Law changed in 2021: Texas became a constitutional carry state in 2021, which was the last major change to its carry laws.
Quick Answer
Open carry of firearms is legal with restrictions in Texas without a permit for adults who are legally allowed to possess firearms. Texas became a constitutional carry state in 2021, which was the last major change to its carry laws.
- Age restriction: 18+ for long guns, 21+ for handguns
What the Law Says
Texas law permits open carry of a handgun in a holster by individuals who are not prohibited from possessing a firearm. However, a person can be charged with disorderly conduct, a Class A Misdemeanor, if they display a firearm in a manner calculated to alarm under Tex. Penal Code Ann. § 42.01.
— Tex. Penal Code Ann. § 46.02
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Open Carry Rules | Legal without permit for eligible adults |
| Permit Requirements | Legal through licensed dealers |
| Penalties | Prohibited in certain locations (schools, courthouses, etc.). |
| Minimum Age | 18+ for long guns, 21+ for handguns |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
Texas became a constitutional carry state in 2021, which was the last major change to its carry laws.
Enforcement Reality
Texas is a constitutional carry state, allowing for both open and concealed carry without a permit for anyone who can legally possess a firearm. Open carry is legal and accepted.
A common mistake is carrying a firearm into a place that is prohibited by law, such as a school, a bar, or a business that has posted a specific sign prohibiting firearms.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Texas. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Open Carry is legal with restrictions in Texas. This activity is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.
Texas vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, open carrying a firearm is fully legal in 0 states, restricted in 45, and illegal in 5. Texas falls in the RESTRICTED category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Open Carry:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is open carrying a firearm legal in Texas?
What are the restrictions on open carrying a firearm in Texas?
What mistakes do people make with open carrying a firearm in Texas?
What is the minimum age for open carrying a firearm in Texas?
Interactive Tools
See your overall risk score for Texas based on all your activities.
Get Risk Score →See how Open Carry laws change if you relocate from Texas.
Relocation Analyzer →Check if Open Carry laws change at state borders on your route.
Plan Your Trip →Get Open Carry Legal Updates
Get notified when open carry laws change in any state.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Comprehensive Texas Legal Guides
Explore all related legal topics in Texas — statutes, penalties, and enforcement in one place.