Concealed Handgun Policy "Campus Carry" | Concealed Handgun Policy "Campus Carry" | TJC

Concealed Handgun Policy "Campus Carry"

Download the Campus Concealed Handgun Policy

Since 1995, a Concealed Handgun License holder has been able to carry a concealed handgun on a university campus in a public or private driveway, street, sidewalk or walkway, parking lot, parking garage or other parking area. 

Senate Bill 11 passed by the 84th Texas Legislature permits a Concealed Handgun License holder to carry a concealed handgun anywhere on campus, including in buildings, except where already prohibited by state or federal law or the new university rules associated with changes in the law. 

This law was enacted for universities and four-year colleges on August 1, 2016. For TJC and other community colleges, the law took effect on August 1, 2017.

House Bill 910 (Open Carry)  does not permit open carry on a university campus.

Please attend the Campus Carry forums on your campus when they are announced and call Campus Police (903 510-2258) with questions about the new laws.

HB 910 - Open Carry 
SB 11 - Campus Carry

Who can get a CHL license?

  • At least 21 years of age unless active military;
  • Have been a legal resident of the state for a six-month period preceding the application;
  • Have not been convicted of a felony;
  • Are not currently charged with the commission of a Class A or B misdemeanor;
  • Are not chemically dependent;
  • Are capable of exercising sound judgment;
  • Are not currently restricted under a court protective order or subject to a restraining order affecting a spousal relationship;
  • Are qualified under federal and state law to purchase a handgun;
  • Are current on child support payments or other monies collected by a state agency; and
  • Take and pass a course with written and shooting proficiency tests.

Full eligibility requirements are explained in Texas Government Code § 411.172.

Other states with similar laws:

Colorado (2003)
Idaho (2014)
Kansas (2013)
Mississippi (2011)
Oregon (2011)
Utah (2004)
Wisconsin (2011)