The law regarding background checks in the state of Texas is clear in some ways but not in others. In the event of a gun sale being made by a federally licensed gun dealer, the requirement is a federal background check for all handgun purchases, regardless if the sale is made at a gun store or gun show. Anyone who holds a current and valid Texas License to Carry is exempt from having a background check completed, even when purchasing at a federally licensed gun dealer. Despite the relaxed approach to gun purchases, the gun ownership rules in the Lone Star State are far more stringent. The firearms education professionals from Online Texas LTC, a top provider of Texas LTC online classes, explain the procedures involved in background checks for handgun buyers in Texas.
Private Sales
Private gun sales in Texas don’t require background checks. This means that, as a Texas resident, you can sell a gun to another Texas resident and no background check is required. It’s the responsibility of the seller to make sure the buyer is a Texas resident and not a convicted felon. Verifying this information could be as simple as asking the buyer these two questions. State law doesn’t require the seller to take further actions to verify this information.
Federal Background Checks
Many different gun laws have been introduced at the federal level, and the decision to become a federally approved gun store is one that Texas companies need to consider. The federal gun store laws make it a requirement for all transactions completed to include background checks, which should limit the chances of any firearm being sold to a convicted felon or domestic abuser. This is a federal requirement, and it’s often referred to when it’s stated that between 25 and 50 percent of all gun sales are made at gun shows. Because of the lack of a link between Texas state officials and federal authorities when it comes to gun sales, Texas gun stores are required to contact the FBI directly if they’re to complete background checks. The exception is for individuals who hold a Texas License to Carry. Even when buying a gun from an FFL dealer, no background check is required for LTC holders.
Whether you purchase a gun for self-defense, hunting, competition, or another purpose, make sure you have the proper training to do it safely. You can count on the firearms education pros at Online Texas LTC for the highest-quality training available. Whether you’re looking for LTC proficiency testing or you want to take a Texas concealed carry online class, call us today at 512-675-2124.
