AUSTIN, TX — Texas has enacted SB 706, a measure that recognizes any valid handgun license issued by another state. The bill was signed on June 20, 2025, and took effect September 1, 2025.
SB 706 amends Section 411.173(b) of the Texas Government Code to state that a valid license to carry a handgun issued by any other state is recognized in Texas. The law also directs the governor to negotiate agreements with states that require formal reciprocity before they will recognize a Texas License to Carry. In addition, the Department of Public Safety must publish and annually update a list of states that recognize a Texas LTC. The bill repeals prior provisions that tied recognition to an Attorney General background-check determination process.
For travelers, this is a major change. Before SB 706, recognition of out-of-state handgun licenses depended on whether Texas had a reciprocity agreement with the issuing state. That patchwork approach often left gun owners uncertain about whether their license would be valid when visiting Texas. Now, any valid carry permit from any U.S. state will be recognized, removing that uncertainty and making travel simpler for lawful carriers.
However, this law does not change Texas-specific rules. Anyone carrying a handgun in Texas must still follow state law, including restrictions on off-limits locations, compliance with posted signage (30.05/30.06/30.07), and all other carry regulations. Likewise, Texans traveling out of state must follow the laws of the state they are visiting, and DPS will continue to provide updated information on where a Texas license is recognized.
At USA Carry, our concealed carry reciprocity maps have been updated to reflect this important change. Carriers can use these maps to quickly check recognition when traveling across state lines and it is mobile-ready, no need to download an app.
SB 706 simplifies the law for visitors and strengthens the ability of law-abiding Americans to exercise their rights responsibly. As always, the key is to train regularly, know the laws of the state you are in, and carry with awareness.
Read the full article here
