How to Buy Your First Gun in Texas: Complete Guide for 2025

Table of Contents

1. Understanding Texas Gun Laws for First-Time Buyers
2. Legal Requirements to Purchase a Firearm in Texas
3. The Background Check Process (Form 4473)
4. Where to Buy Your First Gun in Texas
5. Choosing Your First Firearm: What Beginners Should Know
6. The FFL Transfer Process Explained
7. Online Gun Purchases and Shipping to Texas
8. Costs Associated with Buying Your First Gun
9. After Your Purchase: Training, Storage, and Ammo
10. Common Mistakes First-Time Gun Buyers Make
11. Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding Texas Gun Laws for First-Time Buyers

If you're considering buying your first gun in Texas, you've chosen one of the most gun-friendly states in America. Texas has some of the most straightforward firearm purchase laws in the country, making it relatively simple for law-abiding citizens to exercise their Second Amendment rights.

Here's the good news: Texas doesn't require permits, licenses, or registration to purchase firearms. Unlike states such as California, New York, or Illinois, you won't need to navigate complex permit systems or waiting periods. However, federal law still applies, and you'll need to pass a background check when buying from a licensed dealer.

As of 2025, Texas operates under constitutional carry (also called permitless carry), which means eligible adults can carry handguns openly or concealed without a License to Carry (LTC). This law, enacted in 2021, doesn't change the purchase process but does affect what you can do with your firearm after buying it.

Key Texas Gun Law Principles

State vs. Federal Law

• Federal law sets the baseline requirements for all gun purchases nationwide
• Texas state law cannot be less restrictive than federal law but can add requirements (though Texas generally doesn't)
• When state and federal laws differ, the more restrictive law applies
• FFL dealers must comply with both sets of regulations

What Texas Law Does NOT Require

• No firearm registration system
• No permit to purchase
• No waiting periods between purchase and possession
• No limit on the number of firearms you can buy at once
• No requirement to notify law enforcement of firearm ownership

What IS Required by Federal Law

• Background check (NICS) for all purchases from licensed dealers
• Completion of ATF Form 4473
• Valid government-issued photo ID proving Texas residency
• Meeting age requirements (18 for long guns, 21 for handguns from dealers)

Texas Constitutional Carry: What It Means for Buyers

Texas's constitutional carry law allows individuals 21 and older (and certain 18-20 year olds who qualify) to carry handguns without a permit. However, this does not eliminate the background check requirement when purchasing from an FFL dealer.

Important distinction: Constitutional carry affects carrying firearms, not purchasing them. You'll still complete the same federal paperwork whether you have an LTC or not.

Benefits of getting an LTC even with constitutional carry:

• Reciprocity with other states that recognize Texas LTC
• Ability to skip the NICS background check at purchase (LTC serves as alternative)
• Additional training and education
• Faster purchase process at gun stores

Legal Requirements to Purchase a Firearm in Texas

Before you walk into a gun store or contact a private seller, you need to understand the legal requirements. Meeting these requirements ensures a smooth purchase process and keeps you on the right side of the law.

Age Requirements

Key point: Federal law sets the age at 21 for handgun purchases from licensed dealers, but 18 for private sales. However, most reputable private sellers follow the 21+ standard for handguns.

Residency Requirements

To purchase a firearm in Texas, you must:

• Be a current Texas resident
• Provide valid proof of residency
• Have a government-issued photo ID with your current Texas address

Acceptable forms of ID:

• Texas Driver's License (most common)
• Texas ID card issued by DPS
• U.S. Passport with supporting residency document
• Military ID with orders showing Texas station

If your ID shows an old address: Bring a supplementary document showing your current address, such as:

• Recent utility bill (electric, water, gas)
• Current lease agreement
• Mortgage statement
• Vehicle registration
• Property tax statement

New to Texas? You must establish residency before purchasing firearms. Simply visiting or temporarily staying in Texas doesn't qualify you as a resident. Generally, you're considered a resident when you've moved to Texas with the intent to make it your home.

Prohibited Persons: Who Cannot Buy Guns in Texas

Federal law prohibits certain individuals from purchasing or possessing firearms. You cannot legally buy a gun if you:

• Have been convicted of a felony
• Have been convicted of domestic violence (even misdemeanors)
• Are under indictment for a felony
• Are a fugitive from justice
• Are an unlawful user of or addicted to controlled substances
• Have been adjudicated as mentally defective or committed to a mental institution
• Have been dishonorably discharged from the military
• Have renounced U.S. citizenship
• Are subject to a restraining order related to domestic violence
• Have been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence

Recent changes to watch: The 2022 Bipartisan Safer Communities Act enhanced background checks for buyers under 21, requiring a more thorough review of juvenile and mental health records. This process can take up to 10 business days for buyers aged 18-20.

Documentation You'll Need

When buying your first gun in Texas, bring:

Required:

• Valid government-issued photo ID showing current Texas address
• Social Security Number (for Form 4473)
• Payment method (cash, credit/debit card—varies by dealer)

Helpful to have:

• Texas License to Carry (if you have one—speeds up process)
• Supplemental proof of address (if ID address is outdated)
• Knowledge of your residential history for past 5 years

Pro Tip: Call ahead to your chosen gun store and ask what specific documentation they require. Some dealers have additional store policies beyond legal requirements.

The Background Check Process (Form 4473)

Every firearm purchase from a licensed dealer in Texas requires completing ATF Form 4473 and passing a background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). Understanding this process helps set proper expectations and prevents surprises.

What is Form 4473?

Form 4473, officially titled "Firearms Transaction Record," is a federal document required by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). This form collects information about you (the buyer) and the firearm being transferred.

The form asks about:

• Personal identification information (name, address, date of birth)
• Physical description (height, weight, race, ethnicity)
• Place of birth and citizenship status
• Whether you fall into any prohibited categories
• Details about the firearm being transferred

Important: You must answer all questions truthfully. Providing false information on Form 4473 is a federal felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and $250,000 in fines.

The NICS Background Check

After you complete Form 4473, the dealer contacts the FBI's NICS system to conduct your background check. This system searches three databases:

• National Crime Information Center (NCIC): Criminal history records
• Interstate Identification Index (III): State criminal history records
• NICS Index: Records of persons prohibited from firearm possession

How Long Does the Background Check Take?

Most background checks in Texas are instant—you'll get a "proceed" response within minutes and walk out with your firearm the same day. However, some situations trigger delays:

Common reasons for delays:

• Name similarity to prohibited person
• Incomplete or unclear records in system
• First-time gun buyer with limited records
• Recent address change
• Common name requiring additional verification

If you're delayed: Don't panic. A delay doesn't mean denial. The FBI has up to three business days to complete the investigation. If they don't respond within that timeframe, the dealer may proceed with the transfer at their discretion (though many choose to wait for a definitive answer).

If you're denied: You have the right to appeal. The denial letter will include instructions for requesting the reason and challenging the decision. Common causes of erroneous denials include:

• Mistaken identity
• Expunged or pardoned convictions still in system
• Incorrect data entry
• Resolved legal issues not updated in database

Texas License to Carry as Background Check Alternative

If you hold a current Texas License to Carry (LTC), you can use it as an alternative to the NICS check. Here's how it works:

• Present your valid LTC to the dealer
• Dealer verifies the license is current and valid
• You still complete Form 4473, but dealer doesn't call NICS
• Process typically takes 10-15 minutes instead of 20-30

Why this works: To obtain an LTC, you already passed a comprehensive background check. Texas law allows this recent check to substitute for NICS, though the dealer still submits your 4473 to ATF for record-keeping.

Pro Tip: Even with an LTC, some dealers still run NICS checks as a store policy. Ask beforehand if you're trying to expedite the process.

Privacy and Record-Keeping

What happens to your information:

• Dealer keeps Form 4473 for 20 years or until they close (then sends to ATF)
• NICS doesn't maintain a searchable database of approved purchases
• Approved NICS checks are purged from the system within 24 hours
• Denied or delayed checks are kept for 10 years for appeals

Texas does not maintain a gun registry. Neither the state nor federal government keeps a centralized database of who owns which firearms. The Form 4473 stays with the dealer unless ATF conducts an inspection or the dealer goes out of business.

Where to Buy Your First Gun in Texas

Once you understand the legal requirements, you have three main options for purchasing your first firearm in Texas:

Option 1: Online Purchases (with FFL Transfer)

Best prices and widest selection - requires local FFL transfer.

What to Expect:

• ✓ Widest selection of firearms and accessories available
• ✓ Often better prices than local retailers
• ✓ Free shipping on orders over certain amounts (Zeth Ammo offers free shipping over $250)
• ✓ Many out-of-state online stores don't charge sales tax, which can mean significant savings
• ✗ Cannot handle firearm before buying
• ✗ Must pay transfer fee to local FFL ($25-75)

How the process works: Purchase online from retailers like Zeth Ammo, Palmetto State Armory, Brownells, or GrabAGun. Select a local Texas FFL dealer for shipping (retailer can help you find one). Once the firearm arrives, visit the FFL to complete Form 4473, pass your background check, pay the transfer fee, and take possession.

Before buying online:

• Confirm your chosen FFL accepts transfers from that retailer
• Understand total cost including shipping and transfer fees
• Read return policy carefully
• Ask FFL about their transfer process and fees upfront

Option 2: Texas Gun Stores

Great for beginners - get hands-on experience and expert guidance.

What to Expect:

• ✓ Try before you buy - handle firearms in person
• ✓ Expert staff advice and recommendations
• ✓ No shipping or FFL transfer fees
• ✓ Local support for warranty claims and gunsmithing
• ✗ May have limited inventory compared to online options
• ✗ Prices may be higher than online retailers

Major Texas gun retailers:

• Academy Sports + Outdoors (widespread, competitive pricing)
• Cabela's/Bass Pro Shops (large selection, outdoor focus)
• GT Distributors (wholesale pricing, multiple Texas locations)

Finding local FFLs: Use the ATF's FFL eZ Check system to find licensed dealers near you. Many smaller shops offer personalized service and competitive pricing.

What to look for in a good gun store:

• Knowledgeable, patient staff willing to educate beginners
• Clean, well-organized facility with proper security
• Diverse inventory across price ranges
• Good reputation in local shooting community
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

Option 3: Gun Shows

Good for comparing multiple vendors and finding deals.

What to Expect:

• ✓ Wide variety of firearms and accessories from multiple vendors
• ✓ Compare prices and products side-by-side
• ✓ Opportunity to negotiate prices
• ✓ Same background checks required as retail stores (no "loophole")
• ✗ Can be overwhelming for beginners
• ✗ Quality and pricing vary significantly

Major Texas gun shows:

• Houston Gun Show (multiple per year)
• Dallas-Fort Worth Gun Show
• San Antonio Gun Show
• Austin Gun Show

Choosing Your First Firearm: What Beginners Should Know

Selecting your first gun is an important decision that depends on your intended use, physical characteristics, and comfort level. There's no single "best" first gun—the right choice varies by individual needs.

Determining Your Primary Purpose

Self-defense (home):

• Best choice: Full-size or compact handgun, or home defense shotgun
• Recommended calibers: 9mm (handgun), 12 or 20 gauge (shotgun)
• Key features: Reliability, adequate capacity, easy operation under stress

Self-defense (carry):

• Best choice: Compact or subcompact handgun
• Recommended calibers: 9mm, .380 ACP
• Key features: Concealability, comfort for all-day carry, sufficient capacity

Target shooting/range fun:

• Best choice: .22 LR handgun or rifle
• Recommended calibers: .22 LR, 9mm
• Key features: Low recoil, affordable ammunition, accuracy

Hunting:

• Best choice: Depends on game (rifle for deer, shotgun for birds)
• Recommended calibers: .308 Win, .30-06, 12 gauge
• Key features: Appropriate power for game, accuracy, reliable action

All-purpose/versatile:

• Best choice: 9mm handgun or .22 LR rifle
• Recommended calibers: 9mm, .22 LR
• Key features: Affordable operation, suitable for multiple uses, easy to learn

Handguns vs. Long Guns: Understanding the Differences

Most versatile first gun: Many experts recommend starting with a quality 9mm handgun (like Glock 19 or Smith & Wesson M&P9) or .22 LR rifle (like Ruger 10/22) depending on your primary intended use.

Recommended First Handguns

Full-Size 9mm Handguns (Home Defense, Range, Multi-Purpose)

Glock 19 (Compact)

• Price: $500-$600
• Capacity: 15+1 rounds
• Weight: 23.65 oz (unloaded)
• Why it's great: Legendary reliability, huge aftermarket support, easy maintenance, perfect size for multiple uses
• Best for: All-around first handgun

Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0

• Price: $450-$550
• Capacity: 17+1 rounds
• Weight: 26.6 oz (unloaded)
• Why it's great: Ergonomic grip, excellent trigger, aggressive texturing, American-made
• Best for: Shooters who want great ergonomics and value

Sig Sauer P320

• Price: $550-$650
• Capacity: 17+1 rounds
• Weight: 26 oz (unloaded)
• Why it's great: Modular design, excellent accuracy, adopted by U.S. military
• Best for: Shooters wanting modularity and upgrade potential

Budget-Friendly Options

Taurus G3 or G3C

• Price: $250-$300
• Capacity: 17+1 (G3), 12+1 (G3C)
• Why it's great: Excellent value, reliable performance, lifetime warranty
• Best for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers

Canik TP9 Series

• Price: $350-$450
• Capacity: 18+1 rounds
• Why it's great: Outstanding trigger, comes with accessories, excellent value
• Best for: Buyers wanting premium features at mid-tier price

Recommended First Rifles

Ruger 10/22

• Price: $250-$350
• Caliber: .22 LR
• Capacity: 10 rounds (standard)
• Why it's great: Legendary reliability, minimal recoil, cheap ammunition ($0.05-0.10 per round), massive aftermarket, perfect learning platform
• Best for: Absolute beginners, young shooters, budget-conscious buyers

Smith & Wesson M&P15 Sport II

• Price: $650-$750
• Caliber: 5.56 NATO/.223 Rem
• Capacity: 30 rounds (standard)
• Why it's great: Reliable AR-15 platform, versatile, easy to customize, good value
• Best for: Buyers wanting a modern sporting rifle for home defense or recreation

Ruger American Rifle

• Price: $450-$550
• Caliber: Multiple options (.308, .30-06, 6.5 Creedmoor, etc.)
• Why it's great: Excellent accuracy, adjustable trigger, affordable, perfect for hunting
• Best for: Hunters or precision shooting enthusiasts

Recommended First Shotguns

Mossberg 500

• Price: $300-$400
• Gauge: 12 or 20 gauge
• Capacity: 5+1 to 8+1 (depending on configuration)
• Why it's great: Proven reliability, affordable, versatile, easy to maintain
• Best for: Home defense, hunting, all-purpose use

Remington 870 Express

• Price: $350-$450
• Gauge: 12 or 20 gauge
• Capacity: 4+1 to 7+1
• Why it's great: Most popular pump shotgun ever made, smooth action, extremely reliable
• Best for: Traditional pump-action reliability and proven performance

Factors to Consider When Choosing

Fit and Ergonomics

• Can you comfortably reach all controls?
• Does the grip fit your hand size?
• Can you easily operate the slide/action?
• Is the trigger reach appropriate?
• Does the recoil feel manageable?

Reliability and Reputation

• Stick with established manufacturers
• Research reliability track records
• Read reviews from multiple sources
• Ask experienced shooters for opinions
• Avoid "bargain" brands with poor reputations

Ammunition Availability and Cost

• 9mm: Widely available, $0.25-0.40 per round
• .22 LR: Most affordable, $0.05-0.10 per round
• .45 ACP: Expensive, $0.50-0.75 per round
• 12 gauge: Affordable, $0.25-0.50 per round
• 5.56/.223: Moderate, $0.40-0.70 per round

Maintenance Requirements

• How easy is field stripping and cleaning?
• Are parts readily available?
• Does it require special tools?
• What's the recommended cleaning schedule?

Aftermarket Support

• Availability of holsters (for handguns)
• Sight and optic options
• Magazines and accessories
• Upgrade potential

What NOT to Buy as Your First Gun

Avoid these for your first firearm:

• Ultra-compact "pocket" pistols: Difficult to shoot accurately, snappy recoil, limited capacity
• Large caliber magnums (.44 Magnum, .500 S&W): Excessive recoil for beginners, expensive ammunition
• Obscure or discontinued models: Parts and magazine availability issues
• "Budget" brands with poor reputations: Hi-Point, Cobra, Phoenix Arms (though Hi-Point has improved)
• Collectible or antique firearms: Better as second or third guns after gaining experience
• Competition-specific guns: Specialized features unnecessary for beginners

Pro Tip: Rent several firearms at a local range before buying. Most ranges charge $10-25 per rental, which is a small investment to ensure you're making the right choice for your first gun.

The FFL Transfer Process Explained

Whether you're buying online or from a private seller who wants to ensure legal compliance, understanding the FFL transfer process is essential. This section walks you through exactly what happens when a firearm is transferred through a Federal Firearms License holder.

What is an FFL?

A Federal Firearms License (FFL) is a license issued by the ATF that allows individuals or businesses to engage in firearms-related activities, including:

• Manufacturing firearms
• Importing firearms
• Dealing/selling firearms
• Collecting curios and relics

For your purposes, you'll work with Type 01 FFL dealers (dealers in firearms other than destructive devices) who can legally transfer firearms to you after conducting the required background check.

The Step-by-Step Transfer Process

Step 1: Select Your FFL Dealer

Before purchasing a firearm online or arranging a private transfer, you need to choose an FFL dealer who will handle the transfer.

How to find an FFL:

• Use online FFL finder tools (many retailers provide this)
• Search the ATF FFL database
• Ask at local gun stores if they accept transfers
• Check gun forums for recommendations in your area
• Look for "kitchen table FFLs" (home-based dealers with lower fees)

Questions to ask potential FFLs:

• What is your transfer fee?
• Do you accept transfers from all online retailers?
• What are your hours for pickups?
• How long do you hold firearms before charging storage fees?
• What documentation do I need to bring?
• Do you require an appointment?

Step 2: Provide FFL Information to Seller

Once you've selected your FFL, you need to provide their information to the seller (whether online retailer or private individual).

Information needed:

• FFL dealer's business name
• Complete address
• FFL license number
• Contact phone number
• Contact email

Most FFLs will email or fax a copy of their license directly to the seller upon request. Some online retailers have FFLs already in their system.

Step 3: Purchase and Shipping

For online purchases:

• Complete your purchase on the retailer's website
• Confirm shipping address (should be your FFL's address)
• Pay for firearm and shipping costs
• Retailer ships firearm to your FFL (typically 3-7 business days)

For private sales using FFL:

• Seller brings firearm to FFL dealer
• FFL inspects firearm and logs it into their bound book
• Seller completes their portion of paperwork
• You're notified that firearm is ready for pickup

Step 4: Notification and Pickup

• FFL receives firearm and logs it into their records
• FFL contacts you (usually within 24 hours) to schedule pickup
• You visit FFL during business hours with required documentation
• FFL verifies firearm matches purchase order

Step 5: Complete Form 4473 and Background Check

This is identical to buying directly from a dealer:

• Complete ATF Form 4473 accurately and truthfully
• Provide valid Texas ID and proof of residency
• FFL contacts NICS for background check
• Wait for approval (typically immediate to 10 minutes)

Step 6: Pay Transfer Fee and Take Possession

• Pay the FFL's transfer fee (typically $25-75)
• Sign final paperwork
• FFL provides you with any included accessories, manuals, etc.
• Take possession of your firearm

Step 7: FFL Record-Keeping

• FFL logs the transfer out of their bound book
• FFL retains Form 4473 for 20 years
• FFL reports multiple handgun purchases to ATF if applicable

Transfer Fees: What to Expect

FFL transfer fees vary significantly based on location, dealer type, and local market conditions.

Additional fees to watch for:

• NICS check fee: Some FFLs charge $5-10 for the background check call
• Storage fees: If you don't pick up within specified timeframe (usually 7-14 days)
• Multiple firearm fees: Some charge per firearm if transferring multiple guns
• After-hours pickup fees: Some FFLs charge extra for pickups outside normal hours

Pro Tip: Establish a relationship with a local FFL who offers fair transfer fees. Regular customers often receive discounts, and a good FFL can help troubleshoot issues with shipments or paperwork.

Common Transfer Issues and Solutions

Issue: Online retailer won't ship to your FFL

Solution:

• Ask your FFL to contact the retailer directly
• Choose a different FFL from the retailer's preferred list
• Select a different online retailer

Issue: FFL received wrong firearm or damaged firearm

Solution:

• Do NOT complete the transfer
• Document damage with photos
• FFL should contact retailer/shipper immediately
• Retailer should arrange return shipping and replacement

Issue: Background check delayed or denied

Solution:

• Delayed: Wait the required 3 business days
• Denied: Request reason from FBI and appeal if erroneous
• FFL will hold firearm until issue is resolved or must return to seller

Issue: FFL charging excessive fees after firearm arrives

Solution:

• Confirm fees in writing before purchasing
• If FFL changes fees after receipt, file complaint with ATF
• Pay fee and leave negative review to warn others
• Choose different FFL for future transfers

Questions to Ask Your FFL Before Completing the Transfer

Before you complete your transfer, verify these details with your FFL:

• Total cost: "What is the total I'll pay today, including all fees?"