Texas CHL Terminology"on or about one's person" with regards to CHL Unless properly licensed then having a handgun “on or about ones’ person” is strictly prohibited under Statutory Law. However, Texas law does make an exemption for individuals traveling across Texas who are carrying loaded weapons for self protection, but only when it is considered a legitimate journey or they are participating in lawful firearm activities such as target shooting or hunting. Any doubt by law officers as to the legitimacy of a persons’ purpose in carrying a weapon will probably see the “offender” enjoy and unscheduled overnight visit to the nearest jail. If you are not able to prove the legitimacy of your need to carry a loaded weapon you have no gun license for, then you must travel with it in the trunk of your vehicle and unloaded. There are no restrictions imposed on carrying a loaded shotgun or rifle in Texas, provided that they are securely carried or transported in a vehicle either in a commercial gun rack or case.
Texas concealed carry law allows for the concealed carry of a handgun on ones’ person and in ones’ vehicle by properly licensed individuals, but it MUST be concealed. Concealment includes being carried in a glove compartment, under a seat, or inside of a case, bag or box and placed on a seat or on the floor of the vehicle. Failure to do so will see the holder of the Texas concealed handgun license in breach of the law governing issuing of the license and is a serious offence.
The Texas Department of Public Safety has negotiated reciprocal carry agreements with other states for the recognition of their citizens' carry permits. This reciprocity is conditional upon formal agreements and may be subject to periodic revision, so it is up to any person crossing any state lines to check with the state they are entering as to what their rights and responsibilities are before doing so.
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