If you’re working toward your Texas License to Carry (LTC), the handgun proficiency qualification is the final step before certification. The good news? The Texas LTC shooting test is designed to confirm safe handling and basic marksmanship—not advanced tactical skills.

I am a Texas LTC certified handgun Instructor, and I have done many of these shooting tests, most pass with ease. With the right preparation and a quality Texas LTC online course, most applicants pass easily on their first attempt. Here’s exactly what to expect and how to prepare for success.

Step 1: Understand the Texas LTC Shooting Test

The Texas LTC qualification is a 50‑round course of fire.

•  B‑27 silhouette target, it’s 24″X45″ inches big!
• You can use a revolver, or semi-auto that is at least a .22LR caliber
• No magnified optics on your pistol, that enhance vision. Dots are ok.
• Holsters are not allowed unfortunately. Shooting will be done from a barrel or a bench
• these are timed drills, I use a shot timer, when outdoors
• if you experience a malfunction, you must clear it in the times allowed or it will count as a “missed shot”
• Instructors are looking for safe handling mostly, it’s recommended to take a basic handgun class in front of a competent instructor, if you are nervous around handguns, we offer these online classes here for 60.00, contact us.https://TexasLTCtrainingacademy.com/services/nra-firearms-training/

You’ll shoot from three distances: It’s best to bring 100 rounds, to have extra for either practice or for a re-test. 

This will be a One-or two-hour appointment if you need some basic preparation before going on the range, ie safe handling, clearing malfunctions, etc.

3 yards – 20 rounds

• One shot X5 (in two seconds)

• Two shots X5 (three seconds) for each double tap

• Five shots X1 (ten seconds)

7 yards – 20 rounds

• Five shots X1 (ten seconds)

• Two shots X1 (four seconds) followed by three shots X1 (six seconds)

• One shot X5 (three seconds)

• Five shots X1(fifteen seconds!)

15 yards – 10 rounds

• Two shots X1 (six seconds) followed by Three shots X1 (nine seconds)

• Five shots X1 (fifteen seconds)

Scoring

• Maximum score: 250 points

• Passing score: 175 (70%)

• Anything inside of the 8 ring is a perfect score of 5 points, 4 points inside the 7 ring and 3 points for anywhere else inside of the silhouette, Easy!

The test focuses on:

• Safe firearm handling

• Basic accuracy

• Following range commands

Step 2: Choose the Right Handgun

Use a handgun you’re comfortable with and have practiced using.

Best practices:

• Choose a reliable handgun in good working condition

• Use quality factory ammunition, avoid reloads

• Practice with the same firearm you’ll qualify with

• Bring extra magazines or speed loaders if you want to practice reloading with your instructor

Tip: You can qualify with either a revolver or semi‑automatic pistol. Most students prefer a 9mm semi‑auto due to lighter recoil and easier reloads.

Step 3: Practice the Key Skills

You don’t need to be an expert shooter—but you should be comfortable with the basics.

Focus on:

• Proper grip and stance

• Sight alignment and sight picture

• Smooth trigger control (most important equal to grip)

• Safe loading and unloading (know these four safety rules.

Practice shooting at:

• 3 yards

• 7 yards

• 15 yards

Use the same B27 targets (Ideal) for practicing and have someone time you (to make sure you are shooting within time allowed.

Step 4: Know the Safety Rules

Many students worry about accuracy, but safety is the real priority. You could fail for unsafe gun handling even if your score is high.

Remember:

• Always keep the muzzle pointed downrange

• Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot

• Follow instructor commands exactly

• Keep the firearm unloaded until told otherwise

Your Texas LTC course will cover all required safety procedures.

Step 5: Prepare Before Range Day

Bring the following:

• Handgun

• At least 100 rounds of ammunition

• Eye and ear protection

• Extra magazines or speed loaders

• Valid ID

• Comfortable clothing for outdoor conditions, no open toed shoes, a hat, eye and ear protection

• Bring your LTC 100 or 101 certificate so your instructor can sign off that you successfully passed.

Arrive early, relaxed, and well‑rested and DON’T BE NERVOUS!

Step 6: Complete the Classroom Requirement First

Before you can take the shooting test, you must complete the classroom portion.

The fastest and easiest option is a Texas LTC online course, from our website here https://TexasLTCtrainingacademy.com/product/gun-class-online-texas-license-to-carry/which allows you to:

• Complete training at your own pace

• Learn Texas gun laws and use‑of‑force rules

• Receive your LTC‑101 certificate

• Schedule your range qualification when ready

Taking your classroom training online helps you arrive at the range confident and prepared.

Step 7: Tips to Pass on the First Try

• Practice slow, accurate shooting rather than speed

• Focus on smooth trigger presses and follow through with an effective grip.

• Take a deep breath before each string

• Listen carefully to commands

• Don’t rush—most misses come from shooting too fast

Most students find the Texas LTC qualification easier than expected.

Start Your Texas LTC the Easy Way

The first step to passing your proficiency test is completing a high‑quality Texas LTC online class.

Our online course is:

• Texas DPS approved

• Self‑paced and mobile friendly

• Fast and easy to complete

• Designed to prepare you for both the written and shooting portions

Enroll today and take the first step toward your Texas License to Carry.https://TexasLTCtrainingacademy.com/product/gun-class-online-texas-license-to-carry/

Phil Snyder-call me if you have any questions, 737-403-2441

Texas LTC Certified Instructor