LAWS YOU
SHOULD KNOW
Practical, day-to-day Texas law — the kind that comes up at the gun range, on the highway, and at the ballot box.
Carrying a Handgun
Texans 21+ may carry a handgun in a holster openly or concealed without a license. Federal gun-free zones, schools, polling places, and businesses with a 30.06/30.07 sign are off limits.
Traffic Stops
You must provide your driver license, proof of insurance, and registration. You are not required to consent to a vehicle search. If you have a handgun in the vehicle and an LTC, disclose if asked.
Knives
Location-restricted knives (blades over 5.5 inches) may not be carried into schools, polling places, courts, bars, sporting events, or correctional facilities.
Alcohol
Last call is 2 a.m. with a late-hours permit, otherwise midnight (Sun 12 a.m.). Sunday beer/wine sales begin at 10 a.m.; liquor stores are closed Sundays.
Castle Doctrine
Texas presumes reasonable force in your home, vehicle, or workplace against an unlawful intruder. No duty to retreat (Penal Code 9.31 to 9.32).
Open Records
The Texas Public Information Act gives you the right to request government records. Agencies must respond within 10 business days.
Recording Conversations
Texas is a one-party-consent state. You may record any conversation you are a party to.
Right-to-Work
No one can be required to join a union or pay dues as a condition of employment.
Homestead Protection
Your primary residence is largely protected from creditors. Urban homesteads are protected up to 10 acres; rural up to 100/200 acres.
Voter ID
Bring one of seven accepted photo IDs. Expired IDs are accepted up to 4 years (no limit if 70+).
For deeper legal context on major statutes, see Texas Laws Explained. This is not legal advice.