My son lives in Texas and works in down town Austin. He does not have his CHL-yet. Is it legal for him to travel in state with a handgun concealed in his vehicle? I told him it was legal under the Texas Castle doctrine. Legal or no? Thanks

It is, but it could end up costing him if he gets pulled over by an overzealous cop.

I agree on the over zealous cops. Austin must be the most leftist city in the south. The do have some communist cops in Travis county.

I sure wouldn't leave a pistol in my car in downtown Austin, or in some pretty nice neighborhoods there, either.

quote:

Originally posted by buggsboy:
My son lives in Texas and works in down town Austin. He does not have his CHL-yet. Is it legal for him to travel in state with a handgun concealed in his vehicle? I told him it was legal under the Texas Castle doctrine. Legal or no? Thanks

Is it really covered under TX Castle doctrine? I don't know anything about TX laws I'm in LA.
In LA you can have it anywhere in your vehicle just not concealed on your body without a CHP.

I read through the Texas gun laws again. I think it is legal, but it's hard to understand the weasel word lawyer talk used. I think you're good anywhere except maybe Austin. The catch is, as I read it, you're ok as long as you and the handgun stay in the vehicle. No leaving your car with it. I'm am hoping a lawyer chimes in. My apologies to lawyers about my reference to legal language.

The castle doctrine was expanded to cover your vehicle, and workplace, any recreational vehicle that could be considered a dwelling, RV boat etc. The way the handgun class instructors teach it is you are good to carry from your home/dwelling to your vehicle and place of employment. So carrying outside of those 3 places would be illegal.

This was clarified several years ago under the concept of "traveling" with a handgun. The law states that the weapon must be concealed, you must not be gang affiliated, and you must not be engaged in illegal activity. This is true throughout the state, even in Austin.

Motorist Protection Act. It's 100% State of Texas legal. Only problem is the federal Safe School crapola.

More info at: handgunlaw.us

"Anyone who can legally possess a firearm can carry it in a vehicle in Texas. If you do not have a
License Texas Issues or a Permit/License Texas honors the firearm must be concealed and can’t be on your
person. It can be in the Glove Box, Console or hidden from view but not on your person."