Texas handgun license applicants and instructors will soon have a new online system to handle applications, renewals, and course management as the Texas Department of Public Safety prepares to launch a revamped licensing platform.

DPS’ Regulatory Services Division announced it will roll out RSD Connect, a new online licensing platform intended to enhance the state’s License to Carry program experience for applicants, license holders and instructors. The platform is set to go live on Oct. 1, 2026.

Through RSD Connect, License to Carry customers will be able to apply for, renew or check the status of their handgun license online. Instructors will be able to create and manage handgun licensing courses.

DPS said there will be scheduled downtime of online services as data is moved to the new platform. The last day to submit an application is Sept. 12, 2026, and the last day to submit supporting documents for an existing application is Sept. 14, 2026. Beginning Oct. 1, 2026, users can visit the DPS website to log in to the new licensing platform, and LTC applications will resume.

DPS said RSD Connect is designed to unify the applicant and staff experience across licensing, eligibility, compliance and enforcement into a single platform that will span all RSD programs.

In addition to the License to Carry program, DPS said the Capitol Access Pass program will also move to RSD Connect in 2026. The Capitol Access Pass provides expedited access to the Texas State Capitol through the main public entrances and was adopted in 2011. DPS said applications and renewals for Capitol Access Pass licenses will be submitted and processed through RSD Connect.

DPS said additional programs are expected to launch on RSD Connect in 2027, including the Vehicle Inspection and Ignition Interlock Device programs.

DPS said more than 1.4 million Texans will use RSD Connect to manage and renew their license to carry a handgun. The agency said the platform is intended to provide a modernized user experience, streamlined processing, enhanced transparency with real-time visibility into application statuses, and centralized reporting across RSD programs.

More information can be found at the Texas DPS Website.