CHL pre-application form still required?

[skeezix]

When I got my CHL back in 1996, there was a "pre-application" form which I completed and sent to the DPS. They did a preliminary "qualifications/background" check, then sent me the actual CHL application package.

Is that "pre-application" form still required, and is it the same as the current on-line form here? http://www.texasonline.state.tx.us/NASA ... AppManager

[Crossfire]

You no longer send in a card requesting an application. And the "pre-qualification" was just your self-reported answers.

You can start the application online at the website you mentioned, if you wish, or you can just get the package from your instructor. If you already have a class selected, I would call the instructor first to make sure they have application packages.

[skeezix]

Thanks, Mr. Watson.

My daughter in League City asked about about how to go about getting her CHL, and I had only my first hand experience of 12 years ago to rely on. I'll just tell her to go to the website and follow the instructions.

Lorin

[seamusTX]

Ms. Watson.

If I may suggest Tom Estep in Texas City as an instructor, your daughter can go to his class and fill out a paper application without going through the state web site. Or she can register online, pay upfront, and get a PIN right away.

Info: http://www.texasshooting.com/TexasCHL_F ... ?f=6&t=127

- Jim

[skeezix]

Ms. Watson. Sorry about that.

Jim, thanks for your reply.

Is Tom Estep a "one-stop" shop? That is, everything that needs to be done can be done in his class - notary, finger prints, photos, etc.?

Lorin

[seamusTX]

Yes, Tom runs a turnkey class. Students just need to bring their ID, handgun, ammo, etc. He even provides pens.

You could mail your application on the way home from class, though I recommend making photocopies of everything first.

- Jim

[Crossfire]

Ms. Watson. Sorry about that.

Jim, thanks for your reply.

Is Tom Estep a "one-stop" shop? That is, everything that needs to be done can be done in his class - notary, finger prints, photos, etc.?

Lorin

Hey, no problem, I've been called much worse!

And, yes, in South Texas, go see Tom. In North Texas, come see me!

[LarryH]

Yes, Tom runs a turnkey class. Students just need to bring their ID, handgun, ammo, etc. He even provides pens.

You could mail your application on the way home from class, though I recommend making photocopies of everything first.

- Jim

I believe that, if you make prior arrangements, you might be able to use one of his guns to qualify. He'd probably charge you for a box of ammo, though.

My stepson took Tom's class last Saturday, and used my wife's Rock Island 1911. Tom admitted to being "a 1911 freak" and asked if he could shoot it. Collin told him "Sure". As I previously reported, he shot the Beretta .380 I used for the course in November. That was also my wife's gun (I didn't have a carry gun yet).

[seamusTX]

That is correct. If you ask nicely, Tom will let you shoot one of his many fine pistols

- Jim

[57Coastie]

That is correct. If you ask nicely, Tom will let you shoot one of his many fine pistols

- Jim

Tom is not only a fine guy, but he is a fine instructor. It is my pleasure to shoot with him generally weekly.

Jim (a different Jim )