Shotgun Ownership in Texas: Licensing Requirements Explained

In Texas, no state license is required to purchase or possess a standard shotgun. However, federal law regulates certain firearms under the National Firearms Act (NFA):

• Short-barreled shotguns (barrel <18 inches or overall length <26 inches) are classified as NFA weapons.
• Acquiring these requires a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) permit, including a $200 tax stamp, background check, and registration.
• Standard shotguns with barrels ≥18 inches and overall length ≥26 inches are not NFA items and can be bought without special federal permits (though background checks via FFL dealers still apply).

Always verify current state and federal regulations before purchasing.