As far as the one-hour, online class to get a VA license, we have to remember that an out-of-state license does not come with the same privileges. A VA CHL will not exempt you from the NICS check in purchasing a firearm in Texas. So, an out-of-state licensee needs to make sure they know all the laws/regulations about Texas CHL. So why not just spend the few extra bucks, jump through a few more hoops, and get a TX CHL. You get what you pay for.
But as I said, I don't think anyone should have to take a class. So, I'm kind of riding both sides of the fence. Just trying to practice my rights in the environment in which I have them, while supporting the path to open carry.
TBM