TexasCHLforum.com

Vic wrote:That is ENORMOUSLY helpful!!

If I can use everything except the filled-out form, and then simply put the DPS-packet form in the envelope with everything else when I send the application, the problem goes away! I do not have to show up at the class with the DPS packet, and I don't have to re-visit the instructor to get signatures and such on the DPS forms later. I feel much better now, thank you!
(I bet that, after learning all this and stressing myself out over it, the DPS packet will be in my mailbox when I get home...)

Vic, as a post script to my last entry, if you want to take at a look at(and print out if you want to) the forms/affidavits that the instructor will be handing out to you to be included in your packet, it's available on the DPS website here:
http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/forms/index.htm#chls" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

The forms you'll be needing:
1. CR-85 (Authorization For Release of Records Affidavit
2. CR-86 (Knowledge of Laws Affidavit)
3. CR-87 (Eligibility Affidavit)
You can also look at Instructions for CHL-85, CHL-86, CHL-87 Affidavits
Of course the Concealed Handgun Statutes & Related Weapons Laws(LS-16) which you'll be getting a copy of when the DPS packet arrives, can be printed as well.

I'd recommend that you keep the copy of LS-16 that your instructor gives you as well. That way you'll have 2 copies. One for the house. The other for the car. (I wish I'd have kept my extra copy.)

Good valid questions, Vic. Let's take them 1 at a time:

If I'm understanding this correctly, I can still TAKE THE CLASS, but I cannot use the forms that the instructor provides. I have NO IDEA what these forms are exactly that I cannot use (instead having to use the DPS forms in the packet that I have not received yet). The class I signed up for lists that they include "all forms, affidavits, notary, fingerprinting, and photos".

1. The forms that your instructor will hand out requiring a notary signature, are exactly the same as DPS will send you. Use the one's instructor hands out(assuming you haven't received the DPS application packet at time of class)
2. Of course you will have to use the photos they take in class. Regarding the fingerprint cards: use those as well. You have to(if you haven't received the DPS packet). That won't be a problem at all.

In fact you can use just about everything the instructor hands out EXCEPT the page(s) about personal information(name address, work history, criminal history, etc etc). THAT will already have been done for you by DPS when you applied online. [it's 5 pages btw, when you receive the DPS packet]

Sorry if I confused you. Please note the info on the link you posted from TCHA made statements I believe to be incorrect, as all of the forms & affidavits are identical EXCEPT the personal information pages.

With all that said, when in doubt ASK! Ask here, and if there's still some doubt call DPS. They are friendly and helpful. Explain your situation. I know I did before I took the class. I called down there at least 4 times that I can remember, AND asked dozens of questions here.

I'd be happy to list everything that I received from DPS in my application packet if you think it'd be of any benefit to you. I have copies of every scrap of paper I received in the application and class process. Even my qualification target!

MojoTexas wrote:

Vic wrote:So if mine follows the same timeline as yours, it will be next week before mine shows up in the mailbox.

Here's what I don't understand: My CHL class is this Saturday. If my DPS packet doesn't show up until after the class, how do I handle that situation? I cannot use the instructor-supplied forms and fingerprint cards. Can I just bring the packet to the instructor once it shows up (and still take the class even though my packet hasn't arrived)? Or, do I need to postpone the class until after the packet show up?

It is not really a hassle to take the class, skip their forms, and drive back up there once my DPS packet shows, since the class takes place at the gun range I practice in anyway, so the drive is not out-of-the-way.

I'd suggest calling your CHL instructor and asking them what they want you to do. They might even suggest postponing your class for a week or two until your packet arrives.

You don't need the packet DPS sends you to take the class. If anything I'd take the packet that the instructor gives you, take it home with you and just wait until you receive the packet from Austin.

I sure wouldn't postpone the class over it. You can't send in any paperwork until after the class anyway.

Don't be in any rush to get that packet off to Austin. It was 8 days after I took my class before I sent the packet in. And I applied online too.

Vic, have you verified that your cc has been charged? That seems like an awfully long time to be waiting for it!

I applied online on a Sunday, and had the packet the following Wednesday. And that was at the end of May/beginning of June when application approvals were running 4 and 5 months.

You might want to call them on Monday to see what's up.