Shooting Fun Starts with Training

Shoot Smart offers training classes from beginner to advanced.

The Path to Proficiency

We want to share our love of shooting with anyone who has an interest in learning. And we want every Shoot Smart customer to experience maximum enjoyment and satisfaction from their gun ownership.


That’s why we developed the Path to Proficiency (shown below).


Our certified instructors share invaluable insights and knowledge with you to make sure you have a great experience every time you come in.

path to proficiency arrow

PRIVATE LESSONS

Learning to use a firearm with a group of strangers can be intimidating. Or maybe you’d rather train at a faster pace. Book a one-on-one lesson with a Shoot Smart certified coach or instructor for a customized learning experience.

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LICENSE TO CARRY

The License to Carry process can be confusing and stressful. Let our state-certified instructors guide you through the process. Over 10,000 students chose Shoot Smart for their license. Let us guide you, too.

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GROUP CLASSES

Schedule a private class for your group. Great for church groups, businesses, friends/family, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or any other group.

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Handgun Classes

Marksmanship

Defense

Training Packages

License to Carry

Why You Should Get an LTC

You may be asking yourself: “If I am a law-abiding person and I can now carry a handgun without a license, should I get my Texas LTC?” The resounding answer is YES. There are many circumstances where acquiring and renewing your LTC are beneficial and necessary in some instances.

  • Texas law gives LTC holders more rights
  • Reciprocity
  • Federal gun-free school zones
  • Fast Lane for firearm purchases
  • School district employees
  • LTC holders are entitled to more notice at some prohibited locations
  • The statutory prohibition against carrying a handgun into a bar does not apply


Download our PDF for more details

What You'll Learn

The License to Carry process can be confusing and stressful. Let our state certified instructors guide you through the process. Over 10,000 students have chosen Shoot Smart for their License. Let us guide you, too.

You will learn:

  • Open carry law
  • Concealed carry law
  • Use of force laws
  • Where you can and cannot carry
  • Non-confrontation strategies


Prerequisites: This class does not teach handgun use. You must be proficient with your firearm to be able to pass the shooting test.


Class Fee: $75


Required Equipment:  Handgun and 50 rounds of ammunition. Ammo is available for purchase the day of class. PLEASE NOTE:  Students who are 18-20 years old must bring their own handgun and ammunition. We recommend bringing note-taking materials. There is no lunch break, but you are welcome to bring drinks and snacks to class.


Recommended Book:  Buy the LTC class book with lots of room for taking notes.

What's Next?

So you've signed up for the LTC class, now what? Follow these simple steps to complete the application process and prepare for class.

1. Complete LTC application

Complete the required LTC application online here.*

2. Get fingerprints/background check

Schedule your required fingerprinting appointment here. * When prompted, enter service code 119Q91.

3. Take Shoot Smart Texas LTC Class

Book your LTC Class here.

4. Submit LTC-104 form

Once you have taken the class and passed both the written and shooting test, all that remains is to submit your class completion certificate (LTC-104 form) online here.

5. Get LTC in the mail

Wait patiently for your new license to arrive in the mail.

6. Consider US LawShield

Consider signing up for peace of mind and legal protection with US Law Shield. With USLS, an attorney will answer your emergency call ANYTIME. In your greatest time of need, you’ll have immediate access to an actual attorney when you have an emergency. That’s anytime – even if it’s 3 a.m. on a holiday morning. No answering service, no call center representatives here or overseas. With USLS, you’ll be talking with an actual attorney who is critically important to you in gaining timely professional advice with attorney-client privilege. Sign up now to join the over 700,000 members strong US Law Shield family.

7. Keep Practicing

Keep practicing with one of these classes:

Questions About the LTC

Answered by LTC certified instructors

  • Who is eligible to obtain an LTC?

    Shoot Smart will allow people 18-20 years of age to take our LTC classes. Customers 18 - 20 cannot legally rent a handgun or purchase handgun ammunition from us until they are 21 years of age.


    Shoot Smart does not grant licenses, that’s a matter for the Texas Department of Public Safety. In the case you take the class and apply, the State can deny your application until age 21.

  • What's the difference between Texas LTC and LTC Proficiency?

    The Texas LTC class covers open and conceal carry laws that you MUST know. Includes a written and 50-round shooting test. 


    The LTC Profeciency class is designed for students who have completed the Online Texas LTC class and need to complete the Handgun Proficiency portion of the class. 

  • How often do I need to renew my LTC? How do I renew?

    Your original LTC is good for 4 years, and each renewal after that is good for 5 years. If your license expires, you are now carrying under permit-less carry. You also have up to 12 months to renew the license before you have to re-take the class.


    To renew your LTC click here.

  • How long does it take to get my LTC?

    Once you have passed the LTC exams and submitted your LTC-104 form, you will receive your license in 8-12 weeks in the mail. 

  • What do I need for class?

    *Completing the LTC application and fingerprinting is not required before your class date. But, completing them before class does streamline the application process. 


    - Handgun 

    - 50 rounds of ammo (Available for purchase.) 

    - Writing utensil

    - Valid Driver's License

    - Shoot Smart LTC Book with plenty of note-taking space. (Recommended) 

  • Can I use a red dot or optic?

    •  Optical enhancers mounted on the pistol that has an ability to magnify or zoom the shooters field of view are not allowed. (Example: scoped sight or attachment that magnifies the target)
    • Optic systems that do not provide any zoom capability but offer a sighting system within the optics are allowed.  (Example: red dot or holographic)

Instructors

Andrew Bailey

Andrew Bailey

Various Locations

Teaches:  Private Lessons, New Shooter, On Target, Troubleshooting, Rapid Fire, Holster Draw, Home Defense, Self Defense, Lights Out, Action Pistol, Elite Pistol, LTC, LTC Proficiency, Draw from Concealment, Level 3 Holster Draw, Defensive Pistol Shooting, Low Light Shooting, Basic to Advanced AR-15, Defensive Shotgun, & Youth Shooters


Availability:

* Alliance:  Thursday & Friday

* Grand Prairie:  Tuesday

* Fort Worth East:  Monday

  • About Andrew

    After spending time as a USMC combat engineer, Andrew joined the Shoot Smart family in 2017. He quickly became a great instructor sharing his vast knowledge from his experience in the Marines, numerous courses, and certifications. Andrew is especially good at helping students take their LTC skills to the next level and work on concealment methods and defensive pistol tactics. In addition, he feels called to train others so that they can protect themselves and their loved ones should they ever need to. Andrew is one of two Shoot Smart instructors to become a USCCA certified instructor in Concealed Carry & Home Defense and Defensive Shooting Fundamentals.


    INSTRUCTOR Q&A


    Why do you enjoy shooting?


    Shooting has always been something I understand and pick up quickly. I enjoy the challenge of constantly refining my skills mentally and physically. I have always felt a call to protect people by training myself and others so that they have the skills and confidence to be in charge of their own safety and to protect their loved ones.


    What is your favorite part about teaching lessons?


    I probably get more excited than my students do when I see the improvement and leaps forward they take. I enjoy developing a close relationship with my students so that I know them and can be of better service to their needs. My favorite thing is receiving thank you cards as well as whole families that come in together to learn and knowing that you have made a difference in their lives.


    #1 safety tip


    Respect firearms but do not fear them. Learning everything you can builds knowledge and confidence in order to handle them safely in all situations.

Chip Bulkeley

Chip Bulkeley

Fort Worth West

Teaches:  Private Lessons


Availability:  Lessons by appointment and requests only

  • About Chip

    Chip has over 35 years of shooting experience and firearms maintenance. He is knowledgeable and personable with his students and peers alike. Chip will create an enjoyable training experience for all his students.


    INSTRUCTOR Q&A


    Why do you enjoy shooting?


    I enjoy shooting for the camaraderie and challenge.


    What is your favorite part about teaching lessons?


    Seeing the students' eyes light up when they reach understanding.


    #1 safety tip


    Treat all guns as if they are loaded.

Laurie DiPalma

Laurie DiPalma

Grand Prairie

Teaches:  Private Lessons


Availability:  Mondays and Tuesdays by request only

  • About Laurie

    Laurie specializes in teaching and training all new shooters, especially women who feel more comfortable learning from another woman who understands their hesitations regarding firearms. Her calm and comforting demeanor and teaching style instantly puts people at ease and paves the way for training success. She is a mother with a unique passion for teaching women and men the basics of firearms and firearm safety. Laurie believes that building confidence through education and hands-on experience is the foundation of responsible gun ownership. She takes the time to explain every step with patience and clarity, ensuring her students fully understand not only how to handle a firearm, but also when and why they might need to. Her goal is to transform fear and uncertainty into confidence and preparedness. Learning the tools necessary to defend yourself and your family—and knowing you are capable of doing so without panic—is an empowering and life-changing skill that Laurie loves to pass on to others. Her instruction goes beyond the shooting range; it instills a mindset of awareness, responsibility, and resilience. Whether working with first-time shooters or those looking to refine their skills, Laurie is dedicated to creating a positive, respectful, and empowering learning environment for every student she meets.


    INSTRUCTOR Q&A


    Why do you enjoy shooting?


    I enjoy challenging myself to keep learning and pushing myself to do things I never thought I could.


    What is your favorite part about teaching lessons?


    Empowering others to feel confident while shooting.


    #1 safety tip


    Always treat all firearms as if they are loaded whether you think they are or not.

Charlie Duffy

Charlie Duffy

Alliance & Grand Prairie

Teaches:  Private Lessons


Availability:  Lessons by appointment and requests only

  • About Charlie


Joyce Gould

Joyce Gould

Benbrook

Teaches:  New Shooter, Intermediate & Nervous Shooters, Accuracy, Malfunctions, Rapid Fire, Holster Use, Find Your Fit, LTC Prep, Basic AR-15, Semi-Automatic Pistols & Revolvers, Field Stripping, & Cleaning Your Pistol


Availability:  Sunday through Thursday

  • About Joyce

    Joyce is originally from Wisconsin but has lived in a variety of states. She grew up around firearms and learned at an early age how to respect them. She took her first shot when she was 10 years old, shooting her dad’s .22 hunting rifle. Joyce comes from a law enforcement, military and hunting family. Joyce herself has never been in law enforcement or the military – her career before Shoot Smart was with the newspaper industry in sales, marketing and training. Since joining Shoot Smart in May of 2017, Joyce has worked to enhance her shooting and training skills, and firearm knowledge. She is an NRA Range Safety Officer and NRA Certified Pistol Instructor. Besides being one of our private instructors, Joyce teaches New Shooter, On Target, Trouble Shooting and Rapid Fire for our Path to Proficiency classes. She is also certified to teach Texas License to Carry classes. Joyce especially enjoys working with new shooters, and seeing them experience their very first shot. This can be an empowering and life-changing moment. It can also be a scary and startling moment, but Joyce strives to take away some of the scary through education. She enjoys seeing the progress of her students as they develop their shooting skills. Joyce takes pride in helping students understand how firearms work and how to handle them safely and confidently. Outside of Shoot Smart, Joyce enjoys  reading, traveling, photography, and genealogy research about her family.


    INSTRUCTOR Q&A


    Why do you enjoy shooting?


    I like how shooting challenges me mentally and physically. It also provides me with a way to protect myself or my family if that situation ever arises. Plus, it’s a fun sport!


    What is your favorite part about teaching lessons?


    I love it when my students want to continue building their skills and schedule additional private lessons, or enroll in a class. Learning to shoot is not a one and done. It takes time to develop shooting skills, and to keep them current.


    #1 safety tip


    Keep your firearm pointed in a safe direction, and keep you finger off the trigger until you are on target and ready to shoot.

Bradley Hodges

Bradley Hodges

Benbrook

Teaches:  Private Lessons, New Shooter, LTC, & LTC Proficiency


Availability:  Lessons by appointment and requests only

  • About Bradley

    Bradley joined the ShootSmart team in November 2013, bringing his extensive training with the NRA as a certified instructor for Chief Range Safety Officer, NRA Basic Pistol, and Personal Protection in the Home. He is also licensed by the State of Texas to teach the License to Carry (LTC) and as a Level III Firearms Instructor. In addition, he is a certified instructor for Rangemaster and the Modern Samurai Project. He has also  trained with Palisades Training Group, Green Ops, and PressCheck Consulting and is a certified Glock armorer. Much of Bradley’s experience comes from his 30 years as a public servant where he managed the Taxpayer Advocate Bureau for California’s largest tax agency. As the Taxpayer Rights Advocate, he managed groups responsible for federal reporting, tax settlements, information security, business reporting, tax advocacy, and legislation. Bradley has a passion for teaching new shooters to help them better understand firearms and how to properly use them while increasing their shooting ability.



    INSTRUCTOR Q&A


    Why do you enjoy shooting?


    I have always enjoyed the challenge of shooting accurately.


    What's your favorite part about teaching lessons?


    I love sharing my passion with others and watching them gain confidence and increase their skills with firearms.


    #1 safety tip


    Treat every firearm as if it’s loaded.

David Holcomb

David Holcomb

Benbrook

Teaches:  Private Lessons


Availability:  Lessons by appointment and requests only

  • About David



Paul Kuper

Paul Kuper

Benbrook

Teaches:  New Shooters, LTC Prep, Rapid Fire, Holster Use, Home Defense, Church Safety Team, Firearm Proficiency, Moving & Shooting, & Competition Training


Availability:  Lessons by appointment and requests only

  • About Paul

    Paul joined Shoot Smart in October of 2022. He is a native Texan, a certified NRA basic pistol instructor and Range Safety Officer. Paul grew up on a ranch shooting BB guns, and eventually a .22 caliber rifle and 12 gauge shotgun. His love of firearms grew when he was introduced to the action pistol sports and he spent the better part of two decades as an IDPA and USPSA competitor.  Paul is constantly practicing and training to improve his own skills. 


    INSTRUCTOR Q&A


    Why do you enjoy shooting?


    I enjoy shooting because I love that there is always something I can learn or improve.



    What is your favorite part about teaching lessons?


    Seeing the joy and excitement that new shooters experience when they make their first shots, and I love to see the smile on shooters’ faces when they hit the bullseye for the first time.



    #1 safety tip


    Use a barrel block to practice dry-fire safely at home.

Joe Loza

Joe Loza

Alliance

Teaches:  New Shooters, LTC Prep, Rapid Fire, Holster Use, Home Defense, Increasing Accuracy Under Stress, Low Light Shooting, Moving & Shooting, & Competition Training


Availability:  Sunday through Friday

  • About Joe

    Joe Loza joined the ShootSmart team in March 2011, bringing over 13 years of experience as a US Army Veteran. Joe was selected and spent six months in Kuwait as a Range Safety NCO, he led and trained soldiers in the safe and effective use of firearms in preparation for movement into Iraq. Joe's military service also includes more than five years in the Middle East in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In addition to his military expertise, Joe is an NRA-certified Chief Range Safety Officer, NRA Basic Pistol Instructor, and a NRA Refuse to Be a Victim Instructor. With a strong passion for both Personal and Home Defense, Joe is dedicated to providing high-quality instruction to shooters of all levels. Whether working with beginners or helping students advance their skills, Joe offers a patient, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic training experience. Joe’s diverse training background includes extensive firearms and tactical knowledge. He is one of two ShootSmart instructors who has been USCCA certified in Concealed Carry & Home Defense and Defensive Shooting Fundamentals. Over his 13 years at ShootSmart, Joe has instilled confidence in hundreds of students, helping them develop safe and effective firearms skills. When he’s not involved in all the activities of Shoot Smart, Joe enjoys spending time with his family. He’s available for private instruction and is consistently training our trainers. 


    INSTRUCTOR Q&A


    Why do you enjoy shooting?


    I enjoy the challenge as well as the confidence it builds to protect yourself and others if necessary.


    What's your favorite part about teaching lessons?


    I love giving others the confidence and excitement that comes with increasing their shooting skills.


    #1 safety tip

     

    Always keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire.

Christian Nelson

Christian Nelson

Alliance

Teaches:  Private Lessons


Availability:  Lessons by appointment and requests only

  • About Christian


Robbie Ray

Robbie Ray

Grand Prairie

Teaches:  Private Lessons


Availability:  Lessons by appointment and requests only

  • About Robbie

    Robbie specializes in teaching and training new shooters. He really focuses on educating every student, teaching firearm function and safety. He has been shooting for over 7 years and has his LTC. Robbie spends his time working on defensive training and accuracy. He also loves to shoot for fun and is always taking his time to test different firearms. His humor and positive energy put people at ease while they are at the range. Robbie continues to take additional training courses to expand his own knowledge and better assist his students.



    INSTRUCTOR Q&A


    Why do you enjoy shooting?


    It’s fun shooting different firearms and it brings me a sense of peace.


    What is your favorite part about teaching lessons?


    Taking the time to help people get comfortable with a firearm while simultaneously spreading safety and firearm knowledge.


    #1 Safety tip


    Keep you finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot in a safe direction.

Brendan Summers

Brendan Summers

West

Teaches:  Private Lessons


Availability:  Lessons by appointment and requests only

  • About Brendan

    I have had familiarity with guns my whole life but I started taking my training and knowledge seriously back in 2020. All of my training comes from a civilian, average person standpoint, just like many of the new shooters we get to Shoot Smart. Training as a civilian is different than training as a soldier or law enforcement, making my perspective on learning firearms very similar to many of the students I hope to teach. 



    INSTRUCTOR Q&A


    Why do you enjoy shooting?


    I enjoy shooting because it’s a physical discipline with a lot to learn. It’s a great way to have fun, relieve stress, and is very practical for the real world.


    What's your favorite part about teaching lessons?


    The confidence people gain from my instruction; it makes me feel like I make a real impact.


    #1 safety tip


    Always treat the firearm as if it is loaded and ready to fire.

Christian Nelson

Thuong Thai

Various Locations

Teaches:  LTC & LTC Proficiency

  • About Thuong


Scott Thornton

Scott Thornton

Various Locations

Teaches:  Private Lessons & New Shooter

  • About Scott


Ernest Ward

Earnest Ward

Benbrook

Teaches:  Private Lessons & New Shooter

  • About Earnest

    Earnest has been involved in shooting activities for most of his life. He received his first firearm (a shotgun) when he was ten, began shooting skeet in junior high, and started shooting handguns competitively in high school. In addition to his proficiency with an extensive range of handguns, shotguns, and rifles spanning a period of over 60 years, Earnest has a keen passion for teaching with over 45 years experience helping others achieve their training goals - first as an FAA-certificated flight instructor, FAA Accident Prevention Councilor, and FAASTeam Drone Specialist; later as a classroom and field instructor at the high school and college/university levels (Earnest holds both BFA and MFA degrees.); and currently as a firearms and personal safety instructor. Earnest is an NRA Basic Pistol Instructor, NRA certified Chief Range Safety Officer, former Texas certified Level III Security Officer Firearms Instructor (Handgun and Shotgun), NRA certified Refuse To Be A Victim Instructor, and an NRA designated Expert Marksman.



    INSTRUCTOR Q&A


    Why do you enjoy shooting?


    I’ve been shooting for so long that asking that question is almost like asking, “Why do you enjoy breathing?” But I guess I could answer that question by saying that it’s given me a lifetime of fond memories: of honing skills; of early mornings in the woods (with all those wonderful sights, sounds, and smells); of the camaraderie of other shooting sports enthusiasts; and (on a couple of occasions) thwarting individuals who meant others harm.


    What’s your favorite part about teaching lessons?


    I enjoy helping others find the firearm that is their perfect fit; instilling in other shooting enthusiasts the vital importance of gun safety; developing their marksmanship skills; and helping clients to discover the FUN to be found in shooting sports.


    #1 safety tip


    Obey ALL firearm safety rules ALL the time.

Want to reach a specific instructor or have a question about training? Contact us directly at info@shootsmarttx.com.

Hear from Our Students

Private Group Classes

Learning a new skill is always more fun with friends! Gather your group and schedule a private class today. Whether you're part of a church group, gym crew, large family, or just a bunch of friends looking for a new challenge, we've got something for everyone—from novice to advanced learners. 

Inquire About Private Group Classes

Contact Us

Policies

  • Cancellation policy:

    • Students may reschedule a class, lesson, or event once without losing the registration fee upon providing Shoot Smart with a cancellation notice of at least 24 hours prior to the course.
    • Bookings canceled within 24 hours or students who “no show” are ineligible to receive a refund.
    • Customer cancellations can be made in-store, online, or by calling any Shoot Smart location.
    • Customers will receive a full refund or equivalent account credit in the case that Shoot Smart cancels due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

  • Refund Policy:

    Shoot Smart will issue refunds for unused services within 30 days of purchase, with a receipt or valid customer profile. Gift cards, Lane Bundles, and services that have been canceled or rescheduled are not eligible for a refund. Class and lessons will expire after one year from the date of purchase.


    Credit or Debit refunds must be issued to the original credit or debit card listed on the receipt. If that card is no longer available; credit will be issued to the customer’s Momence account for the full value of the return. Momence account credit may be used to purchase other training classes, private lessons, or memberships. Momence account credit may not be used on in-store merchandise or range time.