Understanding the knife laws in Texas is crucial for anyone carrying a knife, whether for personal use, work, or self-defense. The state has undergone significant changes to its knife regulations, particularly with the passage of House Bill 1935 in 2017. 
This landmark bill amended various sections of the Texas Penal Code, most notably § 46.01, bringing clarity to what types of knives are legal and where they can be carried.
The removal of the classification of “illegal knives” allows for the legal carry of most knives, but with some restrictions still in place. Whether you’re a resident of Texas or just visiting, it’s essential to be aware of the current rules to avoid legal complications.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key provisions of Texas knife laws, what types of knives are legal to carry, where you can carry them, and what the penalties are for violating these laws. We’ll also answer common questions that arise when it comes to knife ownership, carry rights, and enforcement. If you’re unsure about how Texas knife laws may affect you, this article will clarify everything you need to know.
What Does the Law Say About Knives in Texas?
Texas law outlines several key provisions regarding knife ownership and carry. These regulations are found in the Texas Penal Code, which was amended in 2017 to eliminate certain classifications of illegal knives. Here are the most significant aspects:
1. Blade Length Restrictions
Under Texas Penal Code § 46.15(b), knives with blades up to 5.5 inches are unrestricted for carry. This means you can legally carry these knives in most public spaces without facing legal repercussions.
However, knives with blades longer than 5.5 inches are subject to location restrictions. These knives cannot be carried in certain prohibited locations, such as:
- Schools
- Government buildings
- Polling places
- Businesses that sell alcohol (with sales over 51% of total revenue)
2. Minors and Knife Ownership
In Texas, it is a Class A misdemeanor to give a minor (someone under the age of 18) a location-restricted knife without parental consent. This is outlined in Penal Code § 46.06. The law prohibits minors from possessing certain knives, especially when those knives are classified as dangerous or are restricted from certain locations.
3. Open and Concealed Carry of Knives
One of the most important changes made by House Bill 1935 is the permission for both open and concealed carry of knives in most public areas. This is stated in Penal Code § 46.02. There are no restrictions on the number of knives you can carry or the type of knife you carry, as long as you adhere to the location restrictions.
4. Knives in Vehicles
When carrying knives in vehicles, the location restrictions still apply. This means that knives with blades longer than 5.5 inches cannot be carried near schools, government buildings, or other restricted locations. As per Penal Code § 46.15, if a knife is legally carried in a vehicle, it must still comply with these restrictions.
5. Types of Legal Knives
Texas law removes the designation of “illegal knives,” which means knives such as gravity knives, ballistic knives, and spring-assisted knives are legal to carry, provided they don’t exceed the 5.5-inch blade length restriction. However, knives that are classified as “clubs,” such as knuckle knives, are still illegal.
6. Knives Used in Self-Defense
Knives used for self-defense in Texas are treated similarly to other weapons in self-defense scenarios. You are allowed to use a knife for self-defense in situations where you are in immediate danger, but excessive use of force can lead to criminal charges. Understanding the legalities of self-defense is critical.
Key Knife Types and Their Legal Status in Texas
Here are a few common knife types and whether or not they are legal in Texas:
– Pocket Knives
- Legal: As long as the blade is no longer than 5.5 inches, pocket knives are legal to carry without restrictions.
– Switchblades
- Legal: Switchblade knives are now legal in Texas under House Bill 1935, provided they meet the blade length restrictions.
– Bowie Knives
- Legal: The iconic Texas Bowie knife is legal to carry in Texas, as long as the blade does not exceed the 5.5-inch restriction, and the knife is not carried in prohibited areas.
– Karambit Knives
- Legal: These knives are legal for carry under the same conditions as pocket knives, as long as the blade length is below 5.5 inches.
Penalties for Violating Knife Laws in Texas
Violating Texas knife laws can lead to serious penalties. The most common penalty for illegal knife possession is a Class A misdemeanor, which can carry a sentence of up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000. Carrying knives in restricted locations can also lead to legal consequences, including arrests, fines, and possible imprisonment.
FAQs About Knife Laws in Texas
- What size knife is legal to carry in Texas? Knives with blades of 5.5 inches or less are legal to carry without restrictions, as per Penal Code § 46.15(b).
- Can I carry a knife with a blade longer than 5.5 inches? You can carry a knife with a blade longer than 5.5 inches, but only in non-restricted locations, such as private property or places that do not serve alcohol.
- Are there restrictions on where I can carry a knife? Yes, location restrictions apply. Knives with blades over 5.5 inches cannot be carried in schools, government buildings, hospitals, or businesses with alcohol sales exceeding 51%.
- Can I give a knife to a minor? You can give a minor a knife, but not if the knife exceeds 5.5 inches or is considered location-restricted, without parental consent. This is a Class A misdemeanor.
- Is it legal to carry a concealed knife in Texas? Yes, you can carry a concealed knife in Texas, as long as it complies with location restrictions and the 5.5-inch blade length.
- Can I carry a knife in my car in Texas? Yes, you can carry knives in your vehicle, but they must comply with the same location restrictions that apply to public carry.
- What are the penalties for violating knife laws in Texas? Violating Texas knife laws can result in a Class A misdemeanor charge, fines, and up to a year in jail.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Texas knife laws are relatively lenient when compared to other states, especially after the 2017 amendments to the Texas Penal Code. Most knives with blades shorter than 5.5 inches can be legally carried without restrictions.
However, there are still important location restrictions to keep in mind, particularly when it comes to carrying knives in schools, government buildings, and alcohol-serving establishments. If you’re carrying a knife for self-defense or personal use, make sure it is legal to carry in your location, and remember that minors cannot possess certain knives without consent.
For anyone interested in knife ownership in Texas, it’s crucial to stay updated on the latest laws and regulations. Always refer to the Texas Penal Code for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Call to Action
Are you planning to carry a knife in Texas? Make sure you’re well-informed on the state’s laws to stay compliant and avoid penalties. Stay updated on Texas knife laws by visiting official legal resources or consulting an attorney if you have specific concerns.