Texas has some of the most permissive knife laws in the United States, but there are important distinctions and restrictions to understand, especially regarding pocket knives.
Definition and Legal Blade Length
- Pocket Knife Definition: In Texas, a pocket knife is generally defined as any folding knife with a blade length of 5.5 inches or less.
- Legal to Carry: Adults (18 and over) can legally carry pocket knives (blades 5.5 inches or shorter) anywhere in Texas, either openly or concealed, with no restrictions on the number or type of knives.
Location-Restricted Knives
Blades Over 5.5 Inches
Knives with blades longer than 5.5 inches are classified as “location-restricted knives.” While adults can own and carry these knives, they are prohibited in certain locations, including:
- Schools and educational institutions
- Polling places
- Government buildings and courts
- Airports (secure areas)
- Correctional facilities
- Hospitals and mental health facilities
- Amusement parks
- Places of worship
- Bars or businesses deriving 51% or more revenue from alcohol sales
- Within 1,000 feet of an execution facility on execution days.
Penalties:
Carrying a location-restricted knife in a prohibited area is typically a Class C misdemeanor (punishable by a fine up to $500), but carrying one on school premises is a felony, with penalties up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Age Restrictions
Adults (18+)
- May carry any legal knife, including location-restricted knives, except in prohibited locations.
Minors (Under 18)
- May own and carry pocket knives (5.5 inches or less) without restriction.
- Cannot carry location-restricted knives unless on their own premises, en route to a vehicle/boat, or under direct supervision of a parent/guardian.
- Providing a minor with a location-restricted knife without parental consent is a Class A misdemeanor.
Statewide Preemption
Uniform Law: Texas law preempts local ordinances, meaning cities and counties cannot impose stricter knife laws than those set by the state, except in rare cases such as emergencies or for specific municipal employees.
Summary Table: Texas Pocket Knife Law
| Category | Legal Status for Adults | Legal Status for Minors | Location Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pocket knives (≤5.5 in) | Legal anywhere | Legal (with some limits) | None (except schools, etc.) |
| Knives (>5.5 in) | Legal, but restricted | Restricted | Prohibited in specific locations |
Key Takeaways
- Adults can carry pocket knives (blades ≤5.5 inches) almost anywhere in Texas.
- Knives with blades over 5.5 inches are legal to own and carry, but not in certain restricted places.
- Minors face additional restrictions, especially with larger knives.
- Violations can result in fines or, in some cases, felony charges.
Always check for updates to the law and be mindful of location-based restrictions to avoid legal trouble in Texas.
Sources:
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/texas/
- https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-texas-understanding-your-rights-and-restrictions/
- https://versustexas.com/blog/illegal-knives/
- https://texascriminaldefensegroup.com/understanding-texas-knife-laws/
- https://kniferights.org/hb-1935-bottom-line/