TexasCHLforum.com

Here's the timeline so far with my CHL application:

6/6/05-overnight CHL application to DPS (USPS overnight)
6/7/05-CHL app received
...
6/27/05-received unsigned picture back from DPS
6/28/05-overnighted CHL picture back to DPS (USPS overnight)
6/29/05-CHL picture received
...
7/8/05-CHL PIN received
...

Should I call the DPS on or about 8/8/05 and remind them of the 60 day deadline? Would this be a good way to irritate a state employee slug into dropping my application behind a desk?!

Obviously some applications are quickly processed...

Great site. I enjoyed watching the posts while I was waiting. Here are my CHL processing times:

June 22, 2005: took CHL course and mailed application packet to DPS via USPS Express Mail.

June 23, 2005: DPS received packet (according to USPS tracking)

July 13, 2005: Received (in two separate mailings on same date) 1. my PIN and 2. my old fingerprint cards back for redo. I immediately went to the local Police station and had them redone at expense to me and returned them with the old cards (as required) to DPS. Returned via USPS express mail.

July 14, 2005: DPS received cards back (according to USPS tracking).

July 28, 2005: DPS websited states "license issued".

August 1, 2005: Received CHL in mail from DPS.

39 DAYS!! WOW!! Hope this is a sign of things to come for future applicants.

I have NO arrests, NO background issues, NO criminal problems whatsoever. I have lived in 2 houses in the last 5 years and have held 2 jobs. In both cases I have been in the current for 4 years. The only reason I bring this up is to point out that there should be no difficulty in the background checking process.

I would call. I have a client who is now at 92 days and no CHL. Nothing has been sent back, so there is no excuse. She refuses to call DPS, because she "doesn't want to be a bother."

Regards,
Chas.

A few years back at DPS instructor skul, they asked us to ask students not to call until the 60 days (plus normal mail time) had past, that such could be wasteful of everyone's time.

However, I've since had waaaaay too much feedback about applications that seem to have fallen in a crack. One of my fellow hunter ed. instructor's had the CCW when he lived in Florida and I know he was squeaky clean. After he had not heard diddly squat (except pin number) from 'em in well over 3 months last year, I insisted that he light 'em up. And his CHL arrived shortly thereafter.

While the internet stuff may be great for some, as a general rule, I'm old fashined enough to suggest to my students that they spend the $5 or whatever to send the important documents certified mail/return receipt requested - and keep copies of everything. And then if the CHL is not in their mailbox after about 65 days, they have hard evidence to support their gripe.

So yea, I'd agree with Chas. If you don't get it in hand by middle of this month, let 'em know who you are! But remember who they are.

tehlump wrote: 6/27/05-received unsigned picture back from DPS
6/28/05-overnighted CHL picture back to DPS (USPS overnight)
6/29/05-CHL picture received

they have until 8/29/05 to process your application. if you call or write them, that's the answer you will get. the 60 days starts over from the date they receive your picture back. i had the same issue with mine. i sent it in may 16. they sent the picture back june 19 saying my 60 days starts over from the date they get the picture back. i didn't overnight anything, but i just got my license july 28th. quite a bit sooner than i anticipated.

Before calling you might try sending an e-mail. That worked out for me. You may or may not get a response. I received a response whithin a couple of hours.

My situation was similar. Had photo sent back to sign.

thanks for the advice guys.

I'll call them around the middle of the month and check on the progress. I'll be ultra-polite and say pretty please with sugar on top.

Chris-you're the second person who's said that the DPS stated that your 60 days started over upon the submission of the missing documents. My letter said nothing of the sort. Did the letter requesting the missing documents state that the time period started over?

The administrative rules state that the 60 days begins with receipt of a "completed application." Hence the practice of keping the application 30 days or so, then kicking it back because the picture wasn't right, or the fingerprints weren't good enough.

Its my belief that DPS should have only a very few days to review the application to determine if its complete or not, then a set time within which the background check must be completed.

Here's the letter I sent. I didn't mention the picture fiasco...I'm sure they'll mention it in their reply!

Hello,

I would like to inquire about the status of my CHL application.

tehlump
TX DL# xxxxxxxx
1234 anywhere st
Huntsville, TX 77320

I sent in my application via USPS Overnight mail 6/6/05. I have confirmation that the packet was received on 6/7/05.

It is my understanding that Texas statute lists 60 days for processing time. As of 8/5/05 we are at 61 days and I have received no indication of my application being accepted or rejected. The website only states that the application is still being processed.

I would greatly appreciate your assistance.

Thank you,

OK, got a reply.

We received your signed passport photo holder on 07/05/05, that out your application in progress. Standard processing time is 60 days. So 60 days from 07/05/05 you should have a license.

Nice racket they have going on there. Hold on to new applications for 1 month before attempting to check for errors. Send back to applicant and your 60 days magically starts over. Oh yeah, not to mention they say they received it 8 days after USPS says they had it.

I'll be nice and not comment on the grammar.


:?

I guess my expectations should have been lowered a few notches. Dealing with any govt entity efficiently is an exercise in futility.