So I want to start shooting as both a hobby and for self-defense purposes, but I really have no idea what I'm doing or how to start. I've noticed that some gun ranges offer Basic Instruction classes, but they seem on the expensive side. Are these classes worth the money or are there cheaper alternatives? Also, is it necessary to have a concealed handgun license if I would just be keeping the gun at home and occasionally taking it to the range?
You can get basic safety classes from the NRA for much cheaper. Decide what type of hobby you want in the handgun for instance Bullseye Pistol or IDPA and go from there. In Texas you don't need a CHL to own or transport a handgun in your car.
Handgun instruction for concealed carry is not something you really want to go cheap on. I would advise going beyond the basic NRA course.
I suggested he get basic safety class then decide how to proceed. And the NRA has tons of high quality courses.
And I suggested he not use price as a criteria for choosing handgun instruction. Otherwise he will end up shooting kids with skittles. Some NRA courses are "high quality", some are not so "high quality". That really depends a lot on the instructor. AFS, Check the web for specific reviews of any particular course you're interested in. That should give you an idea of what you're getting into. Look for something that gives you at least 8 hrs range time with a one to one instructor-student ratio.
That is a pretty insane level of a suggestion. Would be pretty awesome but I doubt many people dedicate to that level when first entering a hobby.
