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A complete step-by-step guide to getting licensed as a security officer in Texas — from training requirements to submitting your DPS application.
Not looking for a DPS licensing course?
Our online Certified Security Officer, Supervisor/Manager and Director courses, Workplace Violence Prevention and Interview & Interrogation training are available across Texas.
To become a Texas security guard, you must complete required training and obtain licensing. The Texas Department of Public Safety regulates security guards and enforces strict requirements, especially for those carrying firearms on behalf of a private security firm.
| License Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Texas Level II Security Guard License (Unarmed) | $40 |
| Texas Level III Security Guard License (Armed) | $225 |
| Texas Level IV Personal Protection Officer Endorsement | $350 |
Complete Security Training USA
We are a DPS-Approved Security Training School, licensed by the Texas Department of Public Safety, Private Security Board (PSB), ensuring all training meets state requirements. Students can complete required training online or in person at their own pace.
Important: Students must submit their own application and materials to DPS. We provide guidance, but all submissions must be completed by the student.
Everything you need to know about Level II, Level III, and Level IV training — prerequisites, course topics, length, and certification.
The Level II course is the entry point for individuals seeking to become licensed as a non-commissioned (unarmed) security officer in Texas. This training provides the legal knowledge and practical skills necessary to perform security duties safely and professionally.
Approximately 6 hours (minimum required by Texas DPS).
Students receive a Certificate of Completion required for the Texas non-commissioned security officer licensing process.
Level III prepares licensed security officers to work as commissioned (armed) security officers in Texas. The course combines classroom instruction with firearms proficiency training.
Approximately 45 hours of classroom and range instruction.
Students who successfully complete classroom instruction and firearms qualification receive documentation required to apply for a Texas Commissioned Security Officer registration.
The Level IV course is designed for commissioned security officers seeking to perform personal protection (executive protection/bodyguard) services in Texas. The training focuses on protecting individuals exposed to elevated security risks.
Approximately 15 hours (minimum required by Texas DPS).
Successful completion satisfies the training requirement for applying for a Texas Personal Protection Officer endorsement through the Texas DPS Private Security Program.
Browse all DPS-approved Texas courses and use the filters to find the right training for you.
Six steps from enrollment to working as a licensed security officer in Texas — Level II (unarmed), Level III (armed), or Level IV (personal protection).
Level II covers the Texas Private Security Act, report writing, and patrol techniques (approx. 6 hours). Level III covers firearms safety, use of force, Texas laws, and self-defense tactics per H.B. 3424, effective January 1, 2024 (approx. 45 hours including range instruction). Level IV covers executive protection, threat assessment, and motorcade operations (approx. 15 hours). Upon completion, students receive a certificate for the completed portion.
Level III students must complete in-person firearms and defensive tactics training separately. Range qualification must be completed with a certified instructor. The online certificate must be signed off after qualification. Level II and Level IV do not require firearms qualification.
Submit: Certificate of completion, Range qualification documentation (Level III), Fingerprints and background check, and Required fees. Level IV applicants apply for the Personal Protection Officer endorsement. Applications are completed through the Texas DPS TOPS system.
There are no prerequisites to enroll in the online course. Licensing prerequisites for each level are listed in the training levels section above.
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Browse our DPS-approved Texas courses and begin your training today.