Texas armed guard requirements

Commissioned Security Officer license · Last verified November 1, 2026

Not legal advice. This guide is general information, not legal or career advice. Licensing rules, hours and fees change and vary by state and employer. Verify every requirement with the issuing body before you enroll, apply or work.

Issuing agency

Texas DPS Private Security Program

Go to the official site

Requirements and training

Minimum age: Check with Texas DPS Private Security Program
Training and requirements: Level II course and test, plus the Level III course (minimum 45 hours) and test including a course of fire, at a licensed Level III school. Firearm proficiency must be shown within 90 days of applying.

Personal protection officers also need Level IV (15 hours).

Cost and time

Fees: Check with Texas DPS Private Security Program
Time: Check with Texas DPS Private Security Program

Renewal

Submit a firearms proficiency certificate (within 90 days of the renewal application) and complete 6 hours of continuing education.

Find Armed guard classes in Texas Jobs requiring Armed guard in Texas

Texas carry permit guide

Sources

www.dps.texas.gov/section/private-security/training-and-continuing-education

Last verified November 1, 2026. Where a field says "Check with", we couldn't confirm it from an official source.