Becoming a licensed security officer in Texas follows a clear, state-regulated path: choose the right license level, complete a Texas DPS-approved training course, apply through the TOPS portal, and keep your license current with continuing education. This guide walks you through every step so you know exactly what to expect.
Important: Nighthawk Alliance LLC is a Texas DPS-licensed security training academy (License #F31198401). We provide the required training and instruction that prepares you to apply for a license. The license itself is issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Private Security Program, not by us. We are a training and consulting firm; we do not place graduates in jobs or provide guard, patrol, or security-staffing services.
Understand the license levels: Level II, III, and IV
Texas organizes security officer licensing into levels. The level you need depends on whether you will work unarmed, carry a firearm on duty, or provide personal protection.
Level II — Non-commissioned (unarmed) security officer
Level II is the foundational credential for working as an unarmed security officer in Texas. It covers the legal authority of a security officer, use-of-force basics, ethics, field-note taking, and public relations. The Level II course is the required starting point before you can move up to an armed license.
Learn more: Level II Security Officer Training
Level III — Commissioned (armed) security officer
Level III is the commissioned credential that authorizes you to carry a firearm while on duty. It includes classroom instruction plus a handgun proficiency component (range qualification). Because it builds on the unarmed fundamentals, Level II training is a prerequisite for the Level III course [verify with DPS/TOPS].
Learn more: Level III Security Officer Training — or save time and money with the bundled Level II + III Combo.
Level IV — Personal Protection Officer (PPO)
Level IV certifies you as a Personal Protection Officer (bodyguard / personal protection specialist). This is the advanced credential for close-protection work. You must already be a commissioned (Level III) security officer to take the Level IV course and apply for the PPO endorsement [verify with DPS/TOPS].
Learn more: Level IV Personal Protection Officer Training
Step-by-step: how to get licensed
- Confirm you meet the basic eligibility requirements (see below).
- Choose your license level based on whether you will work unarmed (Level II), armed (Level III), or in personal protection (Level IV).
- Complete the required DPS-approved training course with a licensed academy like Nighthawk Alliance. This is where you earn your certificate of completion.
- Submit your application through the TOPS portal and complete fingerprinting and the state background check.
- Receive your license from Texas DPS and begin working within the scope of your level.
- Maintain your license with continuing education and timely renewal.
Meet the basic requirements
Before you enroll, make sure you meet the general prerequisites set by Texas DPS. Exact rules can change, so confirm current criteria before you apply.
- Be at least 18 years old for a non-commissioned (Level II) license; armed (Level III) applicants generally must be older and meet firearm-eligibility rules [verify with DPS/TOPS].
- Be legally authorized to work in the United States.
- Pass a fingerprint-based criminal background check through DPS [verify with DPS/TOPS].
- Have no disqualifying criminal history or conditions that would bar licensure [verify with DPS/TOPS].
- For armed levels, meet all federal and state requirements to legally possess a firearm [verify with DPS/TOPS].
Take the required DPS-approved training course
Every license level requires completing a training course delivered by a DPS-licensed academy. Approximate course lengths are:
- Level II: a short foundational course [verify hours with DPS/TOPS].
- Level III: a longer course that includes classroom hours plus handgun proficiency/range time [verify hours with DPS/TOPS].
- Level IV: an advanced personal-protection course for commissioned officers [verify hours with DPS/TOPS].
We offer in-person training in the Dallas–Fort Worth / Tarrant County area, with select coursework available online at academy.nighthawkalliance.com.
Apply through the TOPS portal
Texas DPS processes security license applications through its online TOPS (Texas Online Private Security) portal. After you finish your course, you will:
- Create or log in to your TOPS account and start the application for your license level.
- Submit your training certificate and required documentation.
- Complete fingerprinting and pay the applicable state application and fingerprint fees, which are paid directly to DPS and its vendors [verify fees with DPS/TOPS].
- Wait for DPS to review and issue your license.
These state fees are separate from your course tuition. Your employer may also submit certain paperwork on your behalf once you are hired [verify with DPS/TOPS].
Maintain your license with continuing education
A Texas security license must be renewed periodically, and armed officers must re-qualify to keep their commission current. Staying compliant means completing the required continuing education (CE) and renewing before your license expires.
Learn more: Security Officer Recertification & Continuing Education
FAQ
How long does it take to become a security officer in Texas?
The training portion is relatively short—many students complete Level II coursework in a matter of hours or a single day, with Level III and Level IV requiring additional time for classroom and range instruction [verify hours with DPS/TOPS]. Beyond training, your overall timeline depends on how quickly you complete fingerprinting and how long DPS takes to process your TOPS application.
How much does it cost?
Total cost has two parts: your course tuition (which varies by level—see each course page for current pricing) and the state fees you pay directly to Texas DPS for the application, license, and fingerprinting [verify fees with DPS/TOPS]. We do not control the state fees, so budget for both when planning.
Do I need Level II before Level III?
Yes. Level II (unarmed) training is the foundation and is required before you can complete the Level III (armed) course [verify with DPS/TOPS]. If you know you want to carry a firearm on duty, our Level II + III Combo lets you complete both efficiently in one program.
How do I renew or recertify my license?
You renew through the TOPS portal before your license expires and complete any required continuing education; armed officers must also re-qualify on the range [verify with DPS/TOPS]. Our recertification & CE course is built to keep you compliant and current.
Do you help me find a security job after training?
No. Nighthawk Alliance is a training academy and consulting firm—we prepare you to earn your Texas license, but we do not place graduates in jobs and we do not provide guard, patrol, or staffing services. Employment is arranged separately with a licensed security company.
Ready to start your training?
Choose the level that fits your goals and enroll with a veteran-owned, Texas DPS-licensed academy. Explore Level II, Level III, the Level II + III Combo, Level IV PPO, or recertification & CE. Questions about which course is right for you? Contact us or call 682-285-9899—we are here to help you get on the right path to protecting your business, home, and family.