Ever considered a career where you're on the front lines, protecting people and property? Texas boasts a large and diverse security industry, with a constant need for qualified security professionals. Obtaining your security guard license in Texas is your entry ticket to this dynamic field, opening doors to opportunities in retail, corporate security, event management, and much more. But navigating the licensing process can be tricky, with specific requirements and regulations set by the Texas Department of Public Safety.
A valid security guard license not only allows you to legally work as a security officer in the Lone Star State, but it also demonstrates your commitment to professionalism and competence. Employers are far more likely to hire licensed guards, knowing they have met the required training standards and background checks. Furthermore, possessing a license allows you to carry out your duties with greater confidence and authority, ensuring you can effectively respond to various security situations and maintain public safety.
What are the steps, costs, and qualifications required to become a licensed security guard in Texas?
What are the basic requirements for a Texas security guard license?
To obtain a security guard license in Texas, you must generally be at least 18 years old, a legal resident of the United States authorized to work in the US, have no disqualifying criminal history, complete required training courses from a state-approved training school, and submit a completed application to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Private Security Bureau, along with the necessary fees.
The Texas DPS Private Security Bureau is responsible for regulating and licensing security guards in the state. The "no disqualifying criminal history" requirement is crucial and refers to convictions or deferred adjudications for certain crimes that would make an individual unsuitable to hold a position of trust and authority. This includes felonies and certain misdemeanors as outlined by the DPS. A thorough background check, including fingerprinting, is part of the application process to verify this requirement. The required training courses vary depending on whether you are applying for a Level II (unarmed) or Level III (armed) security guard license. Level II training covers basic security principles, observation techniques, and report writing. Level III training includes the Level II curriculum, plus firearms training, range qualification, and legal aspects of using deadly force. Successful completion of these courses from a licensed training school is mandatory before you can apply for your license. You'll need to show proof of completion as part of your application package.How much does it cost to get licensed as a security guard in Texas?
The cost to get a security guard license in Texas varies depending on the type of license (Level II or Level III) and the training provider you choose, but you can generally expect to pay between $75 and $200. This range includes the fees for the required training courses, fingerprinting, and the application fee to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
The primary expenses are associated with the mandatory training. A Level II non-commissioned security officer license requires a basic course, and the cost for this typically ranges from $50 to $100. A Level III commissioned security officer license involves more extensive training, including firearms proficiency, and thus the cost is higher, usually between $125 and $200. These prices can fluctuate based on the training school's location, reputation, and any included materials or services. Beyond the training, you'll also need to factor in the cost of fingerprinting, which is required for a criminal background check. This typically costs around $35 to $50. Finally, the Texas DPS charges an application fee for the license itself, which is currently $25. Therefore, adding these costs to the training fees will give you a more complete picture of the total expense.What kind of training is required for a Level II security guard license in Texas?
To obtain a Level II security guard license in Texas, you must complete a mandatory Level II training course from a state-approved training school. This course covers the fundamentals of security work and lasts approximately four to six hours.
While the Level II training is relatively short, its curriculum is crucial for new security guards. It focuses on the basic duties and responsibilities associated with being a security officer in Texas. The course typically includes instruction on topics such as the role and responsibilities of a security officer, observation techniques, report writing, basic security procedures, and legal aspects relevant to security work in Texas. This training ensures that all licensed security guards possess a foundational understanding of their duties and are prepared to handle basic security tasks. Successful completion of the Level II training is a prerequisite for applying for a Level II license with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Private Security Bureau. Upon finishing the course, the training school will provide you with a certificate of completion, which you will need to submit along with your license application. It is important to choose a reputable and DPS-approved training school to ensure that the course meets the required standards. The DPS maintains a list of approved schools on its website.Where can I find approved security guard training schools in Texas?
You can find a list of approved security guard training schools in Texas on the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Private Security Bureau (PSB) website. The PSB maintains a regularly updated list of all licensed training schools and instructors authorized to provide the required Level II, Level III, and Level IV training courses needed for security guard licensing.
To locate approved schools, navigate to the DPS PSB website and look for sections dedicated to "Training Schools" or "Security Officer Training." You'll typically find a searchable database or a downloadable list that includes the school's name, location, contact information, and the types of training courses they offer. Be sure to verify that the school's license is current and that they offer the specific level of training you require for your desired security guard license (Level II for unarmed, Level III for armed, Level IV for personal protection officers). Before enrolling in any training program, it's wise to contact the school directly to confirm course schedules, pricing, and any specific prerequisites they might have beyond the minimum requirements set by the DPS. Also, consider reading online reviews or seeking recommendations from other security professionals to gauge the quality of instruction and the school's reputation. Choose a training school that aligns with your learning style and career goals to ensure you receive the best possible preparation for your security guard career.How long is a Texas security guard license valid for?
A Texas security guard license, once issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Private Security Bureau, is valid for two years from the date of issuance. This applies to both Level II (unarmed) and Level III (armed) security guard licenses.
To maintain the ability to work as a security guard, you must renew your license before it expires. The DPS typically sends renewal reminders, but it is ultimately the security guard's responsibility to track the expiration date and initiate the renewal process. Failing to renew on time will require you to go through the licensing process again, including completing the required training and submitting a new application.
The renewal process typically involves submitting a renewal application, paying the required renewal fee, and completing any required continuing education or refresher courses, especially for Level III armed guards. It's crucial to check the specific requirements on the DPS Private Security Bureau website closer to your expiration date, as requirements can change. Submitting your renewal application well in advance of the expiration date is advisable to avoid any lapse in your licensing.
Can I get a security guard license in Texas with a criminal record?
It depends on the nature and severity of the crime. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) regulates security guard licenses and considers criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Certain convictions, especially violent crimes or those involving moral turpitude, will likely disqualify you, while others may not.
The DPS generally reviews the type of offense, the date of the conviction, and the applicant's overall criminal history when determining eligibility. Automatic disqualifications often include convictions for felonies such as murder, robbery, aggravated assault, and sex offenses. Misdemeanors can also be disqualifying, particularly if they relate to theft, fraud, or violence. Even if a conviction occurred many years ago, it can still be considered, although the DPS may give more weight to more recent convictions. To determine your eligibility, it is best to apply for the license and allow the DPS to conduct a background check. You can also submit a request for a pre-determination of eligibility to the Regulatory Services Division of the DPS before investing time and money into training. This involves providing documentation related to your criminal history so the DPS can assess your specific situation and provide an opinion on your potential eligibility. Honesty is crucial throughout the application process, as withholding information can lead to automatic disqualification.What is the process for renewing a Texas security guard license?
Renewing your Texas security guard license involves completing a renewal application online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Private Security Bureau (PSB) website, paying the required renewal fee, and ensuring you meet all eligibility requirements, including having completed any required continuing education.
To maintain your active security guard license in Texas, you must submit a renewal application before your license expires. The DPS will send you a renewal notice approximately 90 days before your license expiration date as a courtesy, but it is ultimately your responsibility to track your expiration date and initiate the renewal process. You can renew your license online through the DPS PSB's licensing portal, which requires creating an account if you don't already have one. During the renewal process, you'll need to verify your personal information, ensure there have been no changes that would disqualify you from holding a license (such as criminal convictions), and pay the applicable renewal fee. The fee is typically the same as the initial application fee for the specific license type, but it is best to confirm the current amount on the DPS website. Certain Level III and Level IV license holders may need to complete continuing education requirements related to firearms proficiency to renew their license. Be prepared to provide documentation of completing any necessary training if required. Failure to renew your license before the expiration date will result in it becoming inactive. Continuing to work as a security guard with an expired license is a violation of Texas law. If your license expires, you may be able to renew it within a certain grace period (typically one year), but it may involve additional fees or requirements. After the grace period, you may need to reapply as a new applicant, which would entail completing the full initial licensing process again.So there you have it! Getting your security guard license in Texas might seem like a lot at first, but breaking it down makes it totally manageable. We hope this guide has been helpful and cleared up any confusion. Thanks for reading, and we wish you the best of luck in your security career. Come back and visit us again soon for more helpful tips and resources!