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Powered by DefencifyAlways verify directly with your state licensing agency
Regulatory IntelligenceLoading Copilot
Powered by DefencifyAlways verify directly with your state licensing agency
State Overview
Texas DPS runs one of the most streamlined security licensing systems in the US through the TOPS online portal. Level II (unarmed) licensing can be fully completed online, while Level III (armed) and Level IV (personal protection officer) require in-person firearms components. Texas has the second-largest private security workforce in the US.
Texas has the second-largest private security workforce in the US, concentrated in Houston (energy sector security, port security), Dallas-Fort Worth (corporate campus security, major event venues), Austin (tech campus security, government facilities), and San Antonio (military contractor security, tourist district security). The state's energy sector creates unique demand for pipeline security, refinery security, and offshore platform security.
Key Facts
Three license levels: Level II (unarmed, 6 hrs), Level III (armed commissioned, 45 hrs), Level IV (PPO, 66 hrs)
Level II can be completed FULLY ONLINE through DPS-approved providers
Level III/IV: non-firearms portions may be online; firearms course of fire must be in-person
Level IV (PPO) was restricted to in-person only since June 2022
All applications through TOPS portal at dps.texas.gov
Declaration of Psychological Health required for Level III/IV applicants
6-hour CE per renewal for commissioned (Level III) officers; 2-year license cycle
eLearning, initial
Full online permitted
eLearning, renewal
Training Hours
6 hrs Level II; 45 hrs Level III
Renewal: 2 years
License Fee
$35 Level II
3-5 weeks
Governing Agency
Texas DPS - Private Security Program
TX Occupations Code Chapter 1702
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using non-DPS-approved training providers, always verify the provider's DPS approval number
Forgetting the psychological health declaration for Level III applications
Attempting to complete Level IV PPO training online (restricted to in-person since June 2022)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Texas Level II security license completely online?
Yes, Texas DPS fully permits online training for the Level II (unarmed) license through approved providers. You can complete all 6 hours online through Defencify or other DPS-approved schools.
What is the psychological health declaration for Texas armed guards?
Texas requires Level III (armed) and Level IV (PPO) applicants to sign a Declaration of Psychological Health, attesting that they have no mental health conditions that would disqualify them from carrying a firearm. This is separate from the license application and must be signed by both the applicant and a supervisor.
How long does Texas security license processing take through TOPS?
TOPS processes most applications within 3-5 business days for Level II. Level III takes 1-2 weeks due to the additional background checks. The TOPS portal provides real-time application status updates.
Practical Tips
TOPS portal provides real-time status, check your application status daily during processing
DPS Provider ID number must be verified before enrolling in any training, the approved provider list changes
Level III/IV: collect all documentation (psychological health declaration, firearms qualification records) before starting the TOPS application
Defencify offers DPS-approved Level II online training through defencifytraining.com
Recent Regulatory Changes
Texas DPS increased enforcement activity for unlicensed security guards in 2026: higher administrative penalties for operating without Level II/III credentials, more frequent audits of security companies, and enhanced cooperation with county sheriffs. Security company principals now subject to personal liability for employing unlicensed guards.
TOPS (Texas Online Private Security) portal updated, streamlined Level II online application flow; improved document upload interface; reduced processing time from 5-7 weeks to 3-5 weeks for complete applications.
See the "Regulatory Changes" tab for full history →