Before applying to become a security guard in Texas, it’s important to understand the background and legal requirements set by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). Certain criminal convictions or personal history factors can disqualify an applicant from receiving a Texas security license.

Criminal History Disqualifications

• Felony or Class A Misdemeanor Convictions: A felony conviction or Class A misdemeanor will disqualify you from becoming a licensed security guard in Texas for 20 years from the date of conviction.

• Class B Misdemeanor Convictions: These offenses result in a five-year disqualification period, though certain exceptions may apply.

• Crimes Involving Violence, Theft, Weapons, or Dishonesty: Any conviction involving these offenses can also prevent you from obtaining a Texas security license.

Other Disqualifying Factors

• Firearm Restrictions: If you are under a restraining order or have specific misdemeanor convictions, you may be ineligible for a firearm permit required for armed security positions.

• Substance Abuse or Mental Health History: A documented history of substance abuse or mental instability can result in disqualification.

• Background Check: Every applicant for a security guard job in Texas must pass a comprehensive background check, which reviews all prior charges and convictions.

Where to Find Official Guidelines

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) regulates all private security officers in Texas and provides the most accurate, up-to-date list of disqualifying offenses. You can review detailed information in the Texas Administrative Code Rule §35.4, which outlines the specific criteria for disqualification.

Click to purchase the course.

To enroll in this course, participants must meet the following criteria:

• Age: Must be at least 18 years old.

• Legal Authorization: Must be a U.S. citizen or have valid authorization to work in the United States.

• Moral Character: Must demonstrate good moral character and general fitness.

• Background Check: Must pass a criminal background check by submitting fingerprints to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) through an approved vendor such as IdentoGO.

• Disqualifications: Individuals with felony convictions, certain misdemeanors, active warrants, or pending criminal charges are not eligible.

Click to purchase the course.

Step 1: Enroll Online
Sign up for the Level 2 Non-Commissioned Security Officer Course. The course is 100% online and self-paced.

Step 2: Complete the Training
Work through the required lessons covering Texas laws, security duties, and professional conduct.

Step 3: Pass the Final Exam
Finish the course and successfully pass the final exam to earn your certificate of completion.

Step 4: Receive Your Certificate
Download or receive your official Level 2 Training Certificate from TX Security Academy.

Step 5: Apply with the State
Use your certificate to apply for your Texas Non-Commissioned Security Officer License through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) via the TOPS online system.

Step 6: Get Licensed and Start Working
Once approved by DPS, you’re officially licensed to work as a Level 2 (unarmed) Security Officer in Texas.

Click to purchase the course.

This course provides the key skills and knowledge required to succeed as a security officer:

• • Foundations of Security: Understand the core duties, responsibilities, and role of a security professional.

  • Legal Guidelines: Learn how Texas laws and regulations apply to private security work.

  • Scope of Authority: Know your legal rights and limitations while on duty.

  • Emergency Preparedness: Gain strategies for responding to fires, medical situations, threats, and suspicious incidents.

  • Professional Communication: Build effective skills for interacting with the public, law enforcement, and supervisors.

  • Incident Documentation: Learn how to write clear, accurate reports that are essential to security operations.

Click to purchase the course.

• Office and building security
• Retail and shopping centers
• Event security
• School and campus security
• Hospitals and healthcare facilities
  

Click to purchase the course.

A Level 2 security guard in Texas is authorized to carry essential non-lethal tools for personal protection and job performance. These may include handcuffs and a flashlight, and in some cases, pepper spray or a conductive energy weapon—but only if the guard has the proper certification and employer approval. However, Level 2 security officers in Texas are not permitted to carry firearms or tasers, as those are restricted to Level 3 or Level 4 commissioned security officers.

Click to purchase the course.