Texas DPS & TDLR Approved

Getting your guard card Texas employers recognize starts here. Security Guard School delivers 100% online, self-paced training that meets Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Private Security Bureau rules, from the entry-level Level 2 non-commissioned course to the Level 3 commissioned (armed) upgrade and the Level 4 personal protection officer track. You study on your schedule, pass the required exam, and get a certificate you can submit toward your state license without ever sitting in a classroom.

We are the online security guard school Texas guards return to when they want to move up. Below you will find exactly what a Texas guard card requires, how the Level 2, 3 and 4 licenses differ, what it costs, and how long the process takes, so you can pick the right course the first time.

State Approved Training Programs

Advance Your Career with
Certified Training

Choose the package that fits your professional development goals. The first 3 packages include state required certification.

State Required Certificate

$65 $85
  • ✓ State Required Guard Card Included
  • ✓ State Approved Training
  • ✓ No career enhancement electives
  • ✓ Redeem with 1 certificate credit  
MOST POPULAR

State Required Certificate + 1 Elective

$95 $125
  • ✓ State Required Guard Card Included
  • ✓ State Approved Training
  • ✓ Career Enhancement Elective
  • ✓ Boost Job Readiness
  • ✓ Redeem with 1 State credit and 1 Elective credit
Advanced

State Required Certificate + 3 Electives

$140 $205
  • ✓ State Required Certificate Included
  • ✓ State Approved Training
  • ✓ 3 Career Enhancement Elective
  • ✓ Boost Job Readiness
  • ✓ Redeem with 1 certificate credit and 3 elective credits   

Career Enhancement Electives are optional training courses taken in addition to your state required certification. Guards who complete electives earn approximately 23% more per hour than those who don’t. Examples include De-escalation Training, Power to Arrest, and Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD). Explore all electives

1 Elective

$35 $40
  • ✓ State Approved Training
  • ✓ 1 Career Enhancement Elective
  • ✓ Boost Job Readiness
  • ✓ 1 elective credit   

3 Electives

$90 $120
  • ✓ State Approved Training
  • ✓ 3 Career Enhancement Elective
  • ✓ Boost Job Readiness
  • ✓ 3 elective credits

5 Electives

$125 $200
  • ✓ State Approved Training
  • ✓ 5 Career Enhancement Elective
  • ✓ Boost Job Readiness
  • ✓ 5 Elective Credits   

Three Simple Steps to Get Started

  • Step 1
    Choose Your Package

    Start with the State-required certification, or bundle in 1–3 career enhancement elective to grow your skills and earning potential.

  • Step 2
    Complete Checkout

    Complete checkout in seconds. Your account instantly shows your available certification and career enhancement elective credits.

  • Step 3
    Redeem Your Credits

    Begin your state-required certification immediately. Use your career enhancement elective credits anytime to choose the specialty courses that help you qualify for better-paying posts.
Get Started

Courses Available in Guard Card Texas Training Online with Security Guard School

Texas Guard Card Guide

Guard Card Texas: Requirements, License Levels & Cost

In Texas a "guard card" is your Level 2 registration issued through the DPS Private Security Bureau. Here is everything you need to register, train online, and start working legally.

Who is eligible

  • Be at least 18 years old Legally authorized to work in the United States Pass an FBI and DPS fingerprint background check No disqualifying felony or certain misdemeanor convictions

What Texas DPS requires

  • Complete the Level 2 training course with a licensed school Pass the state Level 2 exam Get hired by or associated with a licensed security company Submit fingerprints and pay the DPS registration fee

Cost & timeline

  • Our online Level 2 course starts at $65 DPS registration and fingerprint fees are paid separately to the state Coursework is self-paced and most finish in a single day DPS processing typically takes a few business days after you apply

Texas Security License Levels Explained

Level 2

Non-Commissioned Officer

This is the standard unarmed guard card in Texas. Level 2 guards may not carry a firearm on duty. The 4-hour course covers your legal authority, patrol basics, and reporting, and it is the entry point for most security jobs statewide.

Level 3

Commissioned (Armed) Officer

Level 3 is the armed commission. It builds on your Level 2 registration and adds firearm and use-of-force training so you can work armed posts that pay noticeably more than unarmed roles.

Level 4

Personal Protection Officer

Level 4 is the top Texas credential for executive protection and bodyguard work. If you are researching how to get a Level 4 security license, you first hold a Level 3 commission, then complete the Level 4 personal protection course to qualify for close-protection assignments.

How to apply for your Texas guard card, step by step

  1. Enroll in the online Texas Level 2 non-commissioned course and finish it at your own pace.

  2. Pass the Level 2 exam and download your certificate of completion instantly.

  3. Accept a position with a DPS-licensed security company, which sponsors your registration.

  4. Submit fingerprints, your certificate, and the state fee to the DPS Private Security Bureau.

  5. Once approved, you are a registered Texas guard and can add career enhancement electives or upgrade to an armed commission whenever you are ready.

Ready to earn your guard card Texas hiring managers trust? Browse every state-approved option on our online Texas guard card classes page, or start with the Level 2 course above.

Explore Our Complete Library of Career Enhancement Electives

Your career path is unique, and your training should be too. With access to over 60 state-approved career enhancement electives, our package system puts you in control. After your purchase, you can redeem your credits for any course in our library—whether you’re fulfilling site requirements like Fire Safety or advancing into high-paying Executive Protection roles, all at your own pace.

Administrative
SPECIALTY CERT: PUBLIC RELATIONS - COMMUNITY & CUSTOMER (4 HOURS) SPECIALTY CERT: COMMUNICATION AND ITS IMPORTANCE (4 HOURS) SPECIALTY CERT: ID VERIFICATION TRAINING (1 HOUR) SPECIALTY CERT: LEGAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND USE OF FORCE (4 HOURS) SPECIALTY CERT: SITUATIONAL RESPONSE, RESPONDING TO & DOCUMENTING CRITICAL EVENTS (4 HOURS)
De-escalation / Use of Force
SPECIALTY CERT: DE-ESCALATION OF FORCE SPECIALTY CERT: LEGAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND USE OF FORCE (4 HOURS)
Emergency / Crisis Response
SPECIALTY CERT: DEFENSIVE DRIVING – DRIVER AND VEHICLE SAFETY (2 HOURS) SPECIALTY CERT: BASIC AND EMERGENCY FIRST AID (2 HOURS) SPECIALTY CERT: COMMUNICATION AND ITS IMPORTANCE (4 HOURS) SPECIALTY CERT: FIRE SAFETY AND FIRE WATCH TRAINING (1 HOUR) SPECIALTY CERT: SITUATIONAL RESPONSE II (4 HOURS) SPECIALTY CERT: SITUATIONAL RESPONSE, RESPONDING TO & DOCUMENTING CRITICAL EVENTS (4 HOURS)
Specialized / Advanced Skills
SPECIALTY CERT: DEFENSIVE DRIVING – DRIVER AND VEHICLE SAFETY (2 HOURS) SPECIALTY CERT: COMMUNICATION AND ITS IMPORTANCE (4 HOURS) SPECIALTY CERT: GENERAL DUTIES, WRITING REPORTS, & CONDUCTING PATROLS (6 HOURS)

Better training equals higher hourly rates

We Offer State-Required Certification

Get all the mandatory security training you need to qualify for work. Our certification courses meet state requirements and give you the foundational knowledge every guard must have to get licensed and hired.

+

Career-Enhancement Electives

Take your skills beyond the basics. Add optional career enhancement electives that strengthen your professionalism, expand your capabilities, and help you earn higher hourly rates than the average guard.

The only online security guard school

Built by security guards for security guards

that you will need to maximize your hourly earning potential.

On-Demand Learning

On-Demand Learning

Train anytime and anywhere at your own pace. Access all courses 24/7 so you can study whenever it fits your schedule.

Fully Convenient

Fully Convenient

Works seamlessly on phone, tablet, or desktop. No classrooms, no appointments. Learn your way instantly.

Easy & Accessible

Easy & Accessible

Clear lessons, intuitive navigation, and instant progress tracking. Designed to make learning simple for every future guard.

Cost-Effective Pricing

Cost-Effective Pricing

Affordable training with no hidden fees. Only pay for the career enhancement electives you choose, nothing extra.

Built to Meet Professional Security Training Standards

Every course we offer has been crafted to reflect the real requirements of the security industry. From foundational state-mandated training to advanced elective courses, our programs follow clear quality criteria, ensuring your learning is consistent, up-to-date, and job-ready.Whether you're preparing for state licensing, upgrading your skills, or working toward higher-level roles, our training gives you a strong, credible foundation.

Why Security Guard School is Better

Guards we get certified make more.

Security guard training isn't just about meeting state compliance; it is about establishing a competitive advantage in the job market. In today's security landscape, top-tier employers are actively seeking candidates who possess specialized skills beyond the basic Guard Card. By completing our comprehensive certification packages—which include essential career enhancement electives like Power to Arrest and De-escalation—you position yourself for the highest-paying roles in the industry. Whether you are targeting high-traffic retail environments or specialized private protection, our curriculum is specifically designed to maximize your hourly earning potential immediately upon hire.

  • Healthcare & Hospital Security: Commands higher pay for patient restraint and crisis intervention skills.
  • Corporate Office Protection: Professional "Class-A" environments requiring advanced access control knowledge.
  • Retail Loss Prevention: Active theft deterrence roles that pay significantly more than passive observation.
  • Event & Venue Security: Lucrative contracts for guards certified in crowd management and bag checking.
  • Construction Site Patrol: High-liability zones requiring specific asset protection and fire watch training.
  • Educational Campus Safety: Specialized positions mandating training in student interaction and campus patrol.

Our guards who take advantage of career enhancement electives make on average 23% more per hour.

Kevin Turner

Hear from Our Graduates: How Our Course Transformed Their Security Careers

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Dylan Grant

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Deshawn Carter

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Tyrone Brooks

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Marcus Bell

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Derrick Mason

Hear from Our Graduates: How Our Course Transformed Their Security Careers

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See How We Stack Up

Features Security Guard School ShieldForce Academy National GuardCert Network Sentinel Security Institute
Fully Online Courses ✓
Access from phone, tablet, and computer		 Limited Limited Limited
Nationwide Certification Coverage ✓
Coast-to-coast compliance		 X X X
Instant Certificate Download ✓
Download anytime, anywhere		 X X X
Specialty Certifications ✓
Expand your skills + pay		 Limited Limited Limited
Interactive Online Training ✓
Modern & mobile-friendly		 X Limited X
Real Human Support, 24/7 ✓
Chat, phone & email		 X Limited Limited
Built by Industry Pros ✓
Career-focused curriculum		 X ✓ X
Government-Sponsored Training ✓
Eligible for state programs		 Limited X Limited
Trusted by 100K+ Guards ✓
Proven results		 X Unknown Unknown

Frequently Asked Questions

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Will my security guard certification cover all cities and towns in Texas?

Our course certifies you for all of Texas, not just major cities like Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and El Paso

What qualifications do you need to become a security officer in Texas?

Most security guard jobs are entry level and typically require a high school diploma, 18 years of age and to pass an FBI background check within your TOPS application.  Individuals seeking an edge in hiring can pursue additional education such as an associate degree in criminal justice. Security guards must also be able to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.

What disqualifies you from being a security guard in Texas?

In Texas, there are specific disqualifying factors that can prevent someone frombecoming a security guard or obtaining a security license. These factors typically revolve around criminal history, legal status, and other relatedissues. Here are some common disqualifiers:1. Felony Convictions: Individuals with felony convictions are generallydisqualified from becoming security guards in Texas. This includes convictions for serious crimes such as murder, sexual assault, robbery, and other violent offenses.2. Certain Misdemeanor Convictions: While not as strict as felony convictions, certain misdemeanor convictions can also disqualify individuals from obtaining a security license. This may include offenses such as theft, assault,drug-related offenses, and crimes of moral turpitude.3. Pending Criminal Charges: Individuals who have pending criminal charges may bedisqualified from becoming security guards until their legal matters are resolved.4. Legal Status: Applicants must be legally eligible to work in the United States.Non-U.S. citizens who are not authorized to work in the country may be disqualified.5. False Statements or Omissions: Providing false information on the applicationor omitting relevant details about criminal history or other disqualifying factors can also result in disqualification.6. Mental Health Conditions: In some cases, individuals with certain mental healthconditions that could impair their ability to perform the duties of a security guard may be disqualified.The only permanently disqualifying crimes are a sexually violent offense, asdefined by Article 62.001, Code of Criminal Procedure, or a conviction forburglary of a habitation.It's important to note that the specific criteria for disqualification may varydepending on the employer, the type of security license being sought, and anyadditional requirements set by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) orother relevant authorities. Applicants should carefully review the eligibilityrequirements and disclose any relevant information truthfully on their application.

How much does it cost to take a Level 2 training course to become a security officer in Texas?

The cost for Texas on securityguardschool.com is $47.  The cost for a security guard training program online can range from $50-$100 and more for a classroom setting.

What are the levels of security guards in Texas?

There are three levels of security officers in Texas:Level 2 Non-Commissioned | Security OfficerUnarmed Security Guard Level 3 Commissioned Security | Officer Armed Security GuardLevel 4 Personal Protection Officers | Executive Protection/Bodyguard

Are Level 2 non-commissioned security guards allowed to carry a firearm in Texas?

No, non-commissioned security guards in Texas are not permitted to carry firearms while on duty.

How do I get my security guard license in Texas?

To become a licensed security guard in the state of Texas, you must first complete the Level II Training Course and pass the Level II state test. All non-commissioned and commissioned security officers must go through this training. The training must be taken at a licensed school and taught by a licensed instructor.

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