Guard Card Texas Training Online with Security Guard School

How to Get Your Texas Guard Card Online

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.

Scroll down to pick your course — and to see exactly what to do after your training is complete.

State-approved training

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

Explore our electives

Our guards who take advantage of career enhancement electives make on average 23% more per hour. Each elective is a short, state-approved course in a skill employers pay more.

Every elective is $35.00

How it works

Get Started in 4 steps

  1. Purchase the course

    Pick your state course, or a card renewal if your card is running out. (Electives are optional: de-escalation, first aid, report writing, and they qualify you for better-paid posts.)

  2. Complete the training

    Study online at your own pace, on any device. Start the minute checkout is done and pick up wherever you left off.

  3. Get your certificate

    Finish the course and download your certificate of completion, the proof your state board or your employer asks to see.

  4. Get licensed and hired

    In most states you then apply to the state agency for your guard card: certificate, fingerprints, background check and the state fee. Then start applying for posts.

Licensing is set state by state. A few states, Alabama and Colorado among them, issue no state guard licence at all, and some require the application to be filed through the security company that hires you. Each course page lists what your state asks for.

After your training

Texas Security Guard License: What to Do After Completing Your Training

Texas regulates the private security industry through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), Private Security Program.

If you have completed your Texas security guard training, the next step depends on the type of security registration you are seeking. This page focuses on the unarmed/non-commissioned security officer process.

  1. Step 1: Complete Your Level II Training

    Applicants for a Texas non-commissioned security officer registration must complete the required Level II training.

    Texas DPS states that non-commissioned security officer applicants must submit a Level II Training certificate.

  2. Step 2: Complete the Required Application

    Submit your individual security officer application through the current Texas DPS Private Security Program process.

  3. Step 3: Complete Your Fingerprint-Based Background Check

    Texas uses fingerprint-based background checks as part of the private security licensing process.

    Follow the current DPS instructions for completing your fingerprint submission.

  4. Step 4: Complete Any Required TOPS Requirements

    Follow the current Texas DPS instructions for the required training and registration documentation, including any applicable TOPS requirements.

  5. Step 5: Wait for Your Registration to Be Processed

    Texas DPS will review your application, background information, and required documentation.

    Do not assume that completing Level II training by itself means you are licensed.

    Texas does have specific rules concerning when an applicant may work while an application is pending, including employer background-check requirements. If you are considering working before your registration is issued, confirm the current requirements with your employer and Texas DPS.

Important: Security licensing requirements can change. The information on this page is provided as a general guide. Always verify current requirements, applications, fees, and deadlines with the official licensing authority for your state before submitting an application or beginning work.

From our graduates

Hear From Security Guards Who Started Here

Thousands of working guards took their first course with us. Here are a few of them, in their own words.

  • Kevin Turner

  • Dylan Grant

  • Deshawn Carter

  • Tyrone Brooks

  • Marcus Bell

  • Derrick Mason

The state standard

Built to Meet Professional Security Training Standards

Every course is built to what the job actually asks for, from the state-mandated basics to the advanced electives, and kept current as the rules change.

Before you enroll

Frequently Asked Questions

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 $49.99. 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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