Tech campuses, data centers, state facilities and a downtown that fills up every weekend — Austin employers increasingly want commissioned officers on the schedule. Level 3 is what a commission requires.

The Short Version

A security officer commission is the credential that lets you carry a firearm while working security in Texas. To get one, Texas Administrative Code §35.141(a)(2) requires the Level 3 training course — and the same course is required for personal protection officers. The course runs in two parts: an online portion you can complete from anywhere in Travis County, and an in-person portion at a range.

Part 1 Is Online at ETXSTA

The first half is the classroom material, and ETXSTA delivers it 100% online. You cover the law that governs an armed security officer, use of force, and the professional obligations that come with the commission, then sit the written exam. If you are already working a post — badge desk at a tech campus, overnight at a distribution site — this is the part you can knock out without giving up shifts.

Part 2 Is Hands-On

The second part covers defensive tactics, firearms handling and a firearms proficiency exam. It has to be in person, and it is scheduled separately — the online course price covers the online training only, not the qualification.

What the Qualification Looks Like

In format it is almost the same as the Texas License to Carry proficiency exam, so LTC holders tend to be comfortable with it. The one addition worth knowing about is the shotgun course of fire written into the commissioned officer rules — students have the option to qualify with a shotgun.

A Detail Worth Checking Before You Pay Anyone

Level 3 course material is prepared by and obtained from DPS, and it can only be taught by a DPS-approved school using a DPS-approved instructor. Level 2 can be taught in-house by a licensed company’s designated person. Level 3 cannot. If someone offers to certify you outside that framework, walk away.

Two Numbers and Two Certificates

• 75% — the minimum passing grade on Level 3 and Level 4 school examinations under §35.144(c). Not 70%; that is the License to Carry written test.
• Two certificates — §35.81(a) requires copies of both your Level 2 and Level 3 certificates of completion with the commission application.
• PSP 30 — the certificate of completion you receive at the end of this course.

Enroll From Austin

ETXSTA is a DPS-approved school. Start the online portion today and schedule the range portion when it suits your rotation.