El Paso sits a long way from most Texas training providers. That is exactly why an online Part 1 changes the math on getting commissioned.

What a Commission Gets You

A security officer commission is what allows a Texas security officer to be armed on duty. It opens up posts that are simply closed to non-commissioned officers — logistics and warehousing along the corridor, industrial sites, healthcare facilities, and contract work that specifies armed coverage. Texas Administrative Code §35.141(a)(2) requires the Level 3 training course for anyone seeking that commission, and for personal protection officers as well.

Part 1 Travels With You

ETXSTA delivers the first part of the Level 3 course 100% online. For El Paso students that is the whole classroom component handled without a nine-hour drive: the law governing armed security work, use of force, and the responsibilities that come with carrying on a post, followed by the written exam.

Part 2 Is In Person — and Booked Separately

The remainder covers defensive tactics, firearms handling and a firearms proficiency exam. That has to happen face to face. Budget for it as a separate item — the online course price covers the online training only, and the in-person qualification is scheduled on its own.

The Range Test, Briefly

It closely mirrors the Texas License to Carry proficiency exam. The commissioned officer rules add a shotgun course of fire, so students may also qualify with a shotgun if that fits the work they are heading into.

Check the School, Not Just the Price

Level 3 material is prepared by and obtained from the Texas Department of Public Safety, and it can only be taught by a DPS-approved school with a DPS-approved instructor. That rule is stricter than Level 2, where a licensed company may use its own designated person. A Level 3 certificate from anywhere outside that framework will not support a commission application.

Pass at 75%, Then File With Both Certificates

School examinations for Level 3 and Level 4 require a minimum grade of 75% under §35.144(c). Once you pass you receive your certificate of completion (PSP 30) — and when you apply for the commission, §35.81(a) requires copies of both the Level 2 and Level 3 certificates.

Get Started

ETXSTA is a DPS-approved school and the online portion is available to El Paso students right now.