How to Become a Commissioned (Armed) Security Officer in Texas: Step-by-Step Guide
Armed Security Officer Training at United States Security Academy (USSA)
- Written by Deltacon Admin
- Published
- 3 min read
Commissioned Security Officer
A Commissioned Security Officer license lets you work armed in Texas private security. It requires more training, a firearms qualification, and a renewal process that includes continuing education every two years.
Here is how to get commissioned and how to renew.
Note: Requirements change. Confirm current rules with Texas DPS Private Security before applying. Certain peace officers may be exempt from some training requirements.
What does a Commissioned Security Officer do?
Commissioned officers perform the same observe-and-report duties as unarmed officers but are authorized to carry a firearm on duty. They’re often assigned to higher-risk posts such as banks, critical infrastructure, cash handling, and specialized sites.
Training required
Level II course and test (about 6 hours)
Level III course and test, a minimum of 45 hours, including a firearms course of fire
The Level III course must be taught by a licensed Level III instructor at a licensed Level III training school.
Step-by-step: getting commissioned
Complete Level II first. It is required for commissioned officers.
Complete the Level III course and pass the test and course of fire. Instruction covers firearms safety, use of force, and legal responsibilities, plus live-fire qualification.
Demonstrate firearm proficiency within 90 days of your application date.
Meet the additional commissioning requirements. Armed applicants face stricter eligibility standards. Confirm the current list with DPS.
Apply through your employing licensed company and the DPS TOPS portal https://tops.portal.texas.gov/psp-self-service/login/auth. with fingerprints and required documents.
Receive your commission and pocket card before working armed.
Step-by-step: renewing your commission
Complete 6 hours of continuing education from a DPS-approved school, taught by a licensed Level III instructor.
Complete a firearms proficiency demonstration within 90 days of your renewal application date.
Submit your firearms proficiency certificate with your renewal application.
Indicate on your renewal that you completed the required continuing education. Your employer must keep proof in your personnel file.
Renew every two years. Finish your continuing education before you submit the renewal.
Get your training at the United States Security Academy (USSA)
All of this training and renewal can be obtained at DeltaCon Security’s sister company, United States Security Academy (USSA). USSA and Deltacon Security are both subsidiaries of Deltacon Global Inc.
Veterans train free. Verified veterans receive unarmed security training (the Level II foundation for your commission) 100% FREE, plus discounts on other training. Claim the veterans program here.
Texas DPS-licensed instructors in every area of Texas private security:
Level III Firearm Instructor, for your commissioning course and annual proficiency
Level IV Personal Protection Instructor
Continuing Education (CE) Instructor, for your renewal hours
Alarm Level I Instructor
Contact USSA directly:
Email: info@ussa-academy.com
Phone: 832-260-6092
Courses: Browse USSA courses
Why DeltaCon Security leads Texas private security
Armed posts demand the best-trained officers. Because our sister company trains to Texas DPS standards, Deltacon Security puts highly trained, high-caliber armed professionals on every post. We lead the way.
Ready to Start Your Security Career with Deltacon Security?
Once you have completed the applicable training and obtained your required Texas DPS individual license, consider taking the next step by exploring employment opportunities with Deltacon Security - https://www.deltacon1.com/apply
We are committed to recruiting and developing qualified security professionals who understand that integrity, discipline, professionalism, and accountability are essential to effective security operations.
Whether you are a first-time applicant, an experienced security officer, an aspiring armed security professional, or a military veteran transitioning into civilian employment, we encourage you to explore the opportunities available through Deltacon Global Inc. and its affiliated organizations.
Visit our website to learn more about our security services, training resources, and career opportunities.
Deltacon Security – We Lead the Way!
Train with United States Security Academy. Grow with Deltacon Security. Become part of a higher standard of professional security.
Regulatory Disclaimer: The training programs described in this article are intended to support applicants pursuing Texas private security licenses. Successful completion of training does not guarantee license approval. The Texas Department of Public Safety independently determines eligibility and issues individual licenses. Applicants must satisfy all applicable statutory, regulatory, background screening, training, examination, firearm proficiency, and company affiliation requirements. Training availability, veteran eligibility, and tuition discounts are subject to applicable program terms and verification.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Verify current requirements with Texas DPS.
