state/federal law.


Required Training: Level III/Commissioned Officer requires a 40-
hour Level III course. The training for this license consists of
classroom based learning, defense tactics, handcuffing, and
firearms training. At the completion of the course the candidate
must pass a firearms proficiency test and a multiple choice
exam. This license requires the previous Level II course to be
completed first. This course may only be taught by a licensed
Level III instructor working under a state licensed Level III
security training school.[62]

Background Check: FBI background check and electronic
fingerprint imaging

Renewal: Submission of renewal fee and proof of completion of
a 6-hour re-qualification class taught by a Level III instructor
under a Level III training school. The re-qualification course
requires completion of a multiple choice exam and a firearms
qualification. This is done every two years.

Personal Protection Officer (Level IV)

A Personal Protection Officer (PPO) directly protects the life of
their client. PPO's are the only license type able to wear plain
clothes while working. PPO's in plain clothes MUST conceal their
firearm, and they are also the only license type able to conceal
their firearm at all. The Level IV/Personal Protection Officer
license is tied to the Level III/Commissioned Officer license. To
issue a PPO license the PPO candidate must be applying for at
the same time or have already received a Level III/
Commissioned Security Officer license. The Security Officer's
Level III and IV will also have the same expiration date
regardless of date issued.

Required Training: Level IV/ Personal Protection Officer
requires a 15 hours course teaching additional law, defense
tactics, considerations for personal protection of a client, and
OC training. This license requires the previous Level II and
Level III courses to be completed first. This course may only
 be taught by a licensed Level IV instructor working under a
state licensed Level IV security training school. [63]

Background Check: FBI background check and electronic
fingerprint imaging

Psychological Testing: In addition to the training and
background check a PPO must also submit an MMPI
(psychological test) administered by a Texas licensed
Psychologist.[64]

Renewal: Submission of renewal fee and a current Level III/
Commissioned Officer license or pending renewal of Level
III/Commissioned Officer license.