Private Security

Licensing

Texas Online Private Security (TOPS)

• Access TOPS Now
• Getting Started with TOPS
• Application Instructions
• Submit Documents
• News and Notices
• FAQs
• Firearms Safety

Program Information

• Fingerprinting Instructions
• Military Discount Information
• Peace Officers
• Licensing Forms
• Am I eligible to work?
• Search Licenses
• Administrative Hearings

Contact Information

• Consumer Complaint Sign
• Consumer Complaints

Training

• Training and Continuing Education
• Company Representative Experience and Examination Information
• Training Materials/Board Meeting DVD Order Form commented out broken link-->
• Find a Training School
• Instructor / Training School Resources
   

Overview

The Department of Public Safety (DPS) regulates the private security profession in Texas. DPS protects the public by conducting fingerprint-based background checks on applicants, investigating and resolving complaints, and taking disciplinary action against licensees or seeking criminal prosecution of those who perform private security services without a license.

The private security profession includes armed and unarmed security guards, personal protection officers, private investigators, alarm systems installers and monitors, armored car couriers, electronic access control device installers, and locksmiths. DPS regulates the private security profession under the authority of the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1702 and the related administrative rules.

Business

• Company and School License Types
• Private Business with Internal Security
• Governmental and Political Subdivision with Internal Security

Individuals

• Individual License Types
• Fee Schedule
• Military Exemption Fee Schedule
   

Laws

Statute and Rules

• Occupations Code
• Administrative Code
• Statutes and Rules

New and Updated

• New Legislation
• Pending Administrative Rules
• Rules to be Considered

Summaries

• Impersonating a Security Officer
• Security Officer Uniforms and Vehicles
• Red, White or Blue Lights
• Tow Truck
• Gate Operators/Garage Door Openers
• Bounty Hunter
• Non-lethal Weapons (club, pepper spray, tasers)

Opinions

• Agency Opinions
• Texas Attorney General Opinions
   

Committee/Reports

Texas Private Security Advisory Committee

• Members

Meeting Information

• Board meeting minutes
• Advisory Committee Meeting Notes
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Reports and Statistics

• Licensing Quarterly Totals
• Final Disciplinary Actions