For most Fort Worth students, the range day is the part they think about. It is worth understanding what the whole Level 3 course involves before you get there.

The Firearms Proficiency Exam

Start with the part everyone asks about. The Level 3 firearms proficiency exam is close to identical in format to the Texas License to Carry proficiency exam, so students who have been through LTC already know the rhythm of it. The notable difference: the commissioned officer rules also set out a shotgun course of fire, so Level 3 students have the option to qualify with a shotgun in addition to a handgun.

The range work sits inside Part 2 of the course, alongside defensive tactics and firearms handling. All of it is in person, and it is scheduled separately from the online course — the online price covers the online training only.

But First, Part 1

Before the range there is a classroom half, and ETXSTA runs it 100% online. It covers the legal framework an armed security officer works inside, use of force, and the duties that attach to a commission. It is the portion most likely to trip someone up, because the exam standard is higher than people expect.

75% to Pass

Texas Administrative Code §35.144(c) sets the minimum passing grade for Level 3 and Level 4 school examinations at 75%. The License to Carry written test uses a different, lower number, and mixing them up is a common and avoidable mistake.

Why the Course Exists

Under §35.141(a)(2), Level 3 is required for anyone seeking a security officer commission — the authorization to carry a firearm on a security post — and for personal protection officers. It is a distinct course from Level 4, and it does not replace Level 2.

Who Can Legally Teach It

The course material is prepared by and obtained from the Texas Department of Public Safety, and it must be taught by a DPS-approved school through a DPS-approved instructor. There is no in-house version of Level 3 the way a licensed company can handle Level 2 internally.

After You Pass

You receive a certificate of completion (PSP 30). To apply for the commission, §35.81(a) requires copies of both your Level 2 and Level 3 certificates, plus the other items on the DPS application.

Fort Worth Students Start Online

ETXSTA is a DPS-approved school. Get Part 1 done on your own time, then schedule the hands-on qualification.