EAST TEXAS SECURITY TRAINING ACADEMY

09/21/2026

Level 3 Security Officer Class in Arlington, Texas

Arlington security officers moving from Level II to a commission: what the Level III course covers, who can teach it, and what DPS needs from you.

Stadium nights, an entertainment district and a dense stretch of industrial and retail property between two big cities — Arlington has steady demand for officers who hold a commission, not just a guard card.

Level 2 Got You Working. Level 3 Gets You Armed.

Level 2 is the non-commissioned course that gets a security officer registered and on a post. Level 3 is the next step: Texas Administrative Code §35.141(a)(2) requires it for anyone seeking a security officer commission, which is the credential that permits carrying a firearm on duty. The same course is required for personal protection officers. It is not Level 4, and it does not cancel out Level 2 — you end up holding both.

How the Course Is Split

Part 1, online. ETXSTA runs this 100% online. Legal framework for armed security work, use of force, the duties that come with a commission, and the written exam.
Part 2, in person. Defensive tactics, firearms handling, and the firearms proficiency exam. Scheduled separately — the online course price does not include the qualification.

The Qualification, and the Shotgun Option

The proficiency exam is nearly identical in format to the Texas License to Carry range test. What is different for commissioned officers is the shotgun course of fire the rules provide, giving students the option to qualify with a shotgun as well. Worth knowing if you are heading into event or industrial work where post orders may involve one.

Only an Approved School Can Deliver It

The Level 3 curriculum is prepared by and obtained from the Texas Department of Public Safety, and it has to be taught by a DPS-approved school through a DPS-approved instructor. Unlike Level 2, a licensed company cannot have its own designee run Level 3 internally. Confirm the school’s approval before you enroll anywhere.

Passing, and Then Applying

Level 3 and Level 4 school examinations require 75% to pass under §35.144(c) — a higher bar than the License to Carry written test, which catches people out. Pass, and you receive your certificate of completion (PSP 30). Then, under §35.81(a), your commission application to DPS has to include copies of both your Level 2 and Level 3 certificates.

Train With ETXSTA

East Texas Security Training Academy is a DPS-approved school. Arlington students can finish Part 1 online around their shift schedule and then book the in-person portion.