Can You Take the Level IV PPO Course Before Being a Level III Officer? Here’s the Truth.
There’s a lot of confusion — and misinformation — online about the requirements for becoming a Level IV Personal Protection Officer (PPO) in Texas. One of the most common misconceptions is that you must already hold your Level III Commissioned Officer license before you can take the Level IV training.
That’s not true. Let’s break down what the Texas Administrative Code says, and what it means for your training path with Train Protect Defend.
🧾 What the Law Says – Texas Administrative Code §35.91
According to the Texas DPS Private Security Program:
“An applicant for a personal protection license must… either possess a valid security officer commission issued before applying for a personal protection license, or submit an application for security officer commission in conjunction with the application for a personal protection license.”
— 37 TAC §35.91
✅ What This Means for You
You are not required to already have your Level III license in hand before you begin Level IV training.
You can take the Level IV course as long as:
- You’ve completed Level III training, and
- You either already hold your Level III license, or
- You are applying for it at the same time as your Level IV license.
🛑 However, you cannot be licensed or work as a PPO until your Level III commission is fully approved.
⚠️ What Many Websites Get Wrong
Many outdated or misleading sources online incorrectly state that you must already be licensed as a Level III Officer before starting Level IV training. This misinterpretation delays students unnecessarily and creates confusion during the application process.
The truth is simple: You can complete Level IV training and apply while your Level III commission is still pending, as long as both applications are submitted to the Texas Department of Public Safety together.
Affiliation
- Affiliation to apply with the State for Level IV License. An applicant for a personal protection officer license must be employed at the time of application to the State for your Level IV License by an investigations company or guard company licensed by the department. You do not have to apply prior to the training and the training certificate is good for two years.
🔐 Train the Right Way at Train Protect Defend
At Train Protect Defend, we provide the full pathway to become a licensed and confident PPO:
- ✅ Level III Training – Online & in-person defensive tactics + firearms
- ✅ Level IV Training – Threat assessment, client protection, and advanced unarmed defense
- ✅ MMPI Exam Support – We guide you through the required psychological evaluation
- ✅ Application Help – We walk you through the DPS submission process
- ✅ Training conducted at 407 Gun Club — Voted Best Range in Denton County
🗓️ Get full details and register here:
👉 https://trainprotectdefend.com/ecurity-officer-training-level-4-certification/
📝 Ready to Advance Your Security Career?
Don’t let bad information hold you back. Whether you’re just finishing Level III or applying for both licenses at once, Train Protect Defend will help you get certified the right way—professionally, efficiently, and legally.
📍 Training Location: 407 Gun Club, Argyle, TX
👤 Instructor: Walt Mayfield — Over 400 five-star reviews
🔗 Register: https://trainprotectdefend.com/ecurity-officer-training-level-4-certification/
Train with Confidence. Protect with Certainty. Defend with Skill.
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