Basic Peace Officer

Program Description

How do I become a peace officer in Texas?

To become a Peace Officer in Texas, you must:

• Meet minimum licensing requirements as established by the TCOLE (opens in a new tab)
• Complete successfully a TCOLE-licensed Basic Peace Officer Training Academy, such as our Basic Peace Officer program
• Pass the state licensing exam

How long is the program?

Our Basic Peace Officer program is offered through our Law Enforcement Academy.

We offer 5 academies a year:

• Days: Monday through Friday
• Time: 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
• Length: 22-week period

The Basic Peace Officer course is offered only during the daytime.

What else do I need to know?

The Basic Peace Office training program:

• Requires active participation in both classroom instruction and physical training skills development
• Uses a hybrid paramilitary and academic approach
• Incorporates practical, real-world scenarios
• Requires you to show proficiency in all instructional areas to complete the academy successfully

After graduating, you must pass the State Peace Officer Licensing Exam to become licensed in Texas.

Credentials in Detail

Successful completion of the Basic Peace Officer program does not automatically result in licensing as a Peace Officer.

After completing this program, you will take the TCOLE Basic Peace Officer Licensing Exam at our testing center.

Licensing Notice: Texas House Bill 1508

This program prepares you for an occupational license. However, you may not be eligible for licensing if you have a prior criminal history.

For more details, see Texas House Bill 1508 Licensing Requirements

Eligibility Requirements

You must:

• Be 21 years of age.
  • For more information, see TCOLE Statutes and Rules Handbook (PDF)Listen (opens in a new tab)
• Meet TCOLE minimum requirements for licensing
• Complete the Law Enforcement Academy application packet—available from the TCC Public Safety Training Center.
  • Packets for employed students are sent to agencies only
• Pass a written exam
• Complete a physical fitness test
• Pass the following:
  • Comprehensive background investigation
  • Interview
  • Complete medical and psychological exam
• Complete a physical fitness test
• Be able to perform strenuous physical activities
• Show proof of Bacterial Meningitis vaccination if under the age of 22

What do I need for my application?

• Texas Driver's License
• Birth certificate or proof of U.S. citizenship
• High school diploma or high school equivalency (HSE)
• College transcript(s) (if any)—including TSI Assessment scores
• DD Form 214 or military discharge papers (applies to those that have served in the military)

Program Requirements

Explore the TCC Continuing Education Catalog and view the list of courses you will need to take for your program.

• Basic Peace Officer

Costs & Fees

Costs and fees vary. Costs are available in Hello!TCC's Continuing Education Course Descriptions.

How to Apply

This program is offered through TCC's Law Enforcement Academy. Learn how to apply and find more information on class cost and dates.