Texas Level IV

Personal Protection Officer (PPO)

Advance to the Highest Level of Security Training in Texas

The Texas Level IV Personal Protection Officer Course is the most advanced training offered to private security professionals in the state. Designed for commissioned officers who want to elevate their careers, this course provides the knowledge, skills, and certification required to serve as a Personal Protection Officer (PPO)—a role trusted to protect executives, high-profile individuals, and clients who demand the highest standard of safety.

For questions about the courses, you can reach us by email, phone or the contact form below.
[email protected] 1-(855) 4-NXTLVL (Option 2)

Course Outcome

What to Expect During the Course

The Role of a PPO

Learn what it means to serve as a professional protector, including the expectations and ethical responsibilities of the position.

Firearms Training and Safety

How to identify, evaluate, and respond to potential threats before they escalate.

Protective Strategies & Formations

Hands-on techniques for escorting and safeguarding clients in public and private environments.

Defensive Tactics

Practical skills to react quickly and effectively in high-risk scenarios while keeping your principal safe.

Legal Knowledge & Responsibilities

Review of Texas laws, DPS rules, and the legal limitations that PPOs must operate within.

Firearms Proficiency & Safety

Refresher on advanced firearm handling, retention, and defensive use in protective details (Level III Commission required).

Course Structure

Length: 10 Hours
Format: Classroom instruction combined with practical exercises
Prerequisite: Must hold a valid Texas Level III Commissioned Security Officer License
Certification: Graduates receive a certificate of completion required for PPO licensing through Texas DPS

Why This Course Matters

Becoming a Texas Personal Protection Officer sets you apart as part of an elite group of security professionals. This training equips you not only with the tactical skills required to protect lives, but also with the judgment and professionalism to succeed in high-stakes environments.

👉 Enroll today and take your security career to the next level with the Texas Level IV Personal Protection Officer Course.

Texas Level IV Personal Protection Officer (PPO) Course – FAQ

General Information

The Level IV PPO course is the highest level of security training in Texas. It prepares commissioned security officers to provide personal and executive protection services for clients such as executives, celebrities, high-net-worth individuals, and government officials.
To enroll, you must:
- Already holds a valid Texas Level III Commissioned Security Officer License.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Pass a criminal background check and DPS eligibility requirements.
- Have a good understanding of firearms safety and use.
The course is 10 hours, as mandated by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
The curriculum covers:
- Executive and personal protection fundamentals
- Threat assessment and risk management
- Protective formations and movements
- Escorting techniques for clients
- Defensive tactics and conflict management
- Firearms safety and retention techniques
- Legal responsibilities and state requirements
Yes. Texas law requires all Personal Protection Officers to complete the Level IV PPO training and receive approval through the Department of Public Safety (DPS) before they can legally provide personal protection services.
Yes. Since firearms proficiency is part of the PPO requirements, students should bring their own duty weapon and required equipment. You must already be a commissioned Level III officer to participate.
Upon successful completion, you will receive a certificate of completion. You will then submit this certificate to DPS along with your application and any additional requirements to be officially licensed as a Personal Protection Officer.
Yes. The state requires both a written exam and practical demonstration of protective skills before issuing your completion certificate.
No. In Texas, it is illegal to work as a Personal Protection Officer (bodyguard/executive protection) without completing this course and holding a valid PPO license through DPS.
No. The Level III Commission course certifies you to work as an armed security officer. The Level IV PPO course is an advanced course specifically for those who want to provide personal protection services. You must already have Level III before enrolling in Level IV.
$200
No. This is a Texas-specific license. Other states have their own licensing requirements for bodyguards and personal protection officers.
The PPO license is valid for two years, the same as your Commission license. It must be renewed with DPS before expiration.
Not always. Some providers may include CPR/First Aid as an add-on. It is recommended, but not required, for PPO licensing.
Yes. If you do not meet the standards in testing (written or practical), you will not receive a certificate of completion. However, most providers allow you to retake the course or test.
Students should bring:
- Duty firearm and holster
- Security officer identification/license
- Notebook and writing tools
- Comfortable attire suitable for movement and drills
You will learn basic defensive tactics tailored for client protection. However, this is not a full martial arts program. Many PPOs choose to pursue additional training in self-defense and close-quarters combat outside of this course.
No. Texas requires the Level IV PPO training to be completed in person with both classroom instruction and practical exercises.
No. You can take the course as an individual. However, to actively work as a PPO, you must be employed or sponsored by a licensed security company in Texas.
Unlike a regular security officer, a PPO is trained and licensed specifically to provide close personal protection. This includes escort duties, defensive positioning, and protecting high-profile individuals in public and private settings.