One of the longest-running DPS-licensed security training academies in the metro, DFWMTA has been operating since 1992 and has certified over 10,000 security officers. Owner Mary Jane Bull has worked in security since 1979 and holds multiple DPS instructor certifications. Range fees are included in pricing except ammunition. Winner of Best Schools in Fort Worth three years running.
Founded by Texas law enforcement and military professionals, Go Strapped offers a hybrid format — Level II can be completed entirely online, while Level III requires an in-person firearms and defensive tactics session at their range inside GRITR in North Richland Hills. Level II online starts at $150, well below traditional classroom-only schools. 98% recommended across nearly 500 reviews.
Instructor Walt Mayfield brings 20+ years of experience and 400+ five-star reviews. Online Level II and III classroom portions can be completed on your own schedule — in-person firearms qualification is held at 407 Gun Club in Argyle, TX. A strong fit for candidates in Denton, Lewisville, Frisco, McKinney, and north DFW who want flexible scheduling with a high-rated instructor.
Texas Security Academy is a DPS-approved online platform serving security professionals across Texas including the DFW metro. Courses are self-paced and accessible 24/7 from any device. A practical option for candidates who need maximum scheduling flexibility or who have already started working and need continuing education for license renewal.
USPS operates both a security guard company and a DPS-licensed training academy out of Dallas. Their training covers Level II through Level IV bodyguard certification and is open to the public. One of the Top 5 rated security service providers in Texas, their training arm benefits from instructors with active field experience in the Dallas market.
PLR
Several large national security firms — including Allied Universal and Securitas — run their own DPS-licensed training programs for new hires. If you receive a conditional job offer, ask whether they sponsor training costs. In many cases the company covers everything in exchange for a minimum hours commitment after you're licensed. This is the lowest out-of-pocket path for candidates who already have a job offer in hand.
What to Check Before You Enroll
Verify a few things directly before paying any fees:
- DPS license is active — search the school at tops.portal.texas.gov before enrolling
- Total cost — ask for all-in pricing including exam fees and range fees for Level III
- Format — online, in-person, or hybrid — pick what fits your schedule
- Range access for Level III — confirm whether qualification is on-site or at a separate location
Most candidates complete training and receive an active commission within 2–4 weeks. For a full breakdown of the licensing process see our Texas Security License Requirements guide.