Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TX Board of Public Safety
Police Officer Licensing in Texas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for police officer in Texas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Police Officer in Texas
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Specific type of conviction prohibited.
- 4
Physical Requirement: Physical exam required.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Texas Commission on Law Enforcement
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$76,350 median (0% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#22 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Texas eligibility requirements for Police Officer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Specific type of conviction prohibited; Background/Criminal Review: Specific type of conviction prohibited.).
- 6. Submit the application to Texas Commission on Law Enforcement and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Texas
With a median salary of $76,350, Police Officers in Texas earn 0% above the national median of $76,290. Texas ranks #22 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,420Median annual salary
$76,350Hourly estimate
$36.710% above national median
Difference: +$60
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPolice Officer Salary Ranking
#22 of 50 statesfor Police Officer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $115,400 |
| #2 | Washington | $102,640 |
| #3 | Illinois | $101,530 |
| #4 | Alaska | $100,300 |
| #5 | Colorado | $96,100 |
Nearby States Comparison
Police Officer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $76,350 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Oklahoma | $57,360 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Arkansas | $48,090 | Specific course required | State exam required | 1-21 years |
| Louisiana | $50,580 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| New Mexico | $63,340 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Arkansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Louisiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Texas Commission on Law Enforcement
6330 East Highway 290, Suite 200, Austin, TX, 78723
Phone: 5129367700
Related Careers in Texas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $51,020 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Firefighter | $60,840 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Security Guards | $33,390 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $82,170 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Police Officer in Texas?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Police Officers in Texas?
Texas lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Police Officers.
What education do you need to become a Police Officer in Texas?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Police Officer licensure in Texas.
What is the typical Police Officer salary in Texas?
The median annual salary for Police Officers in Texas is $76,350. Salaries range from $51,590 (10th percentile) to $99,450 (90th percentile).
How does the Police Officer salary in Texas compare to the national average?
Police Officers in Texas earn 0% above the national median of $76,290, with a state median of $76,350.
How many Police Officers work in Texas?
Texas employs approximately 62,230 Police Officers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Police Officer license to Texas from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Police Officers in Texas?
The licensing agency is Texas Commission on Law Enforcement. Review agency details at https://www.tcole.texas.gov/content/training-requirements.
How often do you renew a Police Officer license in Texas?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.