Firearms Training
From Basic Pistol Fundamentals to advanced training: safe handling, marksmanship and personal defense, through to tactical certification.
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Training Academy
Hands-on firearms, defensive tactics, less lethal and security courses taught by working professionals, for first-time owners through law enforcement.
4Training categories
1:1Private sessions
TXState-licensed
Who we train
Beginner to advanced shootersBuild safe handling, marksmanship and defensive skills at every experience level.
Security officersLicensing classes and the skills your post demands.
Law enforcementAdvanced tactics, less lethal options and extra hours.
Two ways to train
Choose how you train.
Train with our instructors in the classroom and on the range, or complete your DPS security courses online at your own pace.
In-person classes
Pick a discipline to see dates, seats and prices.
Defensive Tactics
See the threat before it arrives and move with disciplined skill when it does. Stance, movement, control and escape.
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Less Lethal Training
Less lethal tools and tactics, with de-escalation training built for modern security and law enforcement work.
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Security Training
Venue protection, close quarters defense and strategic asset security for working officers.
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Online Classes
Texas DPS security courses from home: study at your own pace, take the exam online and get your certificate.
View classesPrivate & team training
One-on-one coaching, or a dedicated session for your security staff, scheduled around you.
Request a sessionOnline classes
Texas DPS Private Security curriculum, taught by a DPS-licensed training school.
Study at your own paceAny computer or phoneExam onlineCertificate for TOPS
Level II
100% online
Texas DPS · Online course
Official DPS certificate
Level II Security Officer
The DPS-required course for every non-commissioned (unarmed) security officer in Texas. Complete it online at your own pace.
6Hours
SelfPaced
8Sections + exam
$60Finish within 90 days
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Level III
Online + in person
Texas DPS · Online course
Official DPS certificate
Level III Commissioned Security Officer
Complete 30 hours of coursework online, then 15 hours of supervised in-person training and firearms qualification. Instructor review and practical sign-off are required for your certificate.
45Hours
30 + 15Online + in person
11Sections + exam
$300Finish within 90 days
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Level III CE
Online + in person
Texas DPS · Online course
Official DPS certificate
Level III Renewal (Continuing Education)
The 6-hour continuing education course commissioned officers need to renew. Finish the coursework online, then shoot your proficiency with us.
6Hours
2.5 + 3.5Online + in person
4Sections + exam
$100Finish within 90 days
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Pepper Spray
100% online
Texas DPS · Online course
Official DPS certificate
OC / Pepper Spray
The DPS pepper spray (chemical dispensing device) course, for officers who have already completed Level III.
2Hours
SelfPaced
2Sections + exam
$50Finish within 90 days
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How online training works
01EnrollCreate your free account and choose a course.
02VerifyConfirm your identity with your ID and webcam, as DPS requires.
03StudyWork through each timed section, on any computer or phone.
04CertifyPass the exam, complete instructor review and any practical training, then download your signed certificate for TOPS.
You'll need:A webcam (laptop, tablet or phone)Driver's license or state IDReliable internet connection
Texas DPS Private Security Program disclosure
Primal Defense is licensed by the Texas Department of Public Safety, Private Security Program (License # C32325901 · License # F32326001). Complaints regarding these licenses may be directed to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Regulatory Services Division, Private Security Program: dps.texas.gov/section/private-security.
Notice to applicants and enrollees · Tex. Occ. Code §53.152
A person who has been convicted of a criminal offense may be ineligible for a private security license issued by DPS on completion of this training. DPS's guidelines on criminal convictions, and any other state or local restrictions, apply. You have the right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from DPS (Tex. Occ. Code §53.102) before or while you are enrolled. This notice is given to every applicant, whether or not they have a conviction.
Upcoming training
Your next class.
New dates are on the way.
No classes are on the calendar right now. Private and team sessions can be booked any time.