TPS Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield TPS facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which of the following is grounds for denial of a security officer commission in Texas? → A felony conviction within the past 10 years
2. What is the primary purpose of maintaining accurate professional documentation? → To create a legal record of services and support continuity of care
3. Which of the following describes a 'daily activity report' (DAR) or 'post log' completed by a security officer? → A chronological record of activities, observations, and events during a shift
4. Which authentication method provides the strongest security? → Multi-factor authentication combining different verification types
5. What is the primary purpose of system monitoring? → To detect issues proactively and maintain system health
6. What is the most important principle in professional Texas Private Security practice? → Maintaining competence through continuous learning and adherence to standards
7. Under Chapter 1702, which of the following activities requires a private investigator license rather than a security officer commission? → Conducting covert surveillance to gather evidence for litigation
8. What is the first step before implementing any treatment procedure? → Verify patient identity and obtain informed consent
9. How can regular drills benefit emergency preparedness? → They prepare personnel for real incidents
10. What classification of security officer is authorized to carry a firearm in Texas under Chapter 1702? → Class A (commissioned) security officer with a firearm endorsement
11. What is the ethical obligation of a security officer who witnesses misconduct by a fellow officer toward a member of the public? → Intervene to stop the misconduct and report it to supervisors immediately
12. A security company that employs an officer who has not completed required training is subject to: → License suspension or revocation by the DPS
13. How should Texas Private Security professionals approach quality improvement? → Through systematic evaluation of outcomes and implementation of evidence-based changes
14. What is the role of encryption in data security? → Protecting data confidentiality during storage and transmission
15. A security officer uses more force than is reasonably necessary to subdue a suspect. This officer may be liable for: → Assault and battery under Texas law
16. When transitioning between treatment phases, what is essential? → Document the rationale for change and update goals accordingly
17. What is the appropriate retention period for professional records? → As specified by state/federal law and professional licensing requirements
18. What is the significance of professional networking in the Texas Private Security field? → It facilitates knowledge exchange, referrals, and collaborative problem-solving
19. What is the purpose of a Key Control Log in security operations? → To track the issuance and return of keys to authorized personnel
20. Under Texas Occupations Code Chapter 1702, what is the minimum age requirement to obtain a security officer commission? → 18 years old
21. What is the PRIMARY purpose of patrol in security operations? → To deter criminal activity and detect security threats
22. What is the significance of precise time documentation in a security report? → It establishes a timeline that may be critical for legal proceedings and investigation
23. The main advantage of using an electronic patrol monitoring system (wand/guard tour system) is: → It provides verifiable, time-stamped proof that all checkpoints were visited
24. Why is regular security training important for all staff? → Employees are often the weakest link in security and training reduces human error
25. What is the primary purpose of an incident report written by a security officer? → To create an accurate, objective written record of events for legal and operational use
26. What is the principle of least privilege? → Granting users only the minimum access necessary to perform their duties
27. What information must be included on a commissioned security officer's uniform while on duty? → The name of the employing company and the word 'Security'
28. What are the signs and symptoms of shock that a security officer should recognize? → Pale, cool, clammy skin; rapid weak pulse; rapid breathing; confusion; dizziness; nausea
29. A security officer observes an individual acting suspiciously near a restricted area during patrol. What should the officer do FIRST? → Observe and assess the situation before taking action
30. When conducting an interior patrol of a building, a security officer should pay particular attention to: → Doors, windows, stairwells, restrooms, and any area where unauthorized persons could hide