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. Under Texas law, when is a security officer legally permitted to use a fire extinguisher on a fire? → When the fire is small, contained, and they have been trained in extinguisher use
5. Texas law's 'shopkeeper's privilege' permits a security officer to detain a suspected shoplifter under what conditions? → For a reasonable time using reasonable means to conduct an investigation
6. Which authentication method provides the strongest security? → Multi-factor authentication combining different verification types
7. What is the primary purpose of system monitoring? → To detect issues proactively and maintain system health
8. Under Texas Penal Code's 'Castle Doctrine,' a person has no duty to retreat before using force when they are: → In their habitation, vehicle, or place of business and facing unlawful force
9. What is the most important principle in professional Texas Private Security practice? → Maintaining competence through continuous learning and adherence to standards
10. When a security officer encounters a person experiencing a diabetic emergency and the person is conscious, what is the most appropriate first action? → Offer a sugary drink or glucose tablets
11. Under Texas law, which legal doctrine holds an employer vicariously liable for torts committed by employees acting within the scope of their employment? → Respondeat superior
12. 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
13. What does the 'R' stand for in the RACE acronym used during fire emergencies? → Rescue
14. What is the first step before implementing any treatment procedure? → Verify patient identity and obtain informed consent
15. How can regular drills benefit emergency preparedness? → They prepare personnel for real incidents
16. The primary Texas statute governing a security officer's right to use force in self-defense is found in: → Texas Penal Code Section 9.31
17. 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
18. 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
19. A security company that employs an officer who has not completed required training is subject to: → License suspension or revocation by the DPS
20. How should Texas Private Security professionals approach quality improvement? → Through systematic evaluation of outcomes and implementation of evidence-based changes
21. What is the role of encryption in data security? → Protecting data confidentiality during storage and transmission
22. 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
23. When transitioning between treatment phases, what is essential? → Document the rationale for change and update goals accordingly
24. What is the appropriate retention period for professional records? → As specified by state/federal law and professional licensing requirements
25. A plaintiff may be awarded punitive damages against a security officer or company when the defendant's conduct was: → Malicious or showed reckless disregard for the plaintiff's rights
26. What is the significance of professional networking in the Texas Private Security field? → It facilitates knowledge exchange, referrals, and collaborative problem-solving
27. What is the purpose of a Key Control Log in security operations? → To track the issuance and return of keys to authorized personnel
28. Under Texas Occupations Code Chapter 1702, what is the minimum age requirement to obtain a security officer commission? → 18 years old
29. A security officer responding to a reported drowning at a pool should prioritize which action FIRST? → Ensure their own safety and call for emergency services
30. What is the PRIMARY purpose of patrol in security operations? → To deter criminal activity and detect security threats