How to Become a Texas Ranger

Rangers hold one of the noblest positions in American history. So honored, in fact, little recruiting has ever been needed. In the past, it has not been unusual for more than 200 officers to apply for only a few of these elite openings. The following special requirements apply along with the qualifications required for entry employment with the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Instructions

1. Take the entrance exam. Applicants with the highest scores will then appear before an Oral Interview Board prior to final selection.

2. Make sure you meet the requirements for consideration. You must be a citizen of the United States of America, in exceptional physical condition, and have an outstanding record of at least 8 years of experience with an authentic law enforcement agency pledged principally in the investigation of major crimes. The applicant must currently be employed as a commissioned officer with the Texas Department of Public Safety in the position of at least the rank of Trooper II.

3. Have a background check. You must be subject to a thorough investigation, reflecting good moral character and ethics as an absolute must. Applicants must possess a valid Texas driver's license free of any limitations that would compromise the applicant' capability to fulfill his duties.

4. Expect to be working with law enforcement agencies of all sizes including local, county, state and federal officers.

5. Be prepared to investigate crimes that range from as murders, kidnappings and other violent crimes, to computer crimes and cattle rustling.

Tips & Warnings

• Learning some facts about the organization prior to application would be advantageous. The Texas Rangers Division consists of 140 employees, including 118 commissioned officers, 3 Crime Analysts, 1 Forensic Artist, 1 Fiscal Analyst and a team of 17 civilian support personnel. This exclusive force is organized into six companies, "A through F."