TX On-Duty First Responder Training Course

Description

This is the Texas Department of Public Safety-approved On Duty First Responder Training Course consisting of classroom instruction as well as a student exam, field instruction and proficiency demonstrations of first responders desiring to carry a handgun on duty in accordance with TX House Bill 1069. After successful completion of this course, first responders who are LTC holders will receive a certificate of completion for the training course under section 411.184, TX Government code.

Note that there are specific eligibility requirements outlined by the State of TX that must be met in order for students to be considered for this certification.  The State has determined that certification is only available for First Responders of municipalities with a population of 30,000 or less or a county with a population of 250,000 or less.

Once certified, a First Responder's employer may not adopt or enforce an ordinance, order, or other measure that generally prohibits a first responder who holds a license to carry a handgun from carrying a concealed or holstered handgun while on duty or from storing a handgun on the premises of or in a vehicle owned or leased by the municipality or county if the handgun is secured with a device approved by the TX Department of Public Safety.

Topics Covered

The course covers classroom training in:
•Self-Defense
•De-escalation techniques
•Tactical thinking relating to cover for and concealment of the license holder
•Methods to conceal a handgun and methods to ensure the secure carrying of a concealed handgun
•The use of restraint holsters and methods to ensure the secure carrying of an openly carried handgun
•Consequences of improper use of a handgun

It will also provide field instruction in the use of handguns, including:
•Instinctive or reactive shooting
•Tactical shooting
•Shooting while moving
•Shooting in low light conditions

Expectations and Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will have completed forms for submission to the state to procure their certification.

Note that there is an annual renewal requirement for this certification.

Types

Advanced, Intermediate, Concealed Carry Training, Specialty Other

Documentation Requirements

Valid TX-issued LTC (License to Carry).

It is NOT the responsibility of the instructor to determine eligibility for state licensure.  Note that the course and state application fees are NOT refundable should the state determine the student is ineligible.  Students that are unsure of their eligibilty should discuss with the Department of Public Safety prior to signing up for this course.

Must meet the TX state definition of First Responder as defined by Section 419.021, TX Government Code and/or Section 773.003, TX Health and Safety Code.

A waiver will be sent to the student upon registration and must be signed prior to the start of class.

The instructor requires a copy of your Government Issued ID once you register.

The instructor requires a copy of your Concealed Carry Weapons permit once you register.

Requirements

Must have prior pistol shooting knowledge/skills.  This is NOT an instructional shooting course.  Unsafe students will be removed from the range and will not pass the course.  Students must pass both the written exam and handgun proficiencies with 90% or better in order to receive certification.  Note that the State requires 100% course attendence in order to receive certification.

Bring to class:
- Valid TX LTC.
- Paper and pen/pencil for notes and test.
- Handgun chambered in .32 or higher caliber of quality manufacture with at least three magazines or two speedloaders.  Pistol rentals may be available for an additional fee, depending on location.  Red dot or holographic sights are allowed.  **NO OPTICAL ENHANCERS/MAGNIFIERS**
- Minimum of 400 rounds of appropriate training ammunition (extra is recommended).
- Appropriate holster (belt or paddle holster) capable of retaining the weapon with a mechanism or enough friction to overcome gravity. Shoulder or cross-draw holsters are not allowed. No holsters that use the index / trigger finger to release the handgun.
- Handheld flashlight with a minimum of 200 lumens, prefer 500 lumens or greater, and no more than 6 inches in total length.  Weapon-mounted light is acceptable as long as the coordinating holster is utilized.
- Eye and ear protection (may be rented at the range, depending on location).
- Closed-toe shoes.
- Range fees - payable directly to the range.
Additional gear is advised based on range choice and season/weather (indoor/outdoor range, sunscreen, hat, raingear, etc.).  No low-cut tops for women.