If you need help studying for the TCOLE test or just want some more information about what the test is like, you’ve come to the right place.
Click below to take a free TCOLE practice test!
What’s on the TCOLE Exam?
How to Register
TCOLE Exam Scores
Retaking the Exam
FAQs
TCOLE Eligibility
Before you can register to take the TCOLE test, you’ll have to meet several eligibility requirements. The Texas Administrative Code will give you the details, but these are the main requirements to know about:
- You need to be at least 21 years old (18 if you have an associate’s degree
- You need to have a high school diploma or an equivalent
- You need a valid driver’s license
- You cannot be currently charged with a criminal offense
What’s on the TCOLE Test?
There are 250 multiple-choice questions total, and you’ll be timed at 3 hours. There aren’t any scheduled breaks, but you’re free to take restroom breaks as needed.
The questions cover the same topics that your Basic Peace Officer training courses did:
- Introduction/orientation
- Professional police practices
- Constitutional law, criminal law, and the criminal justice system
- Illegal substances and special regulations
- Family, children, and victims of crime
- Traffic regulation
- Communication/language
- Use of force
- Special populations
- Arrest procedures
- Investigations
- Vehicle operation
- Patrol operation
- Medical
- Weapons
- All hazards training
- Active shooter response
How to Register
You can start your application online on the TCOLE website. Before registering for the exam, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements and have finished your Basic Peace Officer training course. The exam is available on different dates throughout the year, so you can pick a time that works best for you.
To reserve your spot, you’ll need to pay a $25 exam fee.
TCOLE Study Guide and Flashcards
Get practice questions, detailed study lessons, and complex subjects broken down into easily understandable concepts.
TCOLE Exam Scores
The passing score for the TCOLE is 70%. You should receive your final score as soon as you finish the exam.
Retaking the Exam
If you didn’t get a passing score on your first try, that’s okay! You can retake the test two more times before having to retake the Basic Peace Officer training course.
FAQs
Do you need TCOLE Basic to be a TCOLE instructor?
No, you don’t have to complete the Basic Instructor course to be a TCOLE instructor.
How long is Texas TCOLE?
The time limit for the TCOLE test is 3 hours.
How long does it take to get TCOLE certified?
It depends on which path you take to complete your certification, but it typically takes between 6 months and 2 years.
How many questions are on the TCOLE test?
The test contains 250 questions.
What is the passing score for the TCOLE test?
You’ll need to answer at least 70% of the questions correctly to pass.
How much does the TCOLE test cost?
The exam fee is $25.