In addition to the qualifications required for entry employment with the Texas Department of Public Safety, the following special requirements apply to become a Ranger:
Each applicant must be a citizen of the United States of America, in excellent physical condition, and have an outstanding record of at least eight (8) years experience with a bona fide law enforcement agency, engaged principally in the investigation of major crimes. The applicant must be currently employed with the Texas Department of Public Safety, in the position of a commissioned officer with the rank of at least Trooper II.
Applicant must have a background subject to a thorough investigation, which would reflect good moral character and habits. Applicant must possess a valid Texas driver's license free of any restrictions that would compromise the applicant's ability to perform his duties.
An entrance examination will be given, and selected applicants with the highest scoring grades will appear before an Oral Interview Board before final selection.
Military police experience does not count toward the eight (8) years experience required in order to be eligible to compete for the position of Texas Ranger.
Little recruiting has ever been necessary and it is not unusual for many officers to apply for only a handful of openings.
Rangers are required to attend at least 40 hours of in-service training every two years, but for most Rangers, the training far exceeds the requirement. Some Rangers receive additional training in areas such as investigative hypnosis, which has played an important role in some criminal cases.
In 2020, the average Ranger is about 44 years of age.