11-25 | Applications Open Dec. 1 for 69th Texas Game Warden and State Park Police Cadet Class

Nov. 25, 2025

Media Contact: TPWD News, Business Hours, 512-389-8030

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AUSTIN – Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) will begin accepting applications Dec. 1 for the 69th Texas Game Warden and State Park Police cadet class. The application period will close Dec. 31.

The cadet class is open to those interested in enforcing conservation laws, public safety and joining the next generation of elite state law enforcement officers.

As fully commissioned peace officers, game wardens and park police officers are tasked with enforcing all Texas criminal laws and must enforce the Penal Code, Transportation Code and Health and Safety Codes much like their law enforcement colleagues in neighboring communities. Additionally, their responsibilities extend beyond the pavement as they patrol some of the most remote regions of the state, protecting Texas’ natural resources by enforcing hunting and fishing regulations, patrolling waterways, and keeping millions of residents and visitors safe while they enjoy the outdoors.

“Since 1895, Texas Game Wardens have been an elite branch of law enforcement that is critical to protecting our communities and Texas’ natural heritage,” said Col. Ron A. VanderRoest, TPWD Law Enforcement Director. “Honor, commitment and service guide our wardens every day as they focus on conservation enforcement, connect with the public and respond to emergencies and natural disasters across the state.”

VanderRoest added that Texas Game Wardens are deeply rooted in the communities they serve, living in the counties they patrol, teaching hunter and boater education courses, hosting outreach events and working with local partners to promote safe, legal and ethical outdoor recreation.

TPWD law enforcement officers also play a vital role in the state’s emergency response efforts, being specially trained in search, rescue and recovery operations on land, in the air and on the water.

The Texas Legislature has authorized an expanded enforcement program for Texas Game Wardens that includes a 50-hour work week for Texas Game Wardens and paid overtime for Texas State Park Police. This schedule supports increased patrol coverage across the state and provides an opportunity to earn a higher salary through additional enforcement hours and overtime compensation.

State Park Police Officers share a similar commitment to people and natural resources. They patrol some of the state’s most iconic public lands, including forests, rivers, mountains and beaches, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for the nearly 10 million visitors who explore Texas State Parks each year.

“For more than 50 years, State Park Police Officers have protected Texas’ parks and people,” said Chief Wes Masur, Director of State Park Police. “Our officers use community-oriented policing strategies to educate the public on state park rules and regulations, enforce state laws and serve as active partners with local law enforcement agencies. It is demanding work at times, but serving Texans in these special places is an incredibly rewarding career.”

Applicants for the 69th class must be at least 21 years old by the start of the academy and have earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in any field of study by June 30, 2026. They must also pass a comprehensive background check, psychological and medical evaluations and complete a physical readiness test that includes handgun stability, a 2,000-meter row and a swim test. A complete list of requirements for Texas Game Wardens and State Park Police can be found online.

All cadets accepted into the program are required to live at the Game Warden Training Center near Hamilton for the duration of the 35-week training period, set to begin Oct. 1, 2026.

Interested applicants may apply online. The application process to become a law enforcement officer with TPWD is highly competitive, with only the most qualified applicants being selected to attend the academy.

For more information, check the game warden career webpage or call the closest TPWD Law Enforcement Office and for questions about becoming a State Park Police Officer, contact park police recruiter EJ Rivera at ej.rivera@tpwd.texas.gov.