Dispatch personnel go through extensive testing and a public safety background investigation before they are hired. Entry-level personnel receive approximately four months of training before being released to function without the direct supervision of a communications training officer (CTO). CTOs are certified by the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO). 

Courses & Certification
All dispatchers must complete the 40-hour Texas Department of Public Safety course, which includes procedures for certification by the:

• National Crime Information Center (NCIC)
• Texas Crime Information Center (TCIC)
• Texas Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (TLETS)

Training is provided by utilizing in-house resources and by outside companies designed specifically for dispatcher training.