TCOLE Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield TCOLE facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. The principle of proportionality in use of force requires that: → Force used must be reasonably matched to the threat presented
2. Which of the following best describes 'call screening' as it applies to PSAP operations? → Gathering essential information to determine the appropriate response type and priority
3. Under TPC §22.011, sexual assault is a second degree felony unless which factor is present, elevating it to first degree? → The victim is under 14 years of age
4. A TCOLE licensee who is dishonorably discharged from the military after obtaining a peace officer license may face: → License suspension or revocation by TCOLE
5. Which ethical principle requires an officer to treat every person with equal dignity regardless of race, ethnicity, or social status? → Impartiality
6. What does the acronym ANI stand for in 911 communications? → Automatic Number Identification
7. What does 'de-escalation' mean in the context of use of force? → Using techniques to reduce the need for or level of force required
8. A person commits 'tampering with evidence' under TPC §37.09 when they, knowing an investigation is in progress, alter or destroy evidence with intent to: → Impair its availability as evidence in the investigation or proceeding
9. The Texas Penal Code doctrine of 'parties to an offense' (§7.01) holds that a person is criminally responsible as a party if they: → Solicit, encourage, direct, aid, or attempt to aid another in committing the offense
10. Which element distinguishes Aggravated Robbery from Robbery under the Texas Penal Code? → The use or exhibition of a deadly weapon, or causing serious bodily injury
11. Which of the following scenarios best illustrates the offense of Criminal Trespass under Texas Penal Code §30.05? → A political canvasser walks up a driveway to knock on the front door of a house.
12. The three main categories of calls related to _______________________ are drowning, childbirth, and vehicle accidents. → EMS
13. A suspect in custody requests an attorney. From an ethical standpoint, officers must: → Immediately cease interrogation until counsel is present
14. An officer is offered a free meal by a restaurant owner who says 'police eat free here.' The MOST ethically sound response is to: → Politely decline and pay the full amount
15. When writing an offense report, an officer should describe a suspect's race/ethnicity using: → The victim's or witness's own description as stated to the officer
16. Under the Texas Penal Code, which felony degree carries a punishment range of 2 to 20 years in prison? → Second degree felony
17. When an officer testifies in court and knowingly provides false information, this is called: → Testilying — a form of perjury and serious ethical violation
18. Which of the following is NOT one of the three primary factors articulated in Graham v. Connor used to determine the objective reasonableness of a use of force? → The officer's personal feelings of anger or fear during the encounter.
19. Which agency is responsible for setting minimum training standards for Texas peace officers, including use of force curriculum? → Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE)
20. When an officer discovers a crime scene that may also be a biohazard, the officer's first priority should be to: → Secure the scene, limit access, and notify appropriate hazmat personnel
21. Which of the following BEST defines a conflict of interest for a peace officer? → A situation where personal interests could improperly influence official duties
22. During a multi-casualty incident, a telecommunicator should prioritize dispatching units in what order? → Based on the nature of the incident and local protocols
23. A person is guilty of 'criminally negligent homicide' in Texas if they cause death by: → Failing to perceive a substantial and unjustifiable risk they ought to have perceived
24. The concept of 'reasonable expectation of privacy' was articulated in which landmark Supreme Court case? → Katz v. United States
25. In Texas, the offense of Evading Arrest or Detention becomes a felony when: → The suspect uses a vehicle during the evasion
26. A law enforcement officer in Texas can make a warrantless arrest for a misdemeanor only if: → The offense is committed in the officer's presence or view
27. An officer is in a vehicle pursuit that endangers the public. Which use of force consideration is most critical? → The threat to innocent third parties must be weighed against the need to apprehend
28. In the context of law enforcement ethics, the principle of 'Objectivity' requires an officer to: → Make decisions based on facts and law, free from personal bias, prejudice, or emotion.
29. The concept of 'duty of candor' in law enforcement ethics requires officers to: → Be truthful in all official statements, reports, and court testimony
30. During active shooter events, telecommunicators are advised to follow which protocol to guide callers who are hiding? → Keep callers calm, silent, and provide updates on responder status