The Texas Rangers are an elite division of law enforcement in the state of Texas overseen by the Department of Public Safety. They have a rich history dating back to the early 1800s when they were formed by Stephen F. Austin to help defend early settlers in Texas.

Since its inception, the organization has been surrounded by stories and rumors, both true and others created by various authors and enthusiasts. While they are an elite group within law enforcement, many of the Old West legends that surround them have been embellished just like other Old West entities such as Wyatt Earp and Jesse James.

There are just over 100 positions available within the Rangers organization, making them one of the most difficult arms of law enforcement to access.
They handle a variety of cases in collaboration with local and federal authorities and have state jurisdiction within the borders of Texas.
Over the years, the Rangers have been involved in several notable cases, such as outlaws like Bonnie and Clyde, and bank robber Sam Bass, just to name two.

The Texas Rangers are often tasked with conducting special investigations, suppressing disturbances such as riots, apprehending criminals, and collecting information and evidence related to organized crime. Many times the Texas Rangers will be called in to suppress crime in an area when local law enforcement agencies are unable or unwilling to do so. They also work to help fight corruption in the criminal justice system with the approval of the director.

The organization is divided into eight companies in total, one of which is known as the Central Company based in Austin, Texas. Aside from the Austin office, the others are located in Garland, Houston, Lubbock, McAllen, Midland, San Antonio and Waco.

Often the Rangers will work in groups of two with each group handling several different cases at once. While the official number of rangers is set at 136 with 24 civilians also employed as support staff, provision is made for up to 300 special rangers who can be called upon in times of crisis.

Unlike many law enforcement officers, the Texas Rangers do not have definitive uniforms. However, the state does enforce guidelines such as western-style clothing and specially made hats. While the organization has made use of badges since the late 1800s, the “star and wheel” badge that became famous in more recent years was introduced in 1962.

From humble beginnings to today, through controversy and myth, the Texas Rangers remain one of the most powerful and respected law enforcement agencies in both the state of Texas and the US as a whole. .

Once education and training is completed, there are a wide variety of rewarding Texas Rangers law enforcement jobs available to those who seek them.