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Certification requirement

Independent K-9 patrol or deployment requires current authorization and completion of the DPS-approved K-9 qualification program. Probationary handlers operate under a certified handler’s oversight until formally approved.

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Training curriculum

The existing program includes:
  1. Obedience and control: Follow, stand, recall, release, leash control, distractions, and safe handling.
  2. Agility and conditioning: Obstacles, mobility, endurance, and environmental adaptability.
  3. Detection: Trained odor library, controlled indications, vehicle/building/open-area searches, and non-productive indication handling.
  4. Apprehension (if authorized): Controlled release, cessation of force, coverage, warning requirements, and safe recovery.
  5. Scenario drills: Search planning, scene coordination, lawful authority, deployment judgment, and documentation.
  6. Maintenance and refresher training: Continued proficiency, remedial review, and annual recertification.

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Evaluation

The existing Section 7.13 required a 30-question written examination with 24/30 (80%) to pass, followed by oral and practical evaluation. The former appendix separately referenced an 85% combined written/practical passing score, which conflicts with the 80% written requirement if treated as one overall standard.
Command decision required before enforcement: Adopt one unambiguous final passing standard. Until then, this page preserves the 80% written-test threshold from the primary certification section and requires passing practical evaluation, but does not silently establish an overall composite percentage.
Practical evaluation should assess canine control, deployment decision-making, equipment safety, trained detection, appropriate indication handling, search procedures, and policy knowledge. Handlers who fail qualification shall not independently deploy until reassessed and formally cleared. Certification status, failed evaluations, remediation, and annual recertification shall be recorded by training leadership and coordinated with the Field Training Program. Training exercises, rotating exams, instructor forms, and detailed schedules belong under the Field Training tab, rather than alongside operational SOP provisions.