State Employment Preference
10 bonus points on competitive exams for state employment; 15 points (10 + 5 additional) for veterans with a service-connected disability, per Texas Government Code Section 657.003.
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About this benefit
Eligibility
Veteran with honorable discharge who otherwise meets the position's qualifications and at least the minimum required exam score.
Points structure
Per Texas Government Code Section 657.003(c), a qualifying veteran receives a 10-point service credit added to the test score; a veteran with a service-connected disability (as classified by the VA or branch of service โ no specific rating threshold required) receives an additional 5 points, for 15 points total.
Statutory priority order
(1) veteran with a disability, (2) veteran, (3) qualifying spouse, (4) surviving spouse who has not remarried, (5) orphan of a veteran killed on active duty.
How to claim
Indicate veteran status on your state job application and provide DD-214. Disabled veterans should also provide the VA disability rating/award letter.
Verified against official source
Last checked 2026-04-30 against statutes.capitol.texas.gov. Always confirm current rates and rules with the Texas state agency before applying.
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