What must law enforcement agencies obtain from the commission before appointing a peace officer?

The correct answer is the F-5 Return (F5R), which refers to a specific document required in Texas before a law enforcement agency can appoint a peace officer. The F-5 Return is a form that provides a record of the officer's training and prior employment, as well as any disciplinary actions that may have been taken against them. This form is essential because it ensures that agencies are hiring individuals who have met all necessary qualifications and standards set by the state.

The importance of the F-5 Return lies in its role in maintaining the integrity and professionalism of law enforcement agencies. By requiring this documentation, the state ensures that officers are not only qualified but also free from any disqualifying issues from previous employment.

Other options, while relevant to the hiring process, do not directly fulfill this specific requirement set by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE). For instance, verification of suitability and background clearance may be part of the overall hiring process, but they do not specifically encompass the formal documentation required for an appointment from the commission. Appointment authorization is also less about an individual officer's qualifications and more about the agency's ability to appoint candidates in a broader sense.