Online Security Guard Training and Career Center

Security Guard Training in Mississippi

In the State of Mississippi, there are no requirements set forth to become an unarmed security guard by the state. However, there may be some requirements on the city and county levels in which case you must contact the local City Clerk’s office. In addition, the company that is hiring you may have basic criteria that you must meet as well.

Standard requirements across state lines:

• Must be at least 18 years old
• High School diploma or equivalent
• No felony convictions or any crime involving the illegal use of weapons

Other Requirements that May Be Helpful for Mississippi Security Officers:

• Driver’s License
• Good Communication skills
• Good physical conditioning
• Be able to stand long periods of time

Security Guard Training in Missouri

In the State of Missouri, there are no requirements set forth to become an unarmed security guard by the state. However, there may be some requirements on the city and county levels in which case you must contact the local City Clerk’s office. In addition, the company that is hiring you may have basic criteria that you must meet as well.

Standard requirements across state lines:

• Must be at least 18 years old
• High School diploma or equivalent
• No felony convictions or any crime involving the illegal use of weapons

Other Useful Checklists for those wishing to become a Security Guard in Missouri:

• Driver’s License
• Good Communication skills
• Good physical conditioning
• Be able to stand long periods of time

Security Guard Training in Montana

A license is required for unarmed security guards in the state of Montana. The hiring company must also train their unarmed guards.

Basic requirements for unarmed security guards in Montana:

• Must be at least 18 years old
• Must show proof of citizenship
• Must be employed by a licensed security or proprietary company
• Must successfully pass a FBI and Montana Dept. of Justice background check
• Provide proof of training
• Passport photo showing full face, head and shoulders
• Submit application with all required information and fees

Other Requirements that May Be Helpful:

• Driver’s License
• Good Communication skills
• Good physical conditioning
• Be able to stand long periods of time

Montana Private Security Training

The company must provide training: A basic training conducted may include but is not limited to the following:

1. Role of Private Security
2. Legal Aspects
3. Patrol and Observation
4. Incident Response
5. Security Resources: Surveillance operation and documentation
6. Customer Service Issues: Working with and addressing the public
7. First Aid Overview

Fees are nonrefundable:

• Application fee: $75.00

For exact application information, please see the Montana Department of Labor and Industry Application for Private Security Guard or call (406) 841-2348.

Security Guard Training in Georgia

To become an unarmed security guard in Georgia, no license is required. However, potential applicant must meet other qualifications, which includes 24 hours of classroom training.

In addition, potential applicant must meet other basic qualifications.

Basic Requirements:

• Must be at least 18 year old
• Must be a United States citizen or registered resident alien
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Have good moral character
• No felony convictions or any crime involving the illegal use of weapons
• Have not committed any acts of fraud
• Drug testing (which may be ongoing)
• Other Requirements that May Be Helpful:
• Driver’s License
• Good physical conditioning
• Be able to stand long periods of time
• Good Communication skills

Basic Training Curriculum for Security Officers in Georgia

A basic training course consisting of at least 24-hours class instruction must be successfully completed. This course can be given by the potential employer or may be taken as a standalone class.

Curriculum may include but not limited to the following subjects:

1. Role of Private Security
2. Legal Aspects
3. Patrol and Observation
4. Incident Response
5. Security Resources: Surveillance operation and documentation
6. Customer Service Issues: Working with and addressing the public
7. First Aid Overview

Please note: If training isn’t offered by potential employer, stand alone courses may require a fee.

For more information, please call 478=207-2440, see the Georgia Board of Private Detective & Security Agencies Application for Employee Registration Form or visit the main Georgia Board of Private Detective & Security Agencies licensing page here.

Security Guard Training in Delaware

According to the Delaware Department of Public Safety, an unarmed security guard must be licensed. However, before licensing he or she must also take a certified training course by the state.

Once all requirements are met, the license is administered by the Delaware Department of Public Safety. The license is good for two years and must be valid while employed. To keep license current, yearly courses must be completed.

Basic requirements for applying for an unarmed security guard license:

• Must be at least 18 years old
• Must be hired by a licensed company
• Drug testing (which may be ongoing)
• Complete background check and finger prints
• Must be a United States citizen or registered resident alien (provide proof that you are legally able to work in the US)
• No felony convictions or any crime involving the illegal use of weapons (that includes violent misdemeanors and assault lll or offensive touching in the last three years)
• Must complete a 16 hour certified training course by the state of Delaware before applying for license. Form to be signed by instructor as proof.

Other Requirements that May Be Helpful:

• Driver’s License
• Good physical conditioning
• Be able to stand long periods of time
• Good Communication skills

Basic training curriculum may include but not limited to the following subjects:

1. Role of Private Security
2. Legal Aspects
3. Patrol and Observation
4. Incident Response
5. Security Resources: Surveillance operation and documentation
6. Customer Service Issues: Working with and addressing the public
7. First Aid Overview

Fees:

Application fee is $69 and not refundable and there is a $20 identification card fee required once your application is approved.

Once you have successfully completed the certified course, you can apply for your license as unarmed security guard by calling (302) 672-5304 to set up an appointment.

For more information, please visit the Delaware State Police Department and see the Delaware Private Security Security Guard Training Instructor Information found here.

Security Guard Training in Colorado

In the State of Colorado, an unarmed security guard must be licensed for as long as he or she is employed as a security guard. The City Clerk’s office handles the application.

In order to qualify for an unarmed security guard license the following requirements must be met:

• Must be at least 18 year old
• Must be a resident of Colorado
• Must be a United States citizen or registered resident alien
• Must have a valid Colorado driver’s license or state ID card
• A valid social security card
• Must provide a medical certificate (within 60 days of filing the security guard application) stating you are physically capable of performing the duties of a security guard. Only a physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant certified by the Colorado State Board of Medical Examiners can administer this certificate.
• Proof of background check, within 30 days after filing the security guard application, from the CBI or other recognized source

If expected to carry a nightstick, mace or knife applicant must show proof of compliance of the local regulations; there are specific rules as to the length of blade and nightstick in most municipalities. See the Denver Firearm and Weapons Related Statutes found here for more information.

In addition, the use of mace is allowed based on these specific regulations.

Other Requirements that May Be Helpful:

• Driver’s License
• High School diploma or equivalent
• Good Communication skills

For more information, please visit Denver Business Licensing Center Security Guard information page or call 311 (or 720-913-1311 if outside Denver).

Security Guard Training in Arkansas

According to the Arkansas state police department, to become an unarmed security guard in Arkansas you must apply for a security position with a security company and they will take care of training and if required, any licensing with the state of Arkansas.

However, no license is required for unarmed security guards. However, potential applicant must meet other basic qualifications.

Basic Requirements:

• Must be at least 18 year old
• Must be a United States citizen or registered resident alien
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Have good moral character
• No felony convictions or any crime involving the illegal use of weapons
• Have not committed any acts of fraud
• Drug testing (which may be ongoing)

Other Requirements that May Be Helpful:

• Driver’s License
• Good physical conditioning
• Be able to stand long periods of time
• Good Communication skills
• Basic Training Curriculum for Security Officers in Arkansas

A basic training conducted by the potential employer may include but is not limited to the following:

1. Role of Private Security
2. Legal Aspects
3. Patrol and Observation
4. Incident Response
5. Security Resources: Surveillance operation and documentation
6. Customer Service Issues: Working with and addressing the public
7. First Aid Overview

Do You Need to Go to School to Become a Security Guard?

Many people wonder if there are any education requirements necessary before they can become a security guard. Typically, the only education required is a high school diploma, however continued education in a criminal justice or law enforcement field can definitely help.

Many local community colleges offer several courses in criminal justice, legal studies, homeland security and public safety that can help you when you apply for a job or are looking to increase your income. Also, there are a ton of places online that offer similar courses too. It is recommended that you first check with any potential employers before enrolling for any courses to see if they have any recommendations for you.

Besides taking a class, it may be more beneficial for you to decide to take a training course instead, such as an armed guard training course where you would learn how to carry and properly handle a gun, a pepper spray training course, or even a course on using a baton.

These types of courses will definitely help add to your resume and impress any potential employers, since they are directly related to the job that you will be hired for. Specifically, firearm training can be a mandatory requirement for some employers, and usually that means they will pay more.

Although you do have a lot of options, it is understandable if you are still a little confused about what you’re supposed to do. There is no right answer and know that in most cases, any education is good education, especially if you are able to learn more about your field of work and potentially become a better security guard as a result. If you really need some help, don’t be afraid to ask an experienced security guard what they think you should do.

To conclude, no – it is not absolutely required to go to school in order to become a security guard, however there are definitely benefits if you do, such as an increased wage and an easier time getting hired. Depending on the State that you live in, however, you may be required to take security guard training classes in order to become eligible to seek employment.

See the list of qualifies schools below, featuring Criminal Justice programs and other Security Services and Law Enforcement classes.

Top 10 Security Guard Gear You Can’t Live Without

Security guards carry lots of gear, and any good security guard will have the equipment required to protect not only themselves, but the property they are assigned to. Here’s a list of the top 10 pieces of equipment that most security officers will have.

1. Flashlight

A flashlight is one of the most important pieces of equipment that a security guard can carry.

Even if you’re assigned to a day job where a flashlight may not seem necessary, it’s still important to be equipped with one because certain scenarios may require some extra light to help you see, and you never want to go into a dark location without one.

Furthermore, a flashlight can be used for protection. Many flashlights that security officers carry are heavy duty, long metal flashlights that could potentially be used as a striking device.

No special training is needed in order to carry a flashlight, although there are training programs that you can enroll in that may teach you how to effectively use one in a combat situation.

Most security officers (and police officers too!) carry a Maglite flashlight because of their durability, bright light, and solidness.

2. Security Guard Baton

Security guard batons are another important piece of equipment that security guards use to protect themselves. More importantly, however, they are a weapon that can keep a property safe without even being used. Just the fact that you have one in your belt that people can see will usually be enough to make sure things stay calm. People know that if you were to pull this weapon out, it could definitely do some damage.

In most states, however, you will be required to complete a training course specialized for handling a baton before you can legally carry one while on duty. Some companies may require that you complete this training before you are hired.

3. Boots

A good pair of security guard boots is extremely important.

Most security guards I’ve spoken to say that a good pair of boots can make the difference between coming home with sore legs and a sore back, and coming home comfortable without any aches and pains.

Because most security guards spend their shifts walking around on patrol, a pair of durable boots will last a lifetime. A cheap pair will not only end up hurting you, but will also wear out and you’ll find yourself having to buy a new pair at least twice a year.

Most uniforms require a pair of black boots, but you’ll want to check with your employer first before investing in some quality boots for yourself and your feet.

4. Security Guard Belt

The security guard belt is another important piece of equipment for any serious security guard. It makes carrying all of the pieces of equipment listed here (and more) much much easier.

The last thing a security officer wants to do is fumble around looking for his/her flashlight or pepper spray when they need it most.

Belts usually come with extra pieces that slide or clip on so you can attach additional pieces of equipment on it.

5. Pepper Spray

A security guard should definitely look into being equipped with pepper spray because it is one of the best ways to temporarily repress an attacker or unlawful individual, without actually causing any permanent damage to that individual.

Although civilians are allowed to purchase pepper spray for protection (i.e. for students and hikers), police officers and security guards may need to undergo pepper spray training in order to understand how and when to properly use it while on duty. Please check with your employer as far as requirements in order to use pepper spray.

There are many types, however it’s been said that the UDAP brand of pepper sprays are the best that you can get. Here are a few pepper sprays that you can look at from the UDAP brand.

6. A Cell Phone

All security guards should carry a cell phone. Although much of the communication you will do as a security officer may be through a walkie-talkie or other radio type device, a cell phone will give you the ability to quickly call the proper authorities or fire department when required to.

Before your first day on duty, put all of the most important numbers into your address book on your phone, or even better, into speed dial so they can be dialed almost immediately.

7. A Heated Vest

Many security guards work in colder climates where it can be uncomfortable to work and function properly. Even if you live in a warmer climate, you may need to work at night at times where the temperature can drop drastically and make you very cold.

A heated vest can take care of this for you and keep you comfortable and focused even on the coldest of nights.

8. Digital Camera

A digital camera can be a security guard’s best friend, especially if it has video capabilities. The pictures and videos that you take can make it so much easier for you to describe different events and situations that arise, especially if you’re forced to go to court to testify.

You can take pictures of property, people, vehicles, crime scenes – almost anything you can think of that is pertinent to your job and the reports that you write up.

9. A Handgun

Obviously, you’re going to need specialized armed security guard training if you want to carry a firearm while on duty, but a gun, much like a baton, can be a great way to keep an area secure without ever having to use it. Just the fact that it’s there in your belt in a holster can keep an area under control.

Of course, if you do need to draw your gun and use it at any point, you’re going to want to make sure you abide by the law and this is why training is so intense, long and important.

Furthermore, many times carrying a handgun will actually yield a higher paycheck.

10. A Mini-First Aid Kit

A mini-first aid kit is perfect for security guards to have, not only for themselves, but for the people in and around the location that they are assigned to.

For example, if you’re working in a retail area and someone comes up to you asking for a band-aid (which they will do – you are the most visible person who people can easily walk up to for help), the last thing you want to do is waste time trying to find one. If you have a kit on hand, you can help out any person in need, and get back to your duty and patrol as soon as possible.

Security Guard Training in Illinois

To become a security guard in the state of Illinois, the first thing you must do is obtain a PERC Card (Permanent Employee Registration Card). This process informs Illinois security that you have completed the state identity verification and security clearance process, which includes a criminal background check and fingerprinting. If you do not have a PERC card you will not be able to apply for a security guard job in Illinois until the process is completed and you have obtained a PERC Card.

To apply for your PERC Card, you can visit the PERC Card application page on the Division of Professional Regulation website.

Please note that once you obtain your PERC Card, it does not guarantee that you will be hired – it only allows you to start looking for an employer to hire you.

Obtaining an IL PERC Card

The steps to obtaining your IL PERC Card are as follows:

1. 1. You must be 18 or older to complete the PERC card process. You also must have a social security number and legally be able to work in the US. If these two requirements are met by an individual, they may move on to step 2.
   2. Visit the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional registration: here. You will need a printer, as you will need to download and print the application. https://www.idfpr.com/profs/SecurityCont.asp
      1. Under: Private Security Contractor Agency Registration Application
      2. Click on: Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC) Registration
      3. Select ‘No’ on the questionnaire, then ‘Next’
      4. Complete Form to register
   3. Next, schedule and appear to be fingerprinted for the background checks. On the same webpage as above:
      1. Under: Resources and Publication
      2. Click on: Fingerprint Agency List
   4. Send your completed PERC Card application and receipt of completed fingerprinting, along with a fee of $55.00 to:
      Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
      ATTN: Division of Professional Regulation
      P.O. Box 7007
      Springfield, Illinois 62791
   5. Finally, wait for your card to be approved. You will also need to typically complete approximately 20 hours of classroom training. Some programs are offered on line.

Please note that once you obtain your PERC Card, it does not guarantee that you will be hired – it only allows you to start looking for an employer to hire you as a certified security guard. Some agencies will have additional training and steps they will want you to complete prior to working for them.

Reminder: The application instructions and requirements are outlined for you below, although they are also located on the PERC pdf:

• The security guard applicant must be 18 years of age or older to apply (for unarmed security guards)
• The applicant must provide their social security number
• The applicant is required to pay a $55 fee (make payable to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation).
• The applicant must include a photo (instructions on the PDF linked above)
• The applicant is required to submit the security documents as instructed on pg2 of the PDF linked above, under the “Important Notice Criminal Background Check Information” section

The state of Illinois is able to gather the necessary documents for security clearance verification once you have completed the fingerprinting scan procedure. This process enables Illinois to run a background check for you to make sure you have not committed any felonies and are allowed to work as a security guard.

You must go through a Livescan Certified Vendor; Illinois approved vendors are listed here.

Illinois Security Guard Training Requirements

In addition to the PERC card, you will also most likely be required, to complete 20 hours of security guard training.

You can take these courses at most of the local community colleges or at firms that are certified to provide security guard training.

After you obtain your PERC card, check with your potential employers as to what the exact training requirements may be, in case the specific company requires additional training.