Becoming a security guard is not quite as hard as becoming a police officer or an FBI agent, but many positions in this field require specific training and certification. Those who are interested in a career as a security guard need to decide what kind of security they want to provide as there are different levels with different training and certification requirements. Some people who become security guards were once involved in law enforcement and others have never held a position in law enforcement.
While most states require a license of some sort, the actual requirements for certification and training vary, so it is important that candidates should check the specific requirements in the state in which they wish to obtain their certification and license. In all states, however, a person must be at least 18 years old and pass a background check and a drug screening in order to qualify for certification.
There is no specific academic requirement for this career, but many candidates find it helpful to take a semester or two of courses related to this field or even to obtain an associate’s degree in criminal justice. It can also be advantageous to check into surveillance officer requirements and become familiar with the tools used in this field such as camera equipment. You may also want to learn how to spot scammers professionally.
Basic security guard training includes training in property rights, emergency procedures, forms of restraint and detaining criminal suspects. This, typically, requires an eight-hour course. In order to become an armed guard, working with an armored truck or in a bank for instance, you will also need to have formal training in weapons use, marksmanship and keeping weapon safe during a physical confrontation. You will also get introduced to laws related to the use of force. The courses for this position can vary from eight to forty hours.
For positions with the federal government, candidates will be required to pass a first aid test, a firearms test including marksmanship and a written examination. These candidates may need an associate or bachelors degree. In order to become an airport security guard, you must, at least, have a high school diploma although formal education is preferred as the majority of these positions are available from the United States Department of Homeland Security. There is between 56 and 72 hours of classroom training required for these positions. Candidates will learn security law and regulations, emergency preparedness and domestic and international terrorism prevention.
It is important for you to decide what field you want work in, as a security guard. This is a matter of personal choice, but you should take into account a number of important factors. Consider your age, physical condition and personal interests. Take into account the training required to get a job. More importantly, look at the salaries and career advancement opportunities in the different fields. It is also important for you to check the availability of the different types of security guard jobs available in your area of residence.
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I would like to obtain a career as a security officer or guard an preferred to be armed.I have 4 to 5yrs of security exp an would like to exp being a armed security officer.So i would like to get some training an persue a career in aremed security.Thank U..
Thanks for your comment. Having some significant security experience should put you in a great position to apply for a security guard job. Have a look at the posts on this site that will help you work out what you need to do for each state.
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