Armed Security Guard Training Requirements in Indiana

Applicants for armed security guard positions in the State of Indiana are required to obtain a license. License acquisition involves provision of personal information and completion of state-certified training course. This is under the state legislative regulation IC 25-30-1-3 Section 3. However, applicants without a license can still work under a licensed agency, given that the company will be held responsible, and applicants are able to provide the necessary requirements, based on the statutes and rules IC 25-30-1-11 Employees of licensee.  

Before obtaining a license, armed security guard applicants must meet the standards of the employer and the state which includes the following;

• Applicants must be 21 years of age or older.
• He or she must be a United States citizen or if a legal alien, will be able to provide a valid working permit.
• He or she must present proof of high school education such as diploma or certificate of equivalency.
• Applicants should be able to submit fingerprints.
• Applicants are required to submit to a background check done by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
• Applicants should pass drug tests.
• There should be no found records of felony conviction or acts of crime involving illegal use of weapons.
• He or she should be able to complete the state-certified training course.
• He or she must be in good physical condition and must have good communication skills.
• Applicants should be able to present a driver’s license and provide a valid social security number.

Application Information

Application fee is required by the state, which is as of February 2011, worth $150 payable to the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is tasked to perform background checks to every applicant. Any records of crime involvement and illegal use of weapons will be possible grounds for disqualification. The background checks will also provide information as to whether the applicant is not prohibited by the state to acquire a license.

Security Guard Training Course

For armed security guard applicants, more rigid training is required. Some employers and hiring companies also requires further background checks and specialization in the use of weapons. License will not be issued to applicants who completed their training outside the State of Indiana. Security guard training courses should be certified and approved by the state and should meet the standard set by the Indiana Department of Public Safety.

Basic training covers the following:

•   Professionalism and public relations
•   Methods of detainment
•   Application of non-lethal force
•   Dealing with fire and medical emergencies
•   Legal use of force
•   Observation and patrol

For armed guards, further training includes:

•   Proper use and handling of firearms
•   Marksmanship
•   Weapon’s safety
•   Laws on firearms

All issued licenses for armed security guards are valid for four years. Security guard license holders should be able to process license renewal before the expiration date or they will be required to undergo and complete another set of full training to be reinstated.