Armed Security Guard Training Requirements in Iowa

To be employed as an armed security guard in the state of Iowa, applicants must first acquire a license issued by the Iowa Department of Public Safety. The state also requires each applicant to go through a security guard training course in a certified facility. These requirements are covered under the Code of Iowa Chapter 80 A, Iowa Administrative Code 661 Chapter 2.

Basic criteria for unarmed guards also apply for armed guards and should be met upon license application.   

• Armed security guard applicants must be 21 years old or older. 
• Applicants should present a high school diploma or any equivalent documents and certification. 
• Applicants must be citizens of the U.S. or a legal resident alien. 
• He or she must display good moral character. 
• He or she should not be involved with any acts of fraud and should not have records of felony convictions. 
• Applicants must be mentally sound. 
• Applicants should not have a history of alcohol and drug addiction. 
• Fingerprints must be submitted. 
• A criminal background check by the Federal Bureau of Investigation should be completed. 
• Applicants must be able to attend and pass the required training courses. 

Application Information 

Every applicant is also required to submit a written form containing general information including education, personal history, and contact and mailing address. These forms can be directly acquired from the employer or downloaded from the Iowa Department of Public Safety website. The Department also allows mailing of application, given that the required amount of fee is provided. 

Independent agents have additional requirements before application. If an applicant is self-employed and is not under any licensed agency, he or she must first pass a certification examination. Applicants under this category should also secure a $5,000 bond from the bonding company which they desire, and submit the proof of bond along with the application.

Listed below are the fees required for license acquisition. 

- $100 license fee 

- $30 fingerprint processing fee 

- $10 application fee 

- $15 application through mail 

- $10 Identification Card fee 

Security Guard Training Course 

Individuals wanting to be hired as armed security guards must complete and pass the required training under a state-certified training facility. Armed guards will go through more firm training compared to unarmed guards, especially on firearms specialization. 

Training course covers the following: 

•  Issues on laws and ethics 
•  Legal use of force 
•  Detainment of criminal suspects 
•  Response to fire emergencies 
•  Response to medical emergencies 
•  Laws governing firearms 
•  Marksmanship and target practice 

Fire and safety training should be conducted by NRA certified trainers, and applicants should be able to submit an affidavit signed and approved by the NRA instructor. 

The county sheriff will release the weapon permit after completing background check and application procedures. Issued security guard license is only valid for two years and must be renewed a month before the date of expiration.