Armed Security Guard Training Requirements in Minnesota

As the twelfth largest state in the United State, Minnesota is one of the best places to live in the US. With its great lakes and booming economy, it sure is a good place to work and settle down. Minnesota offers individuals the chance to work as an armed security officer. Although being a security guard in the state of Minnesota does not require you to be a licensed guard, carrying firearms however needs to have a permit.  

Armed security guards in the state of Minnesota fall under the Protective Agency. This is an agency which offers security services and is approved by the state. Although security guards are not required to have license in the state, the contracting security agent however must be licensed.

The criteria for an armed security guard are as follows:

• Applicants must be 21 years old.
• A citizen of the United States or a registered resident alien.
• Must have a valid driver’s license in the state of Minnesota
• Has been checked for his/her background.
• Must pass the drug test given.
• Must be in good physical condition.
• Have no psychological disorders that can impede his functions and abilities to perform his/her duties as an armed security officer.
• Must not be drug or alcohol dependent.
• Has no history of any criminal convictions or fraud.

Such security guard training courses may also be given to armed security guards. Applicants must complete the number of hours in order to be certified as an armed security officer and have their weapons permit.

This training consists of 12 hours reassignment training which may include but not limited to the following:

• Private Security Role and duties
• Legal Affairs
• Incident Response
• Working with and addressing the public
• First Aid & CPR
• Surveillance operation and documentation

In addition to the 12 hours of initial training, armed security guards in Minnesota must complete an additional 12 hours of armed training. Additionally, all armed guards must complete six hours continuing training annually. Another license is required in order to carry a concealed weapon. Take note that in order to have this permit, you must have both residency and must be a US citizen. Being free from drug or alcohol dependencies is also a must.

The training will involve the following:

• Safe carrying and storage of a weapon
• Legal issues related to weapon use
• Use and care of a weapon
• Conflict avoidance strategies

Armed security officers can patrol areas where suspicious individuals are noted. They are also trained to handle threats that may occur. Some armed guards can work directly for a company or businesses though there may be times that they are required to have a license.

Sources:

http://degreedirectory.org/articles/How_Do_I_Earn_a_Security_Guard_License.html 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minnesota