Armed Security Guard Training Requirements in Rhode Island

In the state of Rhode Island, applicants for unarmed security guard position must first acquire a license. Administration and regulation of all issued licenses is overseen by the Attorney General’s office. There are certain requirements and standards to be met in order to be qualified and land the employment. These are basic criteria that are common to almost all the states in the U.S.  

Applicants must be able to meet the following:

• The applicant must be at least 21 years old or older.
• The applicant must be allowed to work as a citizen or a legal resident alien with a valid working permit in the United States.
• He or she must have a good moral character.
• He or she should possess mental competence in doing the job.
• He or she should be physically fit and capable to perform security guard duties without any disabilities.
• All applicants must not be found with records of drug and alcohol addiction and distribution.
• All applicants must not have been convicted of any felony, acts of crime and illegal activity.
• All applicants must submit to a criminal background check.
• He or she must not be a holder of a revoked security guard license.
• He or she must show the need to carry weapons.

Application Information

Supporting documents and proof must also be submitted upon application. The applicant must be able to supply sufficient information about him or herself, as this will be evaluated to see if he or she qualifies for the job. This usually includes personal information, history of previous employments and records of convictions- if any. A criminal state and national background check must also be completed. This will show if the applicant had previous records of felony convictions and acts of crime. If any, this can become grounds for denial of application. It is also important that each of the candidates pass drug testing. This will prove that they are capable and qualified to perform security guard duties with competence and reliability. Armed guards are required to secure a permit to carry concealed weapons, issued by the state.

Security Guard Training Course

Training is required most especially for armed guards, since their position are among those with high risks. The security guard training program should be completed in a certified facility or as provided by the hiring company. This will certainly equip the person with the knowledge used in dealing with every situation he or she will encounter on the job.

Training covers the following:

• Roles of Private security
• Ethical and legal issues
• Patrol and Observation
• Immediate response to fire and medical emergencies
• Professionalism and public dealings
• Firearms training and safety
• Use of legal force

Applicants must be able to submit proof of firearms training and safety from a certified instructor. Most armed guards are employed in areas which require utmost protection such as private properties and government facilities.