Armed Security Guard Training Requirements in South Dakota

According to SDCL 22-14-11, armed security guards in the state of South Dakota must acquire weapons permit to be able to perform the duties of such position. License for security guards is not governed by the state but applies to companies under the business of providing security services. Although this is the case, there are certain requirements and standards that should be met by each applicant wishing to land the job.  

Among these are the following:

• The person applying must be at least 21 years old and above.
• He or she must present a high school diploma or any equivalent upon application.
• He or she must not have records of being convicted of felony, and acts of crime including fraud.
• He or she must not be associated with any illegal use of weapons.
• The applicant must not be drug and alcohol dependent, or have a history of addiction to such items.
• The applicant must be a citizen or a resident alien of the United States.
• If required by the employer, the applicant must be willing to go through a criminal background check.
• He or she must be of good moral character.
• He or she must be in good physical and mental condition.
• The applicant must be skilled and knowledgeable in the field of work.

Application Information

As said before, license acquisition is not governed by the state. The hiring company will however, set the standards for qualification. This may include submission of the necessary documents along with a filled-out application form. Armed security guard applicants are mostly required to undergo further security guard training and background investigation as part of their standard procedures. Each applicant must also pass drug testing and training examinations, depending upon the employer.

It is very important that the person applying for the job is cleared of felony convictions and illegal activities that place him or her as a danger to anyone for the past ten years. Any involvement to such, especially illegal use of firearms and controlled substances will immediately be grounds for denial of application.

The permit to carry firearms will be issued temporarily for five days. On the seventh day, the sheriff’s office will send a copy to the secretary of state, who will issue the official permit.

Security Guard Training Course

Armed guards, most especially, must complete the required training programs to be fully equipped with the necessary factors needed on the job.

Training may include one or more of the following topics:

• Legal and ethical issues
• Detainment of suspects
• Legal use of deadly force
• Immediate response to emergencies
• Proper use of non-lethal force
• Public dealings
• Weapons training
• Marksmanship and target practice.

Weapons permit is valid only for four years and must be renewed prior to the expiration date.