Armed Security Guard Training Requirements in Tennessee

Applying as an armed security officer in the state of Tennessee requires an individual to meet all the needed qualifications. All armed security guards must meet the registration requirements in order to obtain a license and become an authorized person to carry a firearm.

The following are the requirements needed:  

• Applicants for an armed security guard must at least be 21 years old.
• A resident of the United States and must have a proof of residency if a resident alien.
• A valid driver’s license is also needed.
• Must be free from any alcohol or drug dependence.
• Must be physically and mentally healthy.
• Must have no physical disabilities that can hinder him/her from his security guard duties.
• Must have good moral character.
• Must be free of convictions and must not have probation for 5 years for serious crimes or any crimes involving firearms, violence or shoplifting.
• Must submit fingerprints cards for processing by TBI.
• Must have his/her background check FBI style.
• Must meet the statutory training requirements.

Candidates are required to complete a 4 hour basic security guard training.  This training includes an examination after which includes all subjects taken during training.

The subjects may include all but not limited to the following:

• Orientation
• General duties
• Legal powers and limitations of a security officer
• Emergency procedures 
• Any additional training for weapon or other devices that are less than lethal to use  
• Any additional training for weapon or other devices that are less than lethal to use

An individual who is applying for as an armed guard must complete 8 hours of training of the following:

• Handling of firearm
• Safety and maintenance of firearms
• Legal limitations on the use of firearm

An additional requirement for an armed security officer requires applicants to complete 4 hours of marksmanship training and must achieve at least 70% on any silhouette target course as approved by the commissioner. Upon receiving your armed guard license, this is valid for two years and must be renewed every two years as well.

Every 2 years, armed security guards are mandated to complete 4 hours of refresher course and training in order to qualify again in using a firearm. They are expected to at least pass 70% of any silhouette target course approved by the commissioner prior to the renewal of their guard registration.

Armed security officer can work in banks, hospitals, museums, schools, residential complexes, airports and other business establishments both private and public. They can also choose an option of working for a private person or work as a bodyguard for any high profiled person. Training and additional courses may be added depending on the company that hired them as well as the requirements that they require an individual.

Sources:

http://tn.gov/commerce/boards/pps/asgoReqs.shtml