Armed Security Guard Training Requirements in Texas

Texas is the 2nd largest state in terms of area and population in the United States. With its booming population and economy, the need for security is also in demand. To become and armed security guard in Texas, you must be registered and employed with a security agency. A firearms permit and registration card is required upon application. For your license and permits, the Texas Department of Public Safety will handle them for you. However, you must also meet the required basic qualifications in order to work as an armed security officer in the state of Texas.

The following are required for every applicant:   

• Applicant must be at least 21 years old. If you are honorably discharged in the military, applicants must be at least 18 years old. 
• Must be a resident of the United States or a registered resident alien with proof of residency. 
• Must have a valid social security number. 
• Must have a valid Texas state driver’s license. 
• Applicant must have a Level II certificate of completion. 
• Must pass passport size photos for identification. 
• Must have no felony convictions or any crime involving the illegal use of weapons. 
• Must pass drug screening and testing. 
• Applicant must successfully pass a criminal background check. 
• Must be mentally competent. 
• Must pass 2 fingerprint cards. 
• Must complete Level III classroom training as well as firearms training. 

In order to become an armed security guard, applicants must complete a 30 hour security guard training course at a certified facility. This is the requirements needed for the applicant as outlined in the Texas Administrative Code, Texas Department of Public Safety.

Training must be taken at a certified facility and will include the following: 

• Training in firearms 
• Criminal detainment 
• Training in CPR and emergency first aid 
• Crowd dispersement 
• Firearms safety 
• Education in the Texas Occupation code 1702 from the Texas Private Security Bureau 
• Report Writing 
• Preparation for the end of training written exams 

Also, aside from the passport size pictures, applicants must submit a colored 3”x5” photograph. This will be taken wearing the security uniform and another will be required at 8”x10” in uniform to be kept for filing. Both pictures should show the badge, nameplate and shoulder patch. 

As mentioned there will also be another 30 hour training course to be completed by the applicant. An armed security guard will be trained to handle camera employment and alarm operation. The armed security guard application will include proof training and copies of successful final examination, fingerprinting, submission to drug testing, complete background check and a proof that he/she is able to work in the United States legally. 

License can be applied after being employed by a licensed security company with a permanent card issued in four to six weeks. For renewal, card holders must renew their license 6 days prior to its expiration date of the permanent license if you are still employed as an armed security guard. 

If the applicant wishes to change employers, the state of Texas allows the license to be transferred and will not need to be reapplied for until the date of expiration. However, if the applicant has been charged of felony or certain Class B misdemeanors within the past 20 years or any conviction involving the prohibited use of firearms, application will be declined.

Sources: 

http://www.aboutsecurityguardtraining.com/armed-security-guard-training-texas/