Armed Security Guard Training Requirements in Vermont

In the state of Vermont, being an armed security officer also means you have bigger responsibilities compared to an unarmed guard. That is why it is mandated that an armed guard must have a license both in security and firearms in order to hold a position in the security sector. As outline in Title 21 Section 3174, armed security officers in the state of Vermont must complete the application form and must submit other information in other to qualify as an armed guard.

The following are the basic requirements needed for the position:   

• Applicants must be at least 21 years of age. 
• Has valid photo identification. 
• Must have a valid driver’s license in the state of Vermont. 
• A valid social security number is also required. 
• Must submit two sets of fingerprint cards. 
• Must pass 2 passport size photos. 
• Must have a certificate of completion of 40 hours of classroom training. 
• Must be mentally and physically healthy. 
• Applicants must pass drug screening.
• Must not be convicted of any serious felonies or misdemeanors. 
• Must have no alcohol or drug dependence. 
• Applicant must have no physical or mental disabilities that will hinder him/her from performing security duties. 
• Must submit to a full background check. 
• Applicants must give the correct information and must complete the application form properly. False information and incomplete application forms will be denied of an armed security license.
• All applicants are required to pass the examination outlined in Title 26, Section 3175.

Armed security guards are required to go through basic security guard training that must be conducted by a board approved instructor. This will train them to become seasoned armed guard and enhance their skills needed to perform their security duties. The training must be done in a certified facility approved by the state and must be given by a certified instructor with at least two years of experience in the subject matter.

Topics may include the following but may also be added depending on the instructor: 

• Customer Service Issues: Working with and addressing the public 
• First Aid Overview
• Report Writing
• Incident Response
• Security Resources: Surveillance operation and documentation
• Role of Private Security 
• Legal Aspects
• Patrol and Observation

This training will last for 40 hours over all. In addition to that a firearms training must also be completed at least 2 years before you submit your application. This is required for all armed security officers in the state of Vermont.

The firearms training will involve the following: 

• Firing Range 
• Basic firearm safety and  (12 hours) 
• Legal responsibility (included in the 12 hours) 
• Use and safety of your particular handgun (4 hours) 
• Successful pass exam