Security Guard Certification

To be a security guard may seem easier than to be a police officer. This is part of the reason why it is becoming popular to job searchers. However, this doesn’t mean that application for such position is easy. The duty of a security guard involves law enforcement and maintaining order in the society. With this heavy responsibility, one who wishes to apply, whether as armed or unarmed guards, must pass the standards and meet the requirements of the state where they belong or the hiring company they choose to work for. It is very important to screen applicants for this job. All applicants must prove to be capable of handling every situation that may occur, especially those which involves the safety and protection of the general public.    

Standards and Basic Requirements

Security guard certification varies among states. In some states, there are no rules governing the license of security guards. However, you can find that almost all of them have common standards and requirements when it comes to the qualification of applicants. 

•  Age Requirement  

For unarmed security guard applicants, the age requirement starts from 18 years old at the least. Armed guards on the other hand must be 21 years old and above. The reason for this is that the state only issues weapons permit to those within that age bracket. 

•   Education  

All applicants must possess a high school diploma. This is in accordance to the United Stated BLS or the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. Candidates must be mentally capable of performing the job and must have the necessary skills needed. Other companies prefer applicants with a bachelor degree relevant to the field of work. 

•   Citizenship  

It is important that the applicant is legally allowed to work in the United States. Applicants must secure a valid working permit and proof that they are U.S. citizens or resident aliens. 

Training Requirements

This procedure is mandatory even among states which do not require their applicants to be licensed. Training is very important to make sure that all applicants are knowledgeable and skilled when it comes to dealing with every situation they will have to face on the job. Basic training is the same for both armed and unarmed security guard aspirants, which usually includes legal and ethical issues, patrol and observation, crowd control, detainment of criminal suspects, response to emergencies and written reports. Further training is required for armed guards which cover proper handling of firearms, legalities involving the use of force and marksmanship. 

The required hours of training will differ among states. Usually, there will be additional training to be completed after employment and refresher courses taken each year.  

There are also mandatory fees that must be paid along with the application. This will cover license processing, fingerprints and fees for background investigation. 

If you are planning to land a job as a security guard, make sure that you have what it takes and that you meet all of the requirements and standards of the state to which you belong.