A Quick Guide To Obtaining Security Officer Certification

By Krystal Branch


Many people are always keen about their safety, that of their property and loved ones. This causes them to look for different ways to keep off burglars from their homes or offices. Some will also hire trained officers to work as personal bodyguards. What interested parties may not realize is how they can obtain a security officer certification and work in related fields. There are many companies offering security services and these could be main areas where such professionals work. Below is a quick guide on how to qualify for such a position in any company seeking for such personnel.

Applicants must meet several basic requirements, which vary from state to state in the U. S. One must be either 18 to 21 years old, a U. S. Citizen or resident alien. They also should not have been declared incompetent because of a mental defect or medical condition, and not addicted to drugs or alcohol.

In addition to the said requirements, one should attain a certain level of training. Always find out from your State the details about this process. Some States will require a four-hour course where trainees get some orientation, train on emergency procedures, as well as limitation of an officer and their legal powers when executing duties. This course may take up to eight hours in some States.

It is necessary to obtain necessary licenses for this work. Students must not only be willing to train only, but also, ready to pay the fees associated with becoming a certified guards. These fees range from $20 up to $300. Always note that application fees are non-refundable.

Every armed officer must renew their license after two years. This goes in hand with a four-hour refresher course on firearms use. Officers who do not pass this course will hardly qualify for their licenses. This means they lose their job or repeat the course until the examiners feel the trainee is fit for the work.

Today, those in search of a suitable college to train have many options. These institutions not only provide classroom lessons and practical training, but also, self-study, drills and e-learning opportunities. The subjects studied cover on basic first aid, criminal justice, use of force, private security as well as search and seizure. Other than the traditional lectures, there are opportunities for small group discussions and conjured experiences for study purposes.

There is a written exam every student should sit for and pass besides the class work. These have a minimum score of 75 percent. Apply with a valid ID and a copy of fingerprints taken by recommended authorities. One can also study online if they lack the time to follow traditional class schedules.

Once certified, such a professional can pursue positions in security agencies, hospitals, housing complexes, retail, public schools and construction. But it does not stop there; they can further their careers into homeland or industrial security, criminal investigation, law enforcement or public safety. Under the umbrella of public safety are even more opportunities at the local, state, federal and private level. Although achieving security officer certification presents many challenges, the rewards of this crucial profession benefit not only the one who protects, but also, the protected.




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