How to Become an Armed Security Guard?
Armed Security guard is supposed to protect and serve, but how do they go about doing these things? You think that it’s a piece of cake, but there’s more to it.
Even if you make the proper preparations and have the necessary tools to be a security guard, success still requires a lot of work.
Not everyone can be equipped to become a security guard, and we’ll help you figure out if you’re cut out for this job. Here, we will discuss steps on how to become an armed security guard.
See the State’s Requirements
To get an security guard license, you need to meet certain requirements. However, each state sets its requirements, so it can be confusing to figure out what you need to do.
Some states require security guards to carry additional licenses. So it’s important to know your state’s laws before you go out with your Maglite and dreams of glory.
Most of the time, the process has similar steps for each state. However, some formalities may differ.
Meeting Minimum Requirements
To be licensed for armed security, you must meet certain basic requirements set by the state. For example, Illinois law requires that all candidates for armed security guard licenses pass a criminal background check and submit to a drug test.
In addition, applicants must pass a written exam testing their knowledge of firearms laws and regulations and state and federal laws governing commercial property rights and use of force by private security.
Furthermore, you must also consider these minimum requirements:
Legal citizenship status
At least a high school diploma
Other legal documentation
Training for Armed Security Guard
If you want to become an armed security guard, you must take training courses. If you do not take them, you will not carry a gun or other weapon on the job.
After a thorough training period, you will be issued a certificate that signifies your eligibility to become an armed security guard.
The long process can appear complicated and overwhelming at times, but you will be on your way to becoming a trained professional upon completion.
Getting an Unarmed License
Before you apply for and get your license, there are two important things to consider. First — get the required unarmed license. In most states, this is the first step towards getting your license or certification. Second — get armed security guard training relevant to your state. Again, this is because every state has different requirements when it comes to training.
We recommend that you get an unarmed license first to know what it takes to be and what it means to be a security guard. Only after you pass the training should you try to pursue armed training. Once you get through unarmed training, it will be much easier for you to get your armed security license.
Complete State’s Firearms Training
There are rules and regulations you need to know about when it comes to firearms. It is premature and downright dangerous to think that you can go out on the streets with a gun without going through state-mandated firearms training.
If you’re interested in getting your armed Security guard license, the first thing you’ll have to do is complete state-approved firearms training. This ensures your and other people’s safety.
Passing A Mandatory Drug Test
Failing a drug screening for an armed security guard license can easily be one of the most embarrassing moments in your life, yet it often happens.
Anyone who has chosen to pursue a career as an armed security guard should know their state’s requirements on passing drug and alcohol tests before they apply for the license or before they test for drugs.
Some states do not require it. However, most of them do. Check with your local regulator and see what are the requirements for screening and get prepared.
Final Word
Armed security officers carry weapons and perform a wide variety of law enforcement duties. To become an armed security guard, you need to follow the state guidelines, including completing the required training for a license.
You may have dreams of becoming a federal agent one day or even saving the world, but your first step will be obtaining an armed security guard license. So many people dream about being able to protect people. They want to give this gift, but not everyone can handle carrying a gun.
Having an armed security guard license allows you the opportunity to serve others in more ways than you think. Not only will you protect them from criminals, keep them secure, and make their lives easier, you will help them feel safe as well.
Tell us in the comments below if you found this post useful and if it helped you in your career.
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