Become a security guard in Florida

To become a security guard in Florida, you'll need to follow these steps:

Meet the minimum requirements: To be a security guard in Florida, you must be at least 18 years old, have a diploma or GED, and pass a level 2 criminal background check.
Complete the required training: Florida requires all security guards to complete a 40-hour training course that covers topics such as legal responsibilities, emergency procedures, and patrolling techniques. You can find approved training providers through the Division of Licensing.
Apply for a security guard license: Once you’ve completed your training, you’ll need to apply for a security guard license through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Division of Licensing. You’ll need to provide proof of your training and pay a fee.
Find job openings: You can search for security guard job openings in Florida through job search websites, classified ads, and the websites of security companies.
Apply for jobs: When you find a job opening that interests you, follow the application instructions provided by the employer. You may need to submit a resume, cover letter, and other supporting documents.
Prepare for interviews: If you are invited to an interview, research the company beforehand and prepare to answer common interview questions. You may also be asked to demonstrate your skills, such as by showing how you would handle a security situation.
Get hired: If you are selected for the job, you’ll need to complete any additional training required by your employer and obtain any necessary certifications, such as CPR or first aid.

Can I complete the security guard training online?

Yes, you can complete the required security guard training online in Florida. However, it’s crucial to pick a training provider that has received approval from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) and offers a 40-hour online course that satisfies state requirements.

When you get your security guard license from FDACS, you must prove that you have finished the online training course. You can apply for a license online through the FDACS website, but you must send your fingerprints to a local law enforcement agency for a background check.

While the training can be completed online, there may be additional requirements that need to be completed in person, such as fingerprinting and taking the state exam. It is essential to check with FDACS and the training provider for additional requirements.

Meet the eligibility requirements: You must be a legal resident of the United States, at least 18 years of age, and have no disqualifying criminal history.
Complete the required training: You must complete a 40-hour training course that covers topics such as legal issues, emergency procedures, and the use of firearms.
Apply for a license: You can apply for a security guard license through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) website. You will need to provide your personal information, training certificate, and a set of fingerprints.
Pass a background check: FDACS will conduct a criminal background check to ensure you meet the requirements for licensure.
Pay the security D license application fee: The fee for a security guard license in Florida is $45.
Renew your license: Your security guard license in Florida must be renewed every two years. You must complete eight hours of continuing education and submit a renewal application along with the fee.

Once you have completed these steps, you will receive your security guard license from FDACS, allowing you to work as a security guard in Florida. The duration of a security license in Florida depends on the license type.

For Class D Security Officer licenses, which are the most common type of security license in Florida, the license is valid for two years from the date of issuance.
For Class G Statewide Firearms Licenses, which allow security officers to carry firearms while on duty, the license is also valid for two years from the date of issuance.

It’s important to know that security officers in Florida must finish the required continuing education courses and submit a renewal application before their licenses expire to get their licenses renewed. Failure to renew the license on time may result in a lapse of licensure, leading to disciplinary action and/or fines.

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Are security companies hiring armed guards in Florida?

Yes, some security companies in Florida do hire armed guards, but the requirements for becoming an armed security guard are more stringent than for unarmed guards. In addition to the 40-hour training course for security guards who don’t carry guns, you’ll need to take a 28-hour course just for armed security guards. You’ll also need to pass a firearms proficiency test and meet other qualifications, such as having a clean criminal record and being at least 21 years old.

It’s important to note that not all security guard positions require an armed guard and that they may only be needed in certain situations, such as for high-value targets or events with heightened security concerns. The decision to hire armed guards is ultimately up to the employer, and they will assess the level of risk and need for armed security based on their specific situation.

An armed security guard license in Florida is a permit that allows an individual to work as a security guard while carrying a firearm. In Florida, individuals who wish to become armed security guards must first complete a 40-hour security guard training course and then an additional 28-hour course for firearms training.

After getting the proper training, people who want a Class G Statewide Firearms License must fill out an application and send it to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The application process includes a criminal background check, fingerprinting, and a fee.

Armed security guards in Florida must follow strict rules and regulations while on the job. This includes rules about how to handle and store a gun correctly, as well as regular tests and training to keep their license.