- 18403 Pioneer Blvd Ste 207 Artesia, CA 90701-4615
- License No: PPO 122551
How to Become a Security Guard: The Definitive Guide
What is a Security Guard?
Duties of a Security Guard
These include:
- Communicate with law enforcement
- Document daily activities and disturbances
- Interview witnesses
- Testify in court
- Ensure all safety precautions are done
- Test and fix security alarms
How to Become a Security Guard
Step 1: Meet Minimum Requirements
How to Become a Security Guard begins with meeting certain minimum requirements. Here’s what you need to get started:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old. If you plan to carry weapons, you need to be 21.
- Education: A high school diploma or equivalent (such as a GED) is necessary.
- Language Skills: You need to be able to speak, read, and write in English.
- Clean Record: You must have a felony-free record.
Step 2: Gain Employment
Once you meet the minimum requirements, it’s time to find a job. Security guards can work in various roles, such as:
- Commissioned Officer: Provides protection and can carry weapons.
- Non-Commissioned Officer: Works without weapons and focuses on general security duties.
- Off-Duty Police Officer: Provides security while off-duty, often in a specialized role.
- Personal Protection Officer: Protects individuals, often high-profile ones.
- Remote CCTV Monitor: Monitors security cameras from a remote location.
Step 3: Start Training
Training is an essential part of How to Become a Security Guard. Here’s what you can expect to learn:
- Public Relations: How to interact with people effectively.
- Protection: Techniques and strategies for ensuring safety.
- First Aid: Basic medical care skills in case of emergencies.
- Report Writing: How to document incidents clearly and accurately.
Step 4: Become Licensed
After you gain your license, there are many places to find employment:
- Retail stores
- Office buildings
- Banks
- Hotels
- Factories
- Government buildings
- Schools
- Universities
- Parks
- Theme Parks
- Bars and nightclubs
- Prisons
Education
Some of the classes that you can expect to take for a criminal justice program include:
- Criminology
- Ethics
- Criminal Law
- Foundations of Corrections
- Intro to Law Enforcement
- Criminal Procedure
Certifications and Licensing
Certifications enhance your qualifications and career prospects.
- Certified Protection Professional (CPP): Demonstrates expertise in security management.
- Professional Certified Investigator (PCI): Focuses on investigative skills.
- Associate Protection Professional (APP): Entry-level certification for protection professionals.
- Physical Security Professional (PSP): Specializes in physical security assessments and management.
To obtain these certifications, you need knowledge in areas such as:
- Security Fundamentals
- Business Operations
- Risk Management
- Response Management
Working Environments for Security Guards
Security guards work in various settings, including:
- Retail Stores: Protects stores from theft and vandalism.
- Office Buildings: Ensures the safety of employees and property.
- Banks: Provides security for financial institutions.
- Hotels: Keeps guests and property secure.
- Factories: Safeguards industrial sites and equipment.
- Government Buildings: Protects important government facilities.
- Schools and Universities: Maintains safety on educational campuses.
- Parks and Theme Parks: Ensures a safe environment for visitors.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Manages security in entertainment venues.
- Prisons: Provides security within correctional facilities.
FAQs
Becoming a security guard typically takes a few months. This includes meeting requirements, completing training, and obtaining a license.
Yes, security guards need skills in communication, observation, and problem-solving. They also need to handle emergencies effectively.
Salaries vary depending on location and role. On average, security guards earn between $25,000 and $45,000 annually.
Yes, but they must obtain a license specific to the state in which they are working.
Absolutely! With experience and additional certifications, security guards can advance to roles such as security manager or investigator.
