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.

Always learn about the basic requirements for this certification and try to adhere when applying. These requirements may vary depending on the State or country you are in. For some States in the U. S, an applicant must have attained 18 or 21 years of age, a permanent citizen or resident alien. They also should have no conditions whether physical or medical that can have them declared incompetent. Other issues would be dependency on drugs and other addictive substances.

It is necessary for such applicants to meet training requirements. These vary depending on the State and those interested should check with the relevant department. Some States require that trainees take a four-hour course that will cover various subjects including legal powers and limitations of such an officer, orientation, emergency procedures and introduction to non-lethal weapons. This course can also take up to eight hours in other States.

Get the required licenses for this job. These will attract some charges other than the training fees and one should pay within the agreed time. Charges for the license range between $20 and $300. The application fee is in most cases non-refundable.

Any armed office will need to pay for renewal of their license after every two years. During this exercise, they ought to sit for a refresher course and do an exam which will determine if they re-qualify for their license. Be keen with such training as you can easily repeat or lose the license if you fail. This means you possibly lose your employment too.

There are various institutions offering courses for those pursuing certification. These institutions provide classroom learning, hands-on training, practice and drills, self-study, and e-learning. Some of the classes students will take are basic criminal justice, private security, basic first aid, use of force, search and seizure. In addition to traditional classroom lectures, applicants can also participate in small group discussions and simulated experiences.

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.

Certified professionals have employment opportunities with various organizations. Security agencies, public schools, businesses and housing complexes are among the areas such professionals can offer their services. One can also grow in their career and join agencies like homeland security, law enforcement, public safety and criminal investigation departments. Even if attaining a security officer certification may take your time and resources, this is a very noble vocation. It is greatly beneficial not only to the officers but also the community.




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