Requirements For Becoming A Security Guard: All You Need To Know

Becoming a security guard is a great career path for those who are looking for a stable job with the opportunity to protect people and property. Security guards play an essential role in maintaining safety in various settings, such as businesses, shopping malls, and private properties. However, the journey to becoming a security guard involves understanding the requirements, acquiring the necessary skills, and knowing how to advance within the industry.

Key Takeaways

• State-Specific Licensing: Requirements to become a security guard vary by state, including age, training, and background checks.
• Skills and Qualities: A security guard should possess a mix of physical, mental, and interpersonal skills to perform well on the job.
• Career Growth: With the right certifications and experience, security guards can advance to specialized roles like executive protection or cybersecurity.

And that is not all, being a security guard is good for anyone’s personal growth as well. Security guards are equipped with enough skills, experience, and training that will surely help them in life. They will have excellent problem-solving skills, can easily handle any situation, and manage risky situations. 

The lives of a security guard sure can look all fine and dandy, but it is filled with challenges as well. They are constantly under threat and have to face many situations that might give many people creeps. You need to do proper research before choosing a career path in the security industry. You need to have the sheer determination and willpower to make a career out of it. 

There are certain requirements you need to fulfill before you are called a security guard. In Canada and USA, there are rigorous courses and training an individual should undergo to exercise their right to become a security guard. If you are thinking of making a career in the same path, we bring you some important requirements. 

Requirements To Become A Security Guard

If you are someone who is residing in Canada or USA then these requirements are going to be useful for you.

Step 1 - Meet The Basic Requirements

Age-

To become a security guard, you must meet minimum age requirements, which typically range from 18 to 21 years, depending on the state or country. Additionally, a clean criminal record is often a prerequisite, particularly when applying for positions that involve carrying firearms or providing high-security services.

Example: In California, a person must be at least 18 years old and must pass a background check before they can receive a security guard license (BSIS, California).

Criminal Record-

You must have a clean criminal record and no cases shall be registered against you. These records might be checked by local state police or the local security guard licensing agency. 

Citizenship

You must be a legal citizen of the country. Or you must be legally allowed to work in the country. 

Language

You must be able to speak and write American English. 

State Government Approved Security License Course

To obtain a security license in the United States or Canada, you must successfully finish an authorized security license course recognized by the respective state. You will need to provide evidence of completing the course, which can include online security license courses. It is advisable to reach out to the relevant state government organization responsible for security licensing to obtain a catalog of approved courses.

Step 2 - Complete The Training 

In Canada, security guards are required to at least complete the basic training to acquire a security license. The number of hours required may vary depending on different states. But each and every guard must complete “Basic Security Training (BST)”

The security guard needs to complete a 40-hour security license training program with basic CPR and first aid certification.

While a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, most states also require security guards to complete certified security guard training programs. This training covers essential topics like conflict resolution, report writing, physical security, and emergency procedures.

Training hours vary by state; for example, California requires a minimum of 40 hours of training, which must be completed over six months. This includes classroom instruction and hands-on training (BSIS, California).

Step 3 - Obtain A Security Guard License  

After completing the required training, aspiring security guards must apply for a state-issued security guard license. This license is a legal requirement to work as a security guard in most states and may involve additional checks, such as fingerprinting or medical evaluations for fitness.

Example: In New York, applicants must submit an application to the New York State Division of Licensing Services, pass a background check, and complete required training hours (NYS Division of Licensing Services).

What Is A Security License?

A security guard license allows you to work in a job where your main task is protecting a property or a person. This includes working as a-

1. Security Guard
2. Bodyguard
3. Bouncer
4. Concierge

A valid security license is required to be eligible for working as a security guard. So make sure that you have a valid license before applying for any security guard position in Canada or USA. After this process is done, you need to pass a security guard test. The price of the test is around $75.15 after the inclusion of taxes. 

Step 4 - Get Registered And Pass The Test

After you have acquired the necessary training with an eligible license you need to get registered and give the mandatory tests. Keep in mind there are some basic guidelines that one must follow while applying for the registration. 

If you have prepared nicely then passing the test must be simple enough. Just follow basic guidelines then you are good to go. Being a security guard requires both mental and physical fitness. Security guards must be able to stand or walk for long periods, lift heavy objects, and respond quickly to emergencies. Mental acuity is equally essential, as guards must make decisions under pressure and handle stressful situations effectively.

Example: Many security companies require their guards to pass a fitness test before employment, which may include endurance exercises and strength assessments.

Step 5 - Find A Job 

Now that you have a license and proper training, it’s time to put all of that hard work to the test. Your real test begins when you have to face the real world and apply for the job. Getting a physical copy of your license may take a while, so make sure you always carry the digital copy with you. 

While applying for security guard positions, make sure you highlight all of the necessary points that are there in your license and if you have any relevant experience. 

Step 6 - Maintain Your License 

Having a license is very important if you want to continue your career in the security industry. Make sure that you periodically check and update your license if there is any need. How often you might need to update it depends upon the state you are working in. There might be a chance that you need to pay a minimal renewal fee and undergo ongoing training as well. 

Do remember to keep updated with the latest training requirements and you have maintained your license so that you can easily find success in the field. While basic security guard training is sufficient for most entry-level positions, pursuing additional certifications can significantly boost your career prospects. For example, security guards can specialize in armed security, cybersecurity, or executive protection.

One valuable certification is the Physical Security Professional (PSP) certification, offered by ASIS International. This advanced credential demonstrates expertise in physical security systems and is highly regarded in the industry (ASIS International).

How To Keep Updated With Your Security License  

If you own a security-providing service then you must be aware of the significance of holding a security license. You need to worry about the license of your security guard expiring, and you won’t want to miss out on any of the updation dates. Hence using security guard software will be beneficial as it will give up repeated reminders on when the license is expiring. These reminders will help you keep track of the licenses of your security guards. 

There are other features as well, such as scheduling, incident report sending, GPS tracking, geofencing, and timesheets that you might find helpful. These management tools will be helpful in security guard tracking and managing the workforce altogether.

Key Skills and Qualities of a Successful Security Guard

Security guards need to possess certain personal qualities and soft skills to succeed in their role. These traits help ensure that security personnel not only meet physical demands but also handle a variety of challenges they may encounter on the job.

1. Communication Skills

A security guard must be able to communicate clearly and effectively, both with clients and the general public. This includes being able to write detailed incident reports and de-escalate potentially volatile situations through conversation.

Example: A security guard at a mall might be asked to diffuse an argument between two individuals. Having strong communication skills can prevent escalation and keep the situation calm.

2. Problem-Solving Abilities

Security guards are often faced with unexpected situations, such as accidents, emergencies, or potential security threats. A quick thinker with strong problem-solving skills can make decisions rapidly, ensuring that the situation is handled in the best way possible.

Example: If a security guard notices suspicious behavior in a parking lot, they need to assess the situation quickly and decide whether to confront the individual, call the police, or alert their team.

3. Customer Service Skills

While security guards are responsible for maintaining safety, they are often the first point of contact for people entering a facility. Offering good customer service helps create a positive environment while also fulfilling their security responsibilities.

Example: Greeting visitors politely and providing clear directions enhances the client experience, especially in large office buildings or event venues.

4. Attention to Detail

An observant security guard can spot potential threats or violations of protocol by noticing small details that others may miss. This skill helps in preventing incidents and ensuring that all areas are secure.

Career Advancement in the Security Industry

Security guard jobs are not just limited to entry-level positions. With experience and the right certifications, security guards can climb the career ladder. Here are a few career advancement options:

1. Specialization in Executive Protection

After gaining experience, many security guards transition to more specialized roles, such as executive protection. These positions involve safeguarding high-profile individuals and require specialized training in close protection and risk management.

2. Cybersecurity Roles

With the growing reliance on digital systems, the cybersecurity industry is booming. Experienced security professionals with knowledge of IT and network security can transition into cybersecurity roles, such as security analysts or network administrators.

3. Becoming a Security Supervisor or Manager

Security guards with extensive experience may be promoted to managerial roles, such as security supervisor or security manager, where they oversee the work of other security personnel and manage operations for large facilities or events.

Salary Expectations and Job Outlook

1. Salary Expectations

The salary of a security guard can vary based on location, experience, and job type. On average, a security guard in the United States earns around $38,370 per year, with higher pay for specialized roles like armed security or executive protection.

Example: In metropolitan areas like New York or Los Angeles, security guards may earn higher salaries due to increased demand and cost of living adjustments.

2. Job Outlook

The job outlook for security guards is positive, with a projected growth rate of 2.2% annually between 2020 and 2030. This reflects increasing demand for security services in both private and public sectors, particularly with heightened concerns over safety in public spaces.

Example: The increasing number of businesses, government buildings, and public events is expected to keep the demand for security guards steady over the next decade (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Conclusion

Becoming a security guard requires a combination of physical fitness, mental acuity, and a commitment to customer service. With the right training, certifications, security guard licensing, and soft skills, security guards can build a long-lasting career in this dynamic industry. Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance your career, the security services industry offers a wide range of opportunities for those willing to put in the effort.

Understanding the requirements for becoming a security guard and the available career growth paths is crucial for anyone interested in this field. By investing in training, gaining experience, and continuously improving your skills, you can create a successful and fulfilling career in security services.