How To Become A Security Guard

In order to become a security guard, bodyguard, bouncer, security officer, or other form of security professional, you will need to seek certified security training in most states and jurisdictions. These services can be obtained from private security companies that offer training courses to aspiring security professionals looking to work for their company, and they can also be obtained by enrolling in private classes that offer security guard training. The benefit to choosing the former route is that the company will often pay for your training. However, private security companies may require that you meet certain job requirements before offering you free security guard training.

The basic process to becoming a security guard in New York is fairly straight forward, though additional security training will be required if you seek to advance your career as a security professional.

Meet Basic Security Guard Licensing Requirements

While the requirements will vary from state to state and country to country, in general those looking to obtain security guard licensing will need to be at least 18 years of age, pass a criminal record check, and be otherwise eligible for employment in the jurisdiction.

Obtain Your Security Guard License And Undergo Security Guard Training

This may require security guard training in the form of live classroom training or online security guard training. While there are a few states that do not require licensing to do basic, entry level security guard work, most states and countries do require a license. You can contact your local job service center or contact a private security training company in your area. NYC security license courses may include coverage of the following skills and knowledge:

• Ethical code of conduct
• Basic security procedures
• Writing reports
• Basic first aid training
• Emergency response preparation
• State laws & American legal system
• Sensitivity training
• Communication training
• Use of force training
• Anti-terrorism preparation

Apply For Security Guard Jobs

You can apply for security guard jobs at a variety of private security companies as well as private businesses looking for independent security guards. While most businesses will contract out their security work to private security guard firms, some companies will have their own security department.

For those seeking a long term career in the security industry, applying for jobs in a private security firm offers the greatest potential for career advancement. You will have the potential to move up to management positions, while entry level security guards hired independently for private businesses usually do not have much opportunity for significant advancement.