Training for security guards was mandated by the Security Guard Act of 1992. The Act requires that all security guards complete three training courses.

Armed guards are required to complete two additional training courses.

All courses must be conducted at approved training schools, by certified instructors.

The first required course is an 8 Hour Pre-Assignment Training Course. This is a general introductory course. Upon successful completion of this course the guard is issued a training certificate. This certificate must accompany the security guard’s registration application when submitted to the Department of State. The guard has 90 days to complete the 16 Hour On the Job Training Course.

The second required course is the 16 Hour On-the-Job Training Course (OJT). This training program should be relevant to the guard’s duties, requirements of the work site, and the needs of the employer.

This course must be completed by a Certified Security School at an approved classroom setting.  Upon successful completion of this course, the guard is issued a training certificate.

The third required training program is the 8 Hour Annual In-service course. This training must be completed each calendar year following completion of the 16 Hour OJT Course. This program is designed to meet current training needs and refresh or update guards in changes in the security field. The guard must complete this course as a prerequisite for renewal of his or her guard registration.