Florida Security Guard Regulations

Florida security guards must complete training requirements to earn a license.security guard with gun image by jedphoto from Fotolia.com

Security guards protect people and property from criminal acts by monitoring for suspicious activity and patrolling areas. The duties of security guards depend on the employers; some may remain in one location, and others patrol on foot or in vehicles. The education and training regulations for security guards vary by state, and Florida requires that applicants complete security and firearms training. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of 2009, the average salary for a security guard is $26,000 per year.

Education and Background

To enter a security guard training program in Florida, an applicant must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or GED certificate. Applicants are also subject to background and drug tests and cannot have a criminal history.

To earn a Class D security license, individuals need to pass a two-part training program. Part One is a 24-hour course that trains prospective security guards in basic first aid, legal issues, crime and accident prevention, emergency procedures and fire suppression. The 24-hour course is broken down into two 12-hour days of instruction.

Applicants then must complete the 16-hour second part of the training program within six months. In addition to receiving advanced security guard training, individuals receive the latest terrorism awareness training.

To become an armed security guard, individuals need to earn a Class G license. Prospective armed guards must complete 28 hours of training, which combines academic coursework with range instruction. The academic coursework covers safety and mechanics, marksmanship, use of force and civil liability. Armed security guards who want to maintain their licensure must complete eight hours of continuing education every year.