Important Certifications & Permits for Security Guards
The most popular certifications of 2022 are obtaining the actual Guard Card to be eligible for security guard services employment, and a Firearms Permit that is essential for our armed guard services. Another certification that is not required, and may not be required by employers but would be extremely beneficial to any security guard as they are looked at as public safety, would be the First Aid and CPR certification. Beyond that, there are many different important certifications that security guards invest in because it pushes them toward better opportunities within the security guard industry.
Three essential certifications that are important for security guards to obtain include:
Baton Certification
The first certification we will be discussing is the Baton certification, which is a great addition to both armed and unarmed guard training and services. Before one can lawfully carry a baton on duty, they need to have a valid ID, already have completed their California Guard Card Training (it can be different in some states, so one must research the requirements in their state before carrying), and they need a valid baton permit. There are online and in-person facilities that offer training and courses, and some even offer the course itself and the permit as a “combo” class if one still needs both.
Batons have been a go-to tool for law enforcement and security guards in lieu of more serious weapons, and students will learn the moral, ethical, legal, and safe deployment of a police-style baton. All students will also learn how to use a straight baton and a collapsible baton. This course is around 7-10 hours (varies per site, and the degree of learning courses it includes). The cost for a baton permit is around 60$, but the cost to learn how to use a baton varies. Taser and stun gun training is not a certification that is required, but many employers require a certification on how to use it due to accidents happening with inexperienced users.
Handcuff Certification
The second certification we will cover today will be the handcuff certification which is approximately 2 hours to complete. Students completing the course will receive a 4-hour handcuffing theory certificate. Although not required by the State of CA, many employers will require their security guards to complete the course. The course teaches how to use, how to carry, and how to maintain handcuffs. The course also includes how to handcuff a suspect in the group, facing the wall, on their knees, etc., and is completely taught online.
Pepper Spray Permit
The third certification we will be covering is the pepper spray permit, which is also an online course. By the State of California, any guard who carries a chemical agent (Mace, Pepper Spray, etc.) must have completed a course and trained within a state-licensed training facility. Make sure the course satisfies the state requirement for training in the use of pepper spray. It can be taken entirely online, and students will also be able to download a personalized card that certifies completion of the course.
**Important Note For All Guards**
Having a BSIS Firearms permit for exposed carry is very different than having a concealed carry permit. As a security guard, one needs to have taken an extra course, obtained a permit, and researched their state’s requirements for carrying.
Certified & Verified Guards at The Guard Alliance
At The Guard Alliance, we ensure all our guards are certified and thoroughly verified with a simple questionnaire on our careers page, guaranteeing top-notch security services for our clients. Rest assured, our team meets the highest standards of professionalism and expertise. If you’re interested in working with us, fill out our application online.
