Security guard certifications, also known as guard cards, are required for individuals working in the industry, whether as armed or unarmed security guards. Aspiring fire watch guards are also advised to secure their unarmed guard credentials to enhance their employment prospects. You can acquire these certifications through state-approved training courses that teach you how to safeguard people and property ethically and professionally. There are pros and cons to both armed and unarmed guard deployments. This article can serve as your guide in making your career decision, and help you choose the path that’s best for you.
Key Differences in Duties and Responsibilities
The obvious difference between armed and unarmed security guards is the use of firearms. Armed guards are trained and licensed in the use of state-approved weapons and typically work in riskier environments. Both types of guard work are in high demand, and businesses of all types regularly deploy both armed and unarmed guards. Nonetheless, unarmed guards can generally expect to work in corporate offices, retail, healthcare, and residential complexes, while armed guards are more often employed in government buildings and banks. Apart from firearms, armed guards can be trained in using pepper spray, tasers, and batons, but the allowable weapons depend on your state.
The roles and duties of armed and unarmed security professionals are mostly similar, and guards certified in firearms use often take jobs as unarmed security. They work for private companies to protect assets, prevent theft, and ensure the safety of their surroundings. Their presence alone can deter potential criminals from engaging in illegal activities. Here are the general responsibilities you can expect:
- Monitor and patrol a client’s property
- Control entrances and evict trespassers
- Test security systems and observe X-ray machines and metal detectors
- Communicate with stakeholders and investigate any suspicious activities
- Respond quickly to threats or emergencies and use de-escalation techniques
- Provide detailed reports on incidents and daily activities
- Perform first aid or CPR as needed
How to Obtain a Security Guard License
Security licensing and requirements vary by state. Unarmed guard certification typically focuses on developing communication and observation skills. You’ll also learn about security tactics in emergencies. Armed security guards require additional licensing and permits for the firearms and weapons they plan to use. Firearms training will culminate with a range test to verify the prospective guard’s accuracy with their chosen service weapon.
All states perform background checks as part of guard certification. Some jurisdictions include further assessments such as psychological evaluations. Although employers typically only require a high school diploma or equivalent, a degree in criminal justice or a related field can help secure higher-level roles. The most common pathway to getting a guard card is to connect with a state-certified training company. Trainers help secure your licensing through the proper state authorities, and can often connect you with your first employment opportunities.
Security Guard Training and Certification
Each state has its own curriculum. For example, in California, this is the course outline included in security guard training:
- Power to Arrest: A three-hour course designed to familiarize you with Business and Professions Code section 7583.7. It covers your responsibilities when making citizen’s arrests, how to work with a peace officer, your limitations, and appropriate emergency responses.
- Appropriate Use of Force: This five-hour course instructs you on the appropriate use of force, including the legal standards involved, what reasonable force means, de-escalation methods and what to do during active shooter situations.
You must pass both examinations with a score of 100% to proceed. Other mandatory courses in California may also discuss:
- Public relations with the community and customer: This subject includes topics on gender and racial discrimination, stereotypes, verbal skills and mental illness.
- Internal and external communications: This topic includes protocols on who to contact, which technology to use, and how to communicate with first responders and law enforcement officers.
- Observation and documentation: This subject includes topics on report writing, observation and patrol techniques, and how to ask appropriate questions.
- Liability and legal aspects: This topic includes information on the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) code and regulations, and criminal, civil and administrative liability.
First-aid and CPR training are highly recommended as elective courses. Additionally, eight hours of continuing training are required annually. You’ll get a Certificate of Completion for every course you complete. You must keep this certificate until your registration expires or gets cancelled.
Additional Licensing and Permits
To pursue a career as an armed security guard, you’ll need to undergo additional training and obtain the necessary permits, which vary by state. In California, you must have permits for the following:
- Firearms
- Tear gas
- Baton
Each weapon has its own training program, which you must complete from BSIS-approved facilities. These programs may test your judgment and self-restraint capabilities, and teach you how to use the appropriate equipment. Your permit will state the weapon you’re allowed to use. For instance, with a firearms permit, you can only use the listed firearm with a specific caliber. You can add more calibers with additional training.
You may need to renew your permit to keep using your weapon of choice. In California, a BSIS firearms permit expires after two years.
State Regulations and Compliance
You’ll learn the relevant security requirements and regulations through your training, as they vary from state to state. In California, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the Business and Professions Code (BPC) and the California Code of Regulations (CCR). The BPC includes information on:
- Private Investigator Act
- Proprietary Security Services Act
- Private Security Services Act
- Collateral Recovery Act
- Alarm Company Act
- Locksmiths
According to the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), only security officers who are deputized or hold special police status have arrest powers similar to those of a police officer. Otherwise, a security guard’s arrest power is the same as a private citizen’s. You cannot detain persons as a security guard. Otherwise, you and your employer may be susceptible to civil suits.
Legal Liability and Insurance Considerations
Liability insurance protects your employers against claims that result from damages to assets or injuries incurred on the job. Insurance usually covers legal costs and settlements. The types of insurance include the following:
- General liability insurance covers claims for property damage or bodily injury.
- Professional liability insurance covers claims against shortcomings in providing professional services.
- Assault and battery liability insurance protects the company against claims due to allegations of assault, which is a threat of harm, and battery, which is actual physical harm.
- Property damage coverage covers damages to others’ property, such as buildings, fences or cars. It doesn’t include coverage for injuries.
- Workers’ compensation insurance covers injuries you might suffer on the job, which provides compensation for lost wages and medical expenses.
How to Choose the Right Security Guard Career Path
The impact of security guards in businesses is significant as they ensure the safety of the people and properties they protect. This impact makes both armed and unarmed career paths fulfilling. Choose your career path based on your skills, how much risk you feel comfortable with, and your target salary.
The responsibilities generally depend on your employer. You may work as part of a team, while some jobs may require you to work independently. You can also choose to work as an internal employee or contractor, depending on the security company.
Companies may require at least a year of relevant experience for armed security guards, especially for high-stakes situations. Some employers may prefer those with experience in the police force or the army. Because the environments that require armed guards are riskier, armed guards also tend to have higher salaries than unarmed security guards.
Frequently Asked Questions
To help decide whether to become an armed or unarmed security guard, here are some answers to the most common questions about the industry:
Do Armed Security Guards Make More Than Unarmed Security Guards?
Due to the riskier environments they face, armed security guards typically earn more than unarmed guards. Armed guards also have more skills and additional training due to the weapons they carry on the job. Nationally, the average salary of an early-career armed security guard is approximately $20 per hour, while an unarmed guard can earn an average of $17 per hour.
Is It Worth Becoming an Armed Security Guard?
Becoming an armed security guard can be worthwhile if you possess the necessary skills to perform the job effectively. The higher pay may also be tempting, although this ultimately depends on whether you’re willing to risk the dangers of the job.
What Are the Disadvantages of Armed Guards?
There are some disadvantages to becoming an armed guard:
- More training is required, which means you may start working later in life than your unarmed counterparts.
- You’ll work in riskier environments, which means your health may be in danger at any time.
- You must train for every additional weapon you plan to use on the job. There is no one overall permit for weapons or firearms.
However, additional training can help you grow your skill set much faster than unarmed guards. The training should also help you become proficient in working within your assigned environment.
Carve Your Path With The Guard Alliance
The Guard Alliance is a private security guard company where both armed and unarmed security guards can thrive. We are licensed and provide services in over 50 cities. Our team members have over 30 years of experience, and hundreds of organizations count on our services. If you become part of the team, you can count on growing your skill set in practice and developing a career path that can help you stand out.
At this time, we do NOT offer training or assistance with guard certification. If you’ve already secured your guard card and are ready to jump-start your career, join our team of security and fire watch experts today!
