Armed security
guards work primarily in settings that involve protecting places and objects that might attract armed robbers. Private security is a growing field, but training and licensing requirements for armed guards vary widely.
Significance
Contract security in the United States is a billion-dollar industry. In the post-9/11 era, the demand for private security officers will grow, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Requirements
Requirements vary widely across states, but in general, security guards must be at least 18, pass a background check and complete training in emergency procedures, detention and other areas. Armed guards must undergo classroom and firing-range training to be licensed to carry a firearm.
State Examples
New York requires 47 hours of firearms training (seven classroom and 40 firing range hours) for licensing as an armed guard. In contrast, Colorado does not license security guards. The state does, however, require armed security personnel to carry a firearms permit and register with local law enforcement.
Exceptions
In some states, such as Florida, a law enforcement officer's license can substitute for mandated firearms training.
TSA Program
Since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA), a part of the Department of Homeland Security, instituted a program for armed security guards that would provide security on flights.
TSA Requirements
Candidates for the armed security officer (ASO) program must have a law enforcement background. In addition, ASO program applicants must have U.S. citizenship, be at least 21, have law enforcement officer certification, pass a criminal background check and complete written and firearms tests.
Warning
According to National Association of Security Companies (NASCO), an industry group, many states lack sufficient training, screening and licensing requirements for security officers. It reported that only 18 states regulate in-house security officers.
