Working as a security guard is a highly rewarding and fulfilling job. There isn't a day in their lives when they do not encounter something exciting. Whether you are working in security, cleaning, healthcare, or the food industry there is always a need for a security guard. They are making people feel safe and secure on the premises, and that is a pretty big thing.

And that is not all, being a security guard is good for anyone’s personal growth as well. Security guards are equipped with enough skills, experience, and training that will surely help them in life. They will have excellent problem-solving skills, can easily handle any situation, and manage risky situations. 

The lives of a security guard sure can look all fine and dandy, but it is filled with challenges as well. They are constantly under threat and have to face many situations that might give many people creeps. You need to do proper research before choosing a career path in the security industry. You need to have the sheer determination and willpower to make a career out of it. 

There are certain requirements you need to fulfill before you are called a security guard. In Canada and USA, there are rigorous courses and training an individual should undergo to exercise their right to become a security guard. If you are thinking of making a career in the same path, we bring you some important requirements. 

Requirements To Become A Security Guard

If you are someone who is residing in Canada or USA then these requirements are going to be useful for you.

Step 1 - Meet The Basic Requirements

Age-

You must be 18 years or older

Criminal Record-

You must have a clean criminal record and no cases shall be registered against you. These records might be checked by local state police or the local security guard licensing agency. 

Citizenship

You must be a legal citizen of the country. Or you must be legally allowed to work in the country. 

Language

You must be able to speak and write American English. 

State Government Approved Security License Course

To obtain a security license in the United States or Canada, you must successfully finish an authorized security license course recognized by the respective state. You will need to provide evidence of completing the course, which can include online security license courses. It is advisable to reach out to the relevant state government organization responsible for security licensing to obtain a catalog of approved courses.

Step 2 - Complete The Training 

In Canada, security guards are required to at least complete the basic training to acquire a security license. The number of hours required may vary depending on different states. But each and every guard must complete “Basic Security Training (BST)”

The security guard needs to complete a 40-hour security license training program with basic CPR and first aid certification. 

Step 3 - Obtain A Security Guard License  

Once you have completed the required training, you need to apply for a security guard license, and for that too an individual needs to meet some requirements. 

What Is A Security License?

A security guard license allows you to work in a job where your main task is protecting a property or a person. This includes working as a-

1. Security Guard
2. Bodyguard
3. Bouncer
4. Concierge

A valid security license is required to be eligible for working as a security guard. So make sure that you have a valid license before applying for any security guard position in Canada or USA. After this process is done, you need to pass a security guard test. The price of the test is around $75.15 after the inclusion of taxes. 

Step 4 - Get Registered And Pass The Test

After you have acquired the necessary training with an eligible license you need to get registered and give the mandatory tests. Keep in mind there are some basic guidelines that one must follow while applying for the registration. 

If you have prepared nicely then passing the test must be simple enough. Just follow basic guidelines then you are good to go. 

Step 5 - Find A Job 

Now that you have a license and proper training, it’s time to put all of that hard work to the test. Your real test begins when you have to face the real world and apply for the job. Getting a physical copy of your license may take a while, so make sure you always carry the digital copy with you. 

While applying for security guard positions, make sure you highlight all of the necessary points that are there in your license and if you have any relevant experience. 

Step 6 - Maintain Your License 

Having a license is very important if you want to continue your career in the security industry. Make sure that you periodically check and update your license if there is any need. How often you might need to update it depends upon the state you are working in. There might be a chance that you need to pay a minimal renewal fee and undergo ongoing training as well. 

Do remember to keep updated with the latest training requirements and you have maintained your license so that you can easily find success in the field. 

How To Keep Updated With Your Security License  

If you own a security-providing service then you must be aware of the significance of holding a security license. You need to worry about the license of your security guard expiring, and you won’t want to miss out on any of the updation dates. Hence using security guard software will be beneficial as it will give up repeated reminders on when the license is expiring. These reminders will help you keep track of the licenses of your security guards. 

There are other features as well, such as scheduling, incident report sending, GPS tracking, geofencing, and timesheets that you might find helpful. These management tools will be helpful in security guard tracking and managing the workforce altogether.