Security Guard Requirements - How to become a Security Guard

Security guard duties include keeping an eye on any product, building, society, or premises and property. Security guard requirements generally include a high-school diploma, a criminal background check, a security license (security guard card), and physical fitness. The requirements differ widely from state to state, and country to country. However, they are much more relaxed than the requirements for becoming a full-fledged law enforcement officer.

Security Guard Duties

A security guard is responsible for keeping a watch on the premises or property which he has been given a charge upon. He may do this by keeping a direct watch or through hidden cameras. He has to ensure that no malpractices or suspicious activity is being carried out in the premises which would damage and be harmful to the property. His job is to guard the property against thieves and robbers. If he can't control the situation by himself, he has to inform the police and take assistance from them.

How to Become a Security Guard?

Educational Requirements
In some states of the USA, no minimum educational qualification is required for one to join this profession, but it is recommended to possess a 2-year degree or certificate in a criminal justice program. Having a related degree really helps in a security job placement. Some states may require a high-school diploma or an equivalent qualification. However, some employers may hire security guards without possessing a diploma or any such qualification. For becoming a security guard a person's age needs to be more than 18 years.

Training and Licensing
To be eligible for obtaining a security guard registration card from the state department, you need to successfully complete an eight-hour pre-assignment course. You may also have to take other related courses that include training on property rights, detention of suspects, and other criminal justice factors. The duration of such courses and trainings may be of a few weeks. Obtaining a permit may not be mandatory in some states, but it certainly adds some credibility to the security guard's authority.

If you need to become an armed guard, a pistol license is required along with a completion of a particular firearms training assignment. This assignment normally consists of handling and safety of weapons. Armed security guards usually work in a highly technical environment or restricted areas and government offices. The pay that armed guards get is generally higher as compared to the unarmed ones. If the guard is selected to work in a high-risk technical area such as a government laboratory or a confidential premise, he may have to undergo training on various surveillance techniques, arms training, decision making, etc., which are crucial factors in such highly sensitive areas.

The salary of security guards range from $40,000 to even $80,000 per annum, depending upon their level of expertise, previous experience, and any additional training that they've undertaken. They may be employed by casinos, museums, private offices, banks and financial institutions, companies, and many other places which are prone to cheating and robberies, and need security.

The most important prerequisite among all security guard requirements is the ability to respond and take immediate decisions in the time of crisis. If you are thinking of joining the police force, getting some experience by working as a security guard may be a good stepping stone.