Are you contemplating a career as a security guard or security officer? If you have no prior experience in this field, but you would like to delve further into the qualifications and duties, there is a lot you should learn and become familiar with. You might wish to become an armed security officer or an unarmed guard. Either way, you will need to acquire a license and prepare for special training and skills. If you want to learn more, here are 4 important aspects to consider when aspiring to become a security guard:

1. Familiarize Yourself With Your State's Specific Requirements

One of the first aspects you will need to consider is the requirements for becoming a security guard. Every state has specific requirements, so you will need to familiarize yourself with your state's regulations and laws. For instance, age requirements may differ among various states.

Many states require that the applicant be at least 18 years of age to become an unarmed security guard, while armed officers may need to be 21 years of age or older. Other requirements must be met as well. This typically includes no convictions upon completing a criminal background check. The background check will typically require a signature of approval. You may also be required to submit your fingerprints for analysis.

2. Consider Licensing Requirements

As a general rule, all security guards, either armed or unarmed, must become licensed to practice in their state. You should familiarize yourself with the process so you will be well prepared when the time comes. In general, obtaining a license will require a fee, which may vary from state to state.

Before you can receive your security guard license you will need special training. This training and learning process is typically completed at some type of educational center for vocational training. Your state will have implemented a particular amount of hours you must complete in your training process. Upon receiving your license you will be informed of when it will need to be renewed.

If you are planning on becoming an armed security officer, there is another aspect to consider. Plan on devoting more time to your training. Armed security guards must put in more hours of specialized training. Your training will most likely be more involved and somewhat more interwoven and complicated. For instance, you may need to complete training courses on the use of firearms.

3. Understand the Responsibilities of a Security Guard

As a professionally licensed security guard, you may be assigned to various client sites. Your main job focus is to protect those clients and help to ensure their personal safety. In addition, it will be your responsibility to safeguard the client's properties and those who are employed by the client or company in which you will be assigned to.

You will patrol and monitor certain areas on the client's property. You will be responsible for reporting suspicious activities or individuals that may potentially pose a threat to the public or to property. You will need to be vigilant and alert at all times while on the job. While on duty, you will wear a special uniform that is typically provided for by the company in which you are employed with.

4. Consider Whether You Have the Physical Stamina to Do the Work

Being a security guard or officer will require a certain amount of physical stamina. You will be on your feet most of the time during your assigned shift. Also, there is a considerable amount of walking you will do, much of which depends upon the areas in which you are assigned to. In some instances, you may be required to lift fairly heavy objects. Are you in good physical shape? This is something you'll want to seriously consider, because some companies may require a fitness evaluation before hiring.

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