How to Become a Security Guard in Connecticut

The security service industry is regulated in the State of Connecticut, this means that individuals need a security guard certification ID.

If you’re interested in this occupation, this guide is for you!

We’ll talk about the requirements you need to meet, the documents you need, as well as the salary you can expect to have!

Security Guard Job Description and Requirements

Security agents have a pretty complex job, though many see it as rather easy.

Their duties include:

• Patrolling the perimeter
• Observing the security cameras on screens
• Collaborating with law enforcement officers
• Obeying the rules set by their employer and client
• Obeying the law
• Writing reports about the events that took place during the worked shift

The first requirement you must meet is age:

• 18 years old to become a security guard
• 21 years old if you want to be an armed security guard

Once this requirement is met, candidates have to:

• Undergo appropriate training
• Register
• Pass a background check
• Become certified
• Pay some fees

The fees you have to pay are for the registration and background check.

These fees are:

• Background check – 2 fees: $50 and $14.75
• Certification – $100

The fees are higher if you want to work for the private security service.

You should know that the private security service also has higher standards to meet.

Security Guard Training, Certification, and Registration

To become certified, you’ll need to first receive training from a provider approved by the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection.

This training lasts for 8 hours and must cover the following topics:

• First aid
• Public safety
• Use of force
• Basic criminal justice
• Laws and regulations related to search and seizure

Individuals who were in the National Guard or armed services may waive their 8 hours of training.

Those who are veterans from the armed forces need to present documentation that is not older than 2 years if they want their training waived.

Once the training is completed, you’ll have to pass a criminal background check.

Felonies, sexual offenses, as well as some other offenses, will disqualify you from receiving your security guard certification.

Security Guard Application Process

To apply for the certification you’ll need to gather a few documents.

These include:

• 2 sets of fingerprints
• Application form signed by your instructor
• The fees mentioned earlier
• A copy of your driver’s license
• Naturalization papers, if you’re not born in the USA

The application folder needs to be sent to the Special Licensing and Firearms Unit.

Individuals need to register before getting employed.

They can do so on the website of the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection.

Firearms Endorsement Requirements

Security guards have the option to carry firearms.

For this, they need to complete an additional training course, and then to apply.

The course needs the approval of the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection.

If you’re interested in such a class the Department has a list of instructors you can contact.

You’ll receive the updated list when you make a request.

In this class you’ll learn:

• Firearm safety
• Range training

Upon completing this class you’re expected to pass a range test.

Remember that you’ll need to complete a refresher course every year if you want to keep your armed guard permit.

Private Security Service License Requirements and Application Process

Individuals have the option to work for the private security service as well.

For this, they’ll first need to be at least 25 years old in Connecticut.

Then, they’ll need to apply for a private security service license.

To be accepted, you’ll also need:

• Some previous experience in the field
• Insurance
• A high school diploma or GED
• 4 reference letters
• A credit bureau report
• The driving record for the past 3 years
• A copy of your current driver’s license
• Form DD-214 or NGB-22 if you were discharged from the army
• A letter from the psychiatrist or psychologist if you seek psychiatric care
• 2 passport-style photos
• Passing the background check
• To notarize the application form

As an experience, one of the following is acceptable:

• 5 years of security experience as a supervisor
• 10 years of experience as a police officer

Candidates for this license cannot be currently working as police officers.

The licensing agency might accept pertinent education as a substitution of 1 year of experience.

The insurance you’ll need is:

• $300,000 for the liability insurance policy
• $10,000 for the performance surety bond

The reference letters need to be the original ones, and not copies.

The discharge forms need to mention why were you discharged.

There are some misdemeanor convictions that will disqualify you from receiving your license.

You might be called for an oral interview as well.

If you’re accepted, you’ll need to pay the fee of $1,450 for the initial license.

This must be renewed every 2 years and the associated fee is $625.

Salary Information

As expected, your salary as a security guard will be lower when you start working.

You’ll also have different earnings based on your actual position, employer, and location.

Regional Salary in Connecticut

Additional Information

The Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection has more information related to the licenses.

Make sure to check their website for updates related to regulations.

Security Guard License by State