How to Become a Security Guard in Delaware

How to Become a Security Guard in Delaware

Security guards in Delaware have successful careers.

If you want to know how you can become one, you should read below.

Security Guard Description and Requirements

In Delaware, the job involves patrolling the property of the person who hired you and not allowing intruders.

Some of the daily job duties you will have to perform are:

  • Working together with law enforcement to report any suspicious incidents
  • Ensure that the laws are respected on your employer’s property
  • Keep an eye on TV cameras and alarms
  • Patrol a designated area
  • Write reports about what you found during your checkups
  • Interview witnesses in the case of criminal activity

A security guard should also have some skills, which include:

  • Solid communication skills
  • Ability to decide fast
  • Empathy skills with the customers
  • Know how to use a gun if needed
  • Knowledge of public safety
  • Know the laws and regulations in Delaware
  • Work well alone but also in a team

Required Training for Security Guards in Delaware

This state requires security guards to be licensed.

The certifications are managed by the Delaware Department of Safety and Homeland Security.

The first requirement for licensing is to attend a training program.

A training program will teach you everything you need to know and help you develop the needed skills.

Those studying to become security guards take both theory and practice classes.

These classes commonly include the following topics:

  • Employer policies/ orientation
  • Post orders
  • Officer safety
  • Evacuation procedures
  • Access control
  • Trespassing
  • Advanced arrests, search and seizure
  • Laws and regulations
  • First aid and CPR
  • Workplace violence
  • Handling difficult people
  • Crowd control
  • Preserving incidence scenes
  • Driver safety
  • Chemical agents
  • Courtroom demeanor
  • Supervision
  • Radio procedures
  • Parking
  • School security guard training
  • Executive protection
  • Firearms training
  • Baton training
  • Fire safety
  • Air taser or stun gun
  • Public relations
  • Observation and documentation
  • Communication
  • Legal aspects and liability

Most of the training programs are offered through schools.

The firearm training needs to be refreshed periodically.

You can also opt for a higher degree, such as a bachelor’s degree or associate’s degree.

These degrees typically take longer, but also offer better career opportunities.

How to Apply for a Security Guard Certification

You will have to fulfill some requirements before you get your security guard license in Delaware.

These include:

  • An age of at least 18
  • Passing a drug test, which is required by most employers
  • A background check
  • Your driving experience
  • A high-school diploma or equivalent
  • EMT certification
  • 16-hour course approved by the board
  • Training diploma signed by your supervisor

In order to get your license, you will also have to pass an exam.

The minimum score you need to pass is 75%.

The subjects covered in the licensing exam include:

  • Laws and regulations
  • Use of force (including verbal force)
  • Ethics
  • Emergency services/ first response
  • Communication/ report writing
  • Asset protection/ safety/ fire
  • National Terrorism Advisory System

You can register to take the exam online.

You will also have to pay a $49 fee before taking the exam.

You will need to send in your fingerprints, which are only valid for a month.

After you gather all the paperwork, you have to send it to the board along with a fee of $89.

If you decide to apply for an armed position, you will need to get a commissioned security guard license.

This license has some requirements, which include:

  • Be at least 21 years old
  • A 40-hour program under someone’s supervision
  • Training in chemical spray, handcuffs, and nightstick
  • Training in the firearm which you will be using

Other Security Guard Licenses in Delaware

There are a few other licenses you can get in this state.

Security Guard Business License

For this license, you have to be at least 25 years old.

You can easily get it if you have a higher degree or some experience in law enforcement.

If you don’t meet these criteria, you will need experience of 4 years in the field or 5 years working in investigations.

Armored Car Guard License

For this permit, you need experience of 4 years as a manager for an armored car company.

If you want to run your own business, you have to submit insurance and surety bonds.

Salaries for Security Guards in Delaware

In this state, security guards earn a good wage.

This field also provides work stability and gives you the chance to develop a career.

Security guards with higher education generally earn more.

You have better chances to find a well-paying job in Delaware’s more populated regions.

Annual Salary Range:
$34K
$42K
$54K
10%
50%
90%
Annual Salary by Location:
Location Avg. Annual Salary
Wilmington $43,348
Dover $43,277
Newark $43,315
Bear $43,299
Middletown $43,200
Hockessin $43,348
Smyrna $43,230
Milford $43,380
Claymont $43,348
Seaford $42,490

Regional Salary in Delaware

Region Employed Avg. Annual Salary Avg. Hourly Pay Top 10% Annual Salary Bottom 10% Annual Salary
Dover, DE230$36,490$17.54$47,720$29,600
* Salary information based on the May 2023 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Security Guards, OCC Code 33-9032, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

Additional Info About Security Guards in Delaware

If you need more industry resources, you can find them on the Delaware Department of Safety and Homeland Security. Licensure website.

Another organization that might be helpful is The Delaware Chapter of ASIS International.

USA Security Guard License by State


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