New York Armed Security Guard Training
Working as an armed security guard involves a lot of responsibility and risk. Because of the nature of the work, New York requires specific training before anyone can legally work armed security.
Requirement of Training
The 1992 Security Guard Act established training requirements in New York State. This act made it mandatory for armed security guards to be trained and certified by the state.
Basic Training
An eight-hour training course is required before applying for a registration card with the Department of State. Additionally, after initial employment, new guards must complete a 16-hour training course and a 47-hour firearms course, as well as complete an eight-hour re-certification annually.
Considerations and Exemptions
State law allows for exemptions to the training requirements based on other law enforcement and peace officer training. Many of the requirements for police officers overlap with those of armed security guards. For this reason active New York police officers are exempt from the initial training and licensing requirements and former police are not required to take the pre-assignment training course before applying for a license.
