Armed Security Guard

In order to become an Armed Security Guard in the New York State, you must first hold a valid a pistol permit.  Without a pistol permit, you are unable to fire a handgun in New York State unless you obtain a New York State and/or New York City Pistol Permit.  After you have obtained a pistol permit you must complete a 47 Hour Firearms Training Course.

47 Hour Firearms Training Course: Security Guards who carry firearms are required to complete this course before they can be licensed as an armed security guard.  This course includes seven hours of classroom instruction of the Use of Force (NYS Penal Law Art.35) followed by a written examination, and 40 hours on the firing range followed by weapons qualification.  Upon successful completion of this course the guard is issued a training certificate that must be submitted to the New York State, Department of State along with the registration application.

8 Hour Annual Firearms Training Course:  Security Guards must complete this course each year.  This course includes three hours of classroom refresher on the Use of Force followed by a written examination, and five hours of weapons qualification which includes a proficiency examination.

• If your armed security guard license is close to the expiration date and you had not received the renewal form from the state, please contact the New York State Department of State and request a renewal letter.  Please note that when you have a change of address, you need to notify the state to inform them of your new address.

• If your application to become an armed security guard is denied, you can appeal the decision by sending a request for a Formal Administrative Hearing.