Security Guard

 

In order to become a security guard in New York State you must complete two training courses and submit an application to the New York State, Department of State.  The first course that is required in the 8 Hour Pre-Assignment Training Course.  The second course is the 16 Hour On-the-Job Training Course.  After you have obtained your security guard license, it is required to take an annual training course each year.  Your security guard license is valid for two years then must be renewed with the New York State, Department of State.

 

8 Hour Pre-Assignment Training Course:  This is a general introductory course.  Guards are issued a certificate upon successful completion, which a copy of such must accompany the security guards application when submitted to the New York State, Department of State.  Once the application is submitted, the guard has 90 days to complete the second training course, 16 Hour On-the Job Training Course.

 

16 Hour On-the-Job Training Course:  This training program should be relevant to the guard’s duties, requirements of the work site, and the needs of the employer.  This course is commonly given by schools even though it was designed for employers to provide on-the-job training. This course may be conducted in an approved classroom setting or at an approved work site, which is conductive to learning.  New York State, Department of State requires that this course be completed within 90 days of employment as a security guard.

 

8 Hour Annual In-Service Training Course:  This training course must be completed every year after you have obtained a security guard license.  This program is designed to meet current training needs and refresh or update guards in changes in the security field.  (This course should be done approximately one year from the date you took your 8 Hour Pre-Assignment Training Course.  Example: If your course date was 9/01/2018, you must complete your 8 Hour Annual In-Service Training Course by 9/01/2019.)

 

Security Guard License Renewal:  The security guard license needs to be renewed every two years for a fee of $25.00, which is payable to New York State, Department of State.  In order for your security guard license to renew, you must complete an 8 Hour Annual In-Service Training Course EACH year.  If you skipped a year, you are required to complete two courses.

 

• If your 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 at 518-474-7569 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 a security guard is denied, you can appeal the decision by sending a request for a Formal Administrative Hearing.