The process of becoming an unarmed security officer in Florida begins with obtaining the Class D license. This state-issued credential serves as the official authorization required to perform non-armed private security duties throughout the state. Understanding the specific requirements and administrative steps is the foundation for starting a career in this field. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the eligibility, training, application, and renewal process for this license.
Understanding the Class D Security License
The Class D license is the primary certification allowing an individual to work as an unarmed security guard in Florida. This certification authorizes the holder to perform a wide range of security services, such as patrolling, access control, and incident reporting. These roles include positions in retail, residential communities, corporate settings, and hospitals.
This license is issued and regulated by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). The Class D license strictly limits the holder to unarmed duties. Performing security work while carrying a firearm requires a separate certification, known as a Class G license, which involves additional training and state approval.
Minimum Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet several prerequisites before proceeding with training and the formal application. State law requires all candidates to be at least 18 years old to perform unarmed security work. Applicants must also demonstrate legal eligibility to work in the United States, meaning they must be a U.S. citizen, a permanent resident, or an authorized alien.
A thorough background check is required to assess the applicant’s criminal history. This screening looks for statutory disqualifiers, as the state requires security personnel to have a clean legal history. Certain felony convictions or disqualifying misdemeanors will prevent the issuance of a license. Applicants must also possess a valid government-issued photo identification, such as a Florida driver’s license.
Mandatory Training Requirements
Florida mandates the completion of a 40-hour security training course before an individual can apply for the license. This training must be conducted by a licensed security school or facility approved by the FDACS. The course content prepares prospective guards with the skills and knowledge required for the profession.
The curriculum covers topics including the legal authority of a security guard, ethical responsibilities, and Florida state laws. Instruction also includes practical skills, such as patrol techniques, observation skills, and effective report writing. Emergency procedures are a component of the training, covering responses to medical situations, fires, and other crisis scenarios. Applicants must successfully pass a final assessment, typically a 170-question exam, to receive the required certificate of completion.
The Official Application and Vetting Process
After completing the 40-hour training course, applicants submit the application form to the FDACS. Submission can be done online, in person at a regional office, or by mail. Applicants must include their certificate of completion from the training course with the official application.
A non-refundable application fee is required, totaling approximately $97.75, excluding training costs. This amount covers the application fee and the necessary charges for the background screening. Applicants must also submit a current, passport-style photograph with the application.
Electronic fingerprinting is required and must be completed through a state-approved Livescan provider. The fingerprint data is submitted directly to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for the criminal background check. Processing time for the Class D license application typically takes between 10 and 30 days. FDACS may issue a temporary permit that allows the applicant to begin working while waiting for the official license card.
Maintaining and Renewing the License
The Class D Security Officer License is valid for two years from its date of issuance. To maintain authorization to work, the license must be renewed before its expiration date. It is recommended to initiate the renewal process up to 90 days before the expiration to avoid any lapse in eligibility.
The renewal process involves submitting an application through the FDACS website or by mail and paying the renewal fee, which is currently $45. The state also charges an additional fee for fingerprint retention during the renewal. Unlike the Class G license, the Class D license does not have mandatory annual continuing education requirements. If a license is allowed to expire, there is a limited grace period for renewal with a late fee, but licenses expired for more than three months require a more extensive reapplication process.