The credential needed to work legally as a security officer in Utah is officially known as the Private Security Officer Registration or License. This designation is issued by the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL), which regulates the private security industry throughout the state. Obtaining this license is a legal requirement before an individual can begin employment, ensuring all personnel meet standardized professional and ethical requirements. The process involves meeting baseline prerequisites, completing mandatory training, submitting to thorough background checks, and formal application submission.
Basic Eligibility Requirements in Utah
Prospective security officers must satisfy specific prerequisites before beginning the formal licensing process. An applicant must be at least 18 years old to apply for the unarmed private security officer license. Applicants are also required to demonstrate good moral character, which the state assesses through a review of their personal history and background.
The state maintains strict standards regarding an applicant’s criminal record, as certain convictions can lead to automatic disqualification. Individuals who have been convicted of a felony are generally ineligible for licensure. Convictions for serious misdemeanors, particularly those involving moral turpitude such as theft, fraud, or offenses against a person, will prevent an applicant from obtaining a license.
Mandatory Training and Certification
All applicants for an unarmed private security officer license must successfully complete a state-mandated training curriculum. Utah law requires a minimum of eight hours of basic pre-assignment training, which must be administered by a certified instructor or agency approved by DOPL.
The curriculum covers several topics, including the security officer’s legal authority, appropriate use of force, and proper detention procedures. Trainees also receive instruction on effective report writing, patrol techniques, and maintaining professional community relations. Successful completion of the course culminates in a certificate required for the official license application.
The Official Application Procedure
Submitting a completed application to the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) is the formal step to acquire the security officer license. Applicants typically utilize an online portal for the most efficient submission process, though physical mail-in options may also be available. The application must be accompanied by all required supporting documents.
Required documentation includes a certificate of completion from the DOPL-approved basic training course and a form of valid photo identification, such as a state-issued driver’s license.
The application submission requires payment of the state’s official licensing fee, currently around $60, plus any associated processing costs for the background check and fingerprinting. Incomplete applications or failure to include the necessary fees will result in the application being returned.
The Background Check and Fingerprinting Process
A mandatory criminal history check is required for all security officer applicants. This review requires the submission of fingerprints, allowing authorities to conduct both state and federal background checks. Applicants must have their fingerprints processed electronically, often through a Live Scan service, or by submitting traditional fingerprint cards processed by the Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI).
The fingerprint submission facilitates a comprehensive check against criminal databases maintained by BCI and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The license is granted only after the background check confirms the applicant meets the strict character standards set by DOPL.
Specific Requirements for Armed Security Officers
A standard unarmed security officer license is insufficient for individuals who wish to carry a firearm while on duty. Obtaining the armed security officer endorsement requires additional training and licensing standards beyond the basic requirements. Applicants must complete a specialized firearms training course that typically consists of at least 12 hours of instruction.
This specialized training focuses on firearms proficiency, legal parameters for the use of deadly force, and safety protocols. An armed officer must also obtain an additional permit or endorsement to be authorized to carry a weapon, depending on their employment circumstances. The state requires armed officers to only carry the specific firearm used during the approved basic firearms training program.
Maintaining and Renewing Your Guard Card
The Private Security Officer license must be renewed regularly to remain valid for employment. In Utah, the renewal cycle typically occurs every two years, usually expiring on a set date in even-numbered years. Licensed officers must ensure their contact information, including any change of address or employment status, is updated with DOPL to receive renewal notices.
To qualify for renewal, unarmed officers must complete a minimum of 32 hours of continuing education during the two-year licensing period. This continuing education is split between core security topics and professional development subjects. Timely payment of the required renewal fee, currently around $42, is also necessary to keep the license active.