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Security Guard Training

Introduction

New York State law requires registration and training of security guards in the state. The DCJS Office of Public Safety provides administrative oversight for mandated security training and approves security guard training schools. The New York State Department of State Division of Licensing Services has oversight responsibility for the registration of all security guards.

Questions about registration and licensing should be directed to the Division of Licensing Services via e-mail or calling (518) 474-7569. Or, visit www.dos.ny.gov/licensing for more information.

Questions about training should be directed to dcjsopssecurityguard@dcjs.ny.gov or (518) 457-2667.

Training Requirements

The following courses are the only ones required to become a security guard in New York State.

All security guards are required to complete an 8 Hour Pre-Assignment Training Course prior to applying to the Department of State for a Security Guard Registration Card. That course must be followed by a 16-Hour On-the-Job Training Course for Security Guards within 90 days of initial employment as a security guard. Guards also must complete an 8-Hour Annual In-service Training Course for Security Guards every year.

Armed guard applicants must have a valid New York State pistol license pursuant to Penal Law 400.00 and must complete a 47-Hour Firearms Training Course for Security Guards prior to applying for a Special Armed Guard Registration Card. Starting one year from the date of completion of the 47-hour firearms training course, holders of a Special Armed Guard Registration Card also must annually complete an 8-Hour Annual In-service Training Course for Armed Security Guards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Security Guard Schools
A list of schools approved to do business in New York State. This list also includes schools that have had their approval revoked by DCJS; these schools are not permitted to offer training.

Mandated Training Courses
Section 89-n of the General Business Law of New York State provides for various exemptions and/or waivers of training based on previous Municipal Police Training Council approved law enforcement training.

Publications and Forms

 

Training Matrix

1. Locate the title and the status that identifies your experience;
2. Click on the link below the appropriate training column to be directed to the appropriate list of approved security guard training schools, waiver form or contact information.

¹Separation from service is defined as retirement or resignation from the position.

*Applicants for Special Armed Guard Registration cards who have completed initial training in firearms and deadly physical force more than 12 months prior to being employed as a security guard must complete the 8 Hour Annual In-service Training Course for Armed Security Guards or a Police Annual Firearm Qualification, or a Peace Officer Annual Firearm Qualification prior to applying for a Special Armed Guard Registration Card.

For more information about private security training, please select from the Local Menu options.