Text Box: Security officer requirements

Text Box: HOW TO BECOME A LICENSED SECURITY OFFICER   According to Florida Law, all licensed security officers must complete 40 hours of training under the instruction of a state-licensed instructor.  At least 24 hours of this training must be completed before a Class “D” license can be issued.  The remaining 16 hours of training must be completed within 180 days (6 months) of the time the license is issued.  All 40 hours must be complete before a Class “D” license can be renewed.  To facilitate the needs of employers to get personnel ready for licensure in a timely manner, the Class “D” Course is broken into two parts.  Part A is a 24 hour (2 day) class.  Part B is a 16 hours (2 day) class.  The first class (24 hours) must be completed before students are eligible for Class “D” licensing.  The licensed officer must then return with 180 days to complete the remaining 16 hours of training.   The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Licensing, licenses and regulates the private security industry in accordance with Chapter 493, Florida Statutes.  Security offices and security agencies serve in positions of trust.  Untrained and unlicensed persons or businesses, or persons not of good moral character are a threat to the public safety and welfare.  The private security industry is regulated to insure the interests of the public are adequately served and protected.  This information has been made available to inform Florida citizens about licensing requirements.