Delaware Globe

Delaware Security Guard License Information (Guard Card)

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Information Details
State Agency Delaware Professional Licensing Section
Website https://dsp.delaware.gov/professional-licensing/
Term of License 2-years.
Pre-Assignment Training Required? Yes. 16-hours minimum.
Total Training Required 16-hours minimum.
Online Training Approved? Unknown
Referesher Training Required? Yes, 8-hours.
Separate Firearms Training? Yes, 40-hours.
Separate Baton Training? Yes.
Separate Pepper Spray Training? Yes.
Average Hourly Wage $13.64
Average Annual Salary $28,370
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Requirements to Become a Security Guard

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The applicant must:

  • be at least 18-years old.
  • visit one of two Delaware State Police (DSP) locations for fingerprint and picture processing.
  • complete the employee application. Applications are also available at both locations.
  • turn in training and test certificates to the professional licensing section.

Security Guard License (Unarmed Security Officer)

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Applicants must complete a 16 hour training with an approved instructor. The fee for the training varies by instructor.

Upon completion of the 16 hour training, applicants are then required to take a security guard exam through Delaware Technical and Community College. Applicants must take the 16 hour training certificate for admittance to the test.

  • NOTE: The actual license is issued by the State of Delaware, not the trainer.

Firearms Permits (Armed Security Officer)

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All applicants must be at least 21-years old and complete a 40 hour firearms course with an approved instructor.

The applicant must:

  • visit one of two Delaware State Police (DSP) locations for fingerprint and picture processing.
  • complete the employee application. Applications are also available at both locations.
  • turn in shoot sheets, training and test certificates.

  • NOTE: A Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) permit does not qualify a security guard to carry armed.

Renewal and Continuing Education Requirements

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Training and test certifications shall be submitted with each renewal application, and the training shall be completed no more than one year prior to submission of the application.

Fingerprinting/Background Check

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Convictions

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  • Must not have been convicted of any felony;
  • Must not have been convicted of any misdemeanor involving a theft-related offense, drug offense, or moral turpitude, within the last 7 years, and:
    • There are no more than 2 of such misdemeanors during such person’s lifetime; and
    • No misdemeanor conviction occurred during or as a result of employment in a capacity regulated by this chapter.
  • Must not have been, as a juvenile, adjudicated delinquent for conduct which, if committed by an adult would constitute a felony, unless and until that person has reached his or her twenty-first birthday;
  • If served in the armed forces, must not have been dishonorably discharged;

Baton, Inflammatory Agent Sprays, Chemical Sprays and Handcuffs

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The Board only approves security guards and armored car guards registered in 24 Del.C. Ch. 13 to carry law enforcement style batons, inflammatory agent sprays, chemical sprays and handcuffs. The carrying of these weapons/items is only authorized after the security guard/armored car guard completes the appropriate training program with a certified instructor as required by the manufacture of the weapon/item. It shall be the security guard/armored car guard's responsibility to maintain certification and requalification with the weapon/item consistent with manufacturer standards.