How To Get a Class “D” Security License
Learn how to get a Class “D” security license in Florida with our complete guide. We cover requirements, training, fees, and even career opportunities.
Did you know that in Florida, even security officers working in places like hospitals and schools need to be licensed to make sure they have the necessary training to handle a variety of situations?
This article provides a complete guide to obtaining a Class "D" security license, the gateway to a career in security in the Sunshine State.
Read on to learn:
- What a Class "D" security officer license is and why it's important
- The requirements for obtaining and maintaining this license
- The training topics covered and the career opportunities available
What is a Class “D” security license?
A Class “D” security officer license is a state-issued credential in Florida that authorizes an individual to work as an unarmed security guard.
It's a fundamental requirement for anyone looking to fill this role within the state. This license confirms that security officers have undergone the necessary training to perform their duties professionally and responsibly.
What does a Class "D" security officer do?
Individuals holding a Florida Class “D” security license are entrusted with a range of duties to protect property and maintain a safe environment. These responsibilities typically include:
- Patrolling: Regularly monitoring assigned areas to maintain a visible security presence and deter potential threats. This could involve walking around a building, monitoring security cameras, or checking in with employees.
- Access control: Ensuring that only authorized individuals enter a property. This might mean checking IDs, issuing badges, or operating security gates.
- Emergency response: Being prepared to handle a range of situations, from minor incidents to major emergencies. This includes knowing how to contact the proper authorities, provide first aid, and evacuate people if necessary.
- Report writing: Document any incidents or observations that occur during a shift. This helps to maintain records and make sure that any problems are addressed.
Why is this certification important?
The Class “D” license represents a commitment to upholding security standards and professionalism. Here's why it's so crucial:
- Legal requirement: It's mandated by law for anyone working as an unarmed security guard in Florida. Businesses and organizations must guarantee their security personnel hold this license to comply with state regulations.
- Safety and legal compliance: The required training equips security officers to handle security challenges responsibly and ethically, minimizing risks and securing legal compliance.
- Professional standard: It assures clients and employers that security officers have the knowledge and skills to perform their duties.
Requirements for obtaining a Class “D” security license
This section breaks down the essential qualifications and legal requirements for those working as unarmed security guards in the state. Let’s take a closer look at those requirements:
Basic qualifications
Before diving into the specific requirements, let's outline the basic qualifications that apply to all applicants:
- Minimum age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old to be considered for a Class “D” license.
- Citizenship or residency: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal resident aliens or possess work authorization granted by the Department of Homeland Security.
- Background check: All applicants undergo a thorough background check to confirm they meet Florida's standards for security personnel.
Florida-specific requirements
Florida has specific regulations in place to make sure that security officers are well-prepared for their duties. Here are the key legal requirements:
- Mandatory training: Applicants must complete a minimum of 40 hours of professional training from a licensed security officer school or training facility approved by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS).
This training covers essential aspects of security work, including legal guidelines, emergency procedures, and effective communication.
- Training exceptions: There are some exceptions to the 40-hour training requirement for individuals with specific backgrounds, such as law enforcement officers or those with relevant military training.
- Fingerprint submission: Applicants must submit their fingerprints electronically to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement as part of the background check process.
Checklist: Steps to get a Class “D” security license
Whether you're an aspiring guard or an employer looking to understand the process, this checklist will guide you through the essential steps to obtain a Class “D” security license. Let’s begin with the first step:
Step 1: Complete the required training hours
First and foremost, you'll need to complete a mandatory 40-hour training course. Here’s a quick overview of what’s covered in this mandatory training:
- Legal aspects: Gain a solid understanding of Florida's laws and regulations related to security work, including the use of force, arrest procedures, and citizens' rights.
- Security procedures: Learn best practices for patrolling, access control, incident reporting, and emergency response.
- Communication skills: Develop effective communication techniques for interacting with the public, handling difficult situations, and de-escalating conflicts.
This training must be obtained through a licensed security officer school or training facility approved by the FDACS.
Step 2: Find a certified training provider
Choosing the right training provider is crucial for a successful learning experience. Here are some tips to help you find a quality program:
- Verify certification: Ensure the state of Florida licenses the provider. You can usually find this information on their website or by contacting the FDACS.
- Explore online options: Consider a Class “D” security license online course in Florida for flexibility and convenience. Just make sure it meets all state requirements.
- Read reviews: Check online reviews and testimonials from previous students to get a sense of the program's quality and effectiveness.
- Compare costs: Training costs can vary, so compare prices from different providers to find one that fits your budget.
Step 3: Submit the application
Submission can be done online, in person, or by mail through the FDACS. Here's a quick rundown:
- Gather documents: You'll need proof of training completion, a passport-style photo, and any other required documentation (like proof of citizenship or residency).
- Complete the application: Fill out the application accurately and completely, providing all requested information.
- Submit to FDACS: Submit your application by mailing it to the FDACS (PO Box 5767, Tallahassee, Florida 32314-5767) or schedule an appointment at a regional office.
Step 4: Pay licensing fees
These fees cover the cost of processing your application, conducting background checks, and administering the licensing program.
- Initial fees: Expect to pay an application fee and a license fee when you first apply. As of November 2024, the fee is $97.75 plus a $15 revised/duplicate fee.
- Renewal fees: You'll also need to pay a renewal fee every two years to maintain your license. As of November 2024, the renewal license fee for a Class “D” security license is $45, plus a renewal fingerprint retention fee of $16.75 and a revised/duplicate fee of $15.
Note: Fee amounts are subject to change, so check the FDACS website for the most up-to-date information.
Step 5: Complete Fingerprinting and Background Check
As part of the application process, you'll be required to submit your fingerprints electronically to the FDACS. This is a crucial step in ensuring the safety and security of the public. Let’s answer some common questions about this topic:
- Why is this necessary? It allows the FDACS to conduct a background check, making sure that applicants meet the state's standards for security work. This helps prevent those with criminal records or other disqualifying factors from getting a license.
- Where can I get fingerprinted? You can have your fingerprints scanned at your local sheriff's office, police department, or one of the FDACS regional offices.
Class “D” security license training topics
We've already touched on some of the key areas covered in the 40-hour training required for a Class “D” security license. Now, let's dive deeper into the curriculum:
Legal foundation
A significant portion of the training focuses on establishing a strong legal foundation. This includes:
- Florida statutes: Understanding the relevant laws and regulations governing security work in Florida, including Chapter 493, is critical. This covers everything from the scope of authority for security officers to the use of force and arrest procedures.
- Liability and legal responsibilities: Officers learn about their legal responsibilities and potential liabilities in various situations, emphasizing the importance of acting within the bounds of the law.
- Ethics and professional conduct: Training emphasizes ethical decision-making and maintaining a professional demeanor at all times. This includes understanding and respecting individuals' rights while upholding safety and security.
Security procedures and best practices
Beyond the legal framework, training goes into practical security procedures and techniques. Let’s zoom in:
- Access control: Mastering techniques for controlling access to buildings and restricted areas, including verifying identification, operating security equipment, and handling visitor management.
- Patrol techniques: Learning effective patrol strategies to maintain a visible presence, deter crime, and identify potential security risks. This includes observation skills, recognizing suspicious behavior, and documenting patrol activities.
- Emergency response: Developing the skills to respond to various emergencies, such as fires, medical incidents, and security breaches. This involves knowing how to assess situations, contact the appropriate authorities, and provide basic first aid if necessary.
- Incident reporting and documentation: Knowing the importance of detailed incident reporting. This includes learning how to gather information, write clear and concise reports, and maintain proper documentation for legal and operational purposes.
Communication and interpersonal skills
Effective communication is paramount in security work. Training emphasizes:
- Interpersonal communication: Developing strong communication skills for interacting with the public, handling inquiries, and resolving conflicts peacefully.
- De-escalation techniques: Learning how to de-escalate tense situations and manage difficult individuals through verbal communication and conflict resolution strategies.
- Report writing: Mastering clear and concise written communication skills for incident reports, log entries, and other security documentation.
Maintaining and renewing a Class “D” security license
Getting a Class “D” security license is one thing, and making sure it remains active is another. Let’s go over the renewal process:
Renewal timelines
Class “D” security licenses in Florida are valid for two years. Renewal is required before the expiration date to maintain the ability to work in the field. It's crucial to be proactive and begin the renewal process well in advance of the expiration date.
Renewal steps
Renewing a Class “D” security license involves a process similar to the initial application, with a few key distinctions:
- Complete the renewal application: Approximately 95 days prior to the expiration date of your license, the FDACS will mail you a renewal application form with complete instructions on how to renew your license.
- Pay renewal fees: As stated before, the renewal license fee for a Class "D" security license is $45. In addition, a fingerprint retention fee of $16.75 and a revised/duplicate fee of $15 are also required.
- Submit fingerprints: As with the initial application, fingerprint submission is necessary for a background check. This confirms continued compliance with the state's standards for security personnel.
Opportunities with a Class “D” security license
Getting a Class "D" security license in Florida can unlock various opportunities within the security industry. Let’s go over what those roles may be:
Available roles
A Class "D" license allows individuals to work in a variety of unarmed security positions throughout Florida. Some common roles include:
- Security guard: Providing security presence and protection in various settings, such as retail stores, residential communities, office buildings, and hospitals.
- Campus security officer: Maintaining safety and security on school campuses and college grounds.
- Event security: Working at concerts, sporting events, festivals, and other gatherings to ensure crowd control and safety.
- Loss prevention officer: Protecting assets and preventing theft in retail environments.
- Hospital security officer: Maintaining a safe and secure environment in healthcare facilities.
Career growth potential
While a Class "D" license focuses on unarmed security, it can serve as a foundation for career advancement. With experience and extra training, individuals can pursue:
- Supervisory roles: Advance to positions such as Security Supervisor or Security Manager, overseeing a team of security officers.
- Specialized security: Pursue specialized areas like executive protection, investigations, or security consulting.
- Armed security: Obtain a Class "G" Statewide Firearm License to work in armed security positions. This requires additional training and qualifications.
Simplify Class "D" security license management with Belfry
We’ve outlined the process of obtaining a Class "D" security license in Florida. However, for security companies managing numerous officers, ensuring compliance and staying on top of renewals can be a daunting task.
That's where Belfry comes in.
Belfry's end-to-end security management platform helps companies streamline operations and maintain compliance with ease. Here's how Belfry helps:
- License tracking and expiration alerts: Never let a license expire. Belfry allows you to upload and store guards' licenses, automatically tracking expiration dates and sending timely alerts to both the company and the officer when renewals are approaching.
- Training and certification management: Track and manage guards' training and certifications to make sure they remain current. Belfry helps schedule training, monitor progress, and keep records, securing compliance with the 40-hour training requirement.
- Real-time monitoring and reporting: Monitor officers' locations and activities in real-time, guaranteeing they are on-site and performing their duties. Generate detailed reports on your team's compliance status with a single click.
- Integrated payroll and ACA compliance: Manage payroll, benefits, and ACA compliance directly within the platform. This eliminates the need for third-party apps and provides accurate record-keeping.