A commissioned security officer is licensed to carry a firearm and take on more serious jobs, like protecting banks, executives, or high-risk sites. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what the role involves, how to get licensed, and what kind of work and pay to expect.

‍In this article, we’ll cover: 

• What a commissioned security officer is
• Commissioned vs non-commissioned
• How to get licensed
• Career options and pay

Let’s start by defining what a commissioned security officer is.

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What is a commissioned security officer?

A commissioned security officer or CSO is someone who’s licensed by the state to carry a firearm while on duty. Unlike non-commissioned officers, they go through extra training that covers gun safety, legal use of force, and how to handle more serious situations. Because of that, they’re trusted to protect higher-risk places like banks, corporate offices, or executive clients.

This role comes with more responsibility, which is why in some states, it requires a Level 3 security license and the corresponding training.

Here’s a tip: Commissioned security officers are just armed security guards — this is just what they are called in Texas. You can be an armed guard in any state since the requirements are often similar.

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Key responsibilities of CSOs

Commissioned officers aren’t just there to watch a door. Since they’re licensed to carry a firearm, different types of security companies trust them with more serious work. Here’s the kind of stuff they usually handle:

• Carrying a firearm: Commissioned officers are legally allowed to carry a gun while on duty, and they need to be ready to use it if the situation calls for it, like during an armed robbery or a violent confrontation.
  
  
• Protecting high-risk spots: These officers often work in places where the stakes are higher, such as banks, government buildings, or during VIP events where there’s a bigger chance something could go wrong.
  
  
• Dealing with real threats: If someone starts a fight, pulls a weapon, or breaks into a secured area, a commissioned officer may need to step in, control the situation, and detain the person until law enforcement shows up.
  
  
• Filing reports: After any serious incident, or even just regular patrols, officers are expected to write up what happened clearly and accurately. That way, there’s a proper record in case anything goes to court.
  
  
• Knowing when to use force: Officers have to follow strict laws about when and how to use force. They need to make quick decisions under pressure, and they’re held accountable for how they respond.

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Where do commissioned security officers work? 

Security firms hire commissioned security officers to work in places where there’s more to protect (and more risk if something goes wrong). Since they’re armed and trained to handle serious situations, they’re often placed in locations that need an extra layer of protection.

Some common job sites include:

• Banks and financial buildings: These spots deal with money and can be targets for theft or robbery.
  
  
• Corporate offices: Especially ones that handle sensitive data, valuable assets, or have high-profile executives.
  
  
• Retail stores: Big retailers sometimes use armed guards to prevent theft or handle problems with aggressive customers.
  
  
• Government buildings: Local and state facilities may hire commissioned officers to handle public access and keep things under control.
  
  
• VIP events or private parties: When celebrities, politicians, or wealthy individuals are involved, security needs to be tight.
  
  
• Hospitals and schools: In certain areas, these places may use armed officers as a precaution against potential threats.

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Commissioned vs. non-commissioned security officers

The main difference between these two roles comes down to training and authority. Here’s a quick side-by-side:

• Non-commissioned officers: These officers usually do unarmed jobs like monitoring cameras, checking badges, doing patrols, and writing reports. They’re more common in places like apartment complexes, retail stores, or office lobbies.
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• Commissioned officers: These officers do everything non-commissioned officers do. But since this role comes with firearms training, a license to carry, and the authority to respond to high-risk situations, you’ll often find them at places like banks, armored transport jobs, or working executive protection.

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What is the difference between Level 2 and Level 3 security officers?

The levels refer to the training and license type. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Level 2: This is basic security guard training for unarmed guards. It covers the fundamentals of patrolling, report writing, and how to act in different situations.
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• Level 3: This is advanced training that includes firearms handling, use-of-force laws, and real-world scenario practice. This level is required if you want to become a commissioned officer.

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How to become a commissioned security officer

The exact process can vary a bit by state, but most follow a similar path. Here’s what you need to do:

• Meet the basic requirements: You’ll need to be at least 18 or 21 years old (depending on your state) and legally allowed to work in the US. You also need a clean criminal record, since felonies and certain misdemeanors will usually disqualify you.
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• Complete Level 3 training: This is where things get serious. You’ll take a state-approved Level 3 course that covers firearms safety, use-of-force laws, and how to handle real security threats. You’ll also need to pass a shooting test to prove you know how to safely use your weapon.
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• Pass a background check and get fingerprinted: Most states will run a full background check and ask for your fingerprints before giving you the green light.
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• Apply for your commission card: Once your training and background check are done, you’ll submit your application through your state’s licensing department. Some states let you do this online, while others may require paper forms.
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• Keep your certification current: Licenses don’t last forever, so you’ll need to renew your commission card and keep up with any required training to stay active.

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How to get your Level 3 security license

Getting your Level 3 license is one of the biggest steps toward becoming a commissioned officer. Here’s what the training usually includes:

• Firearms handling and safety: You’ll learn how to carry, load, and store your weapon properly, plus how to use it under pressure.
  
• Use-of-force laws: This covers when it’s legal to use force, what kind of force is allowed, and what happens if you mess that up.
  
• Conflict resolution: You’ll get tips on how to talk someone down, stay calm under stress, and avoid violence whenever possible.
  
• Emergency response: From medical emergencies to active threats, you’ll learn how to react fast and make the right call.
  
• Crowd control and defensive tactics: Some situations call for physical intervention, and this part of the training shows you how to do it safely.

Once you finish the training, you’ll take a written test and a firearm qualification exam. If you pass both, you’ll be eligible to apply for your commission.

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Do all states require a level 3 license?

Not exactly. The term “Level 3” is mostly used in states like Texas, where training levels are clearly defined. Other states might call it something else or just list out the training requirements without using levels.

What really matters is whether you want to carry a firearm on the job. If you do, your state will have a specific process for that which usually includes firearms training, a background check, and a separate license or endorsement.

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Jobs and career paths for commissioned security officers

Once you’re licensed as a commissioned officer, you’ve got way more options than your average guard. Since you’re trained and armed, you can take on jobs that pay better and come with more responsibility. Here are some common roles:

• Private armed security: You might guard banks, office buildings, or high-end retail stores that deal with valuable goods.
  
• Executive protection: This involves working closely with CEOs, celebrities, or public figures. You’ll keep them safe at home, in transit, and at events.
  
• Armored transport: Moving money, jewelry, or other high-value items from one place to another — usually in bulletproof trucks.
  
• Event security: For concerts, political rallies, or other large gatherings where armed officers are needed to keep things under control.
  
• School or hospital security: In certain areas, these places use armed guards to handle potential threats and protect staff and visitors.

With experience, you might also move into supervisor roles or work with private security contractors that handle federal or state-level jobs.

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Frequently asked questions

How much does a commissioned security officer make?

A commissioned officer in Texas makes an average of about $16 per hour, or about $33,600 a year.

How long does it take to become a commissioned security officer?

It usually takes a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on how quickly you complete the training, background checks, and paperwork. Some states move faster than others.

Can a commissioned security officer make arrests?

Not in the same way police can. Commissioned officers can detain someone if a crime happens on the property they’re protecting, but they have to call law enforcement to handle the actual arrest.

Do commissioned security officers need ongoing training?

Yes. Most states require you to renew your license every year (or two), and some ask for updated firearms training or refresher courses.

Is becoming a commissioned security officer worth it?

If you want better pay, more responsibility, and the chance to work in more serious roles, it’s definitely worth considering. Just know that it comes with more risk and more accountability.

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Why Belfry is your go-to platform for managing commissioned security officers 

Now that you’ve got a clear picture of what a commissioned security officer does, the next step is managing your guards efficiently. That’s where Belfry comes in.

Belfry is an all-in-one security management platform that helps you simplify your security operations. 

Here’s how: 

• Easy scheduling: Minimize scheduling conflicts and avoid unmanned shifts thanks to Belfry’s automated scheduling features that assign shifts based on site requirements, officer certifications, and training.
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• Increased officer accountability: Belfry has GPS tracking and NFC-based guided tours to help you make sure your guards are adhering to their post orders. Geofencing alerts help alert you if a guard leaves their designated area.
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• Digital incident reporting: Goodbye pen and paper — guards can more easily keep you up-to-date by sending digital incident reports through the Belfry mobile app. They can even attach any photos or videos of evidence if needed.
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• Track certifications: Prevent license compliance lapses by inputting your officers’ licenses and certifications. Belfry tracks renewal dates automatically and sends notifications when they’re coming up.
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• Simplified payroll: Belfry automates time and attendance tracking to make payroll easier. It also tracks overtime, labor expenses, and timesheets to make financial reporting a breeze.

Ready to see how Belfry simplifies security workforce management? Schedule a Free Belfry Demo today.