Security Officer Basics / Resources
Resources and next steps
Where to go after Security Officer Basics: the next steps in order, then every link from the lessons with what it's for. Links open the official site in a new tab.
Next steps, in order
All resources
- Occupational Outlook Handbook: Security Guards
Official pay, job outlook and what the work involves, nationwide and by state. Use it to compare security work with other careers.
- CareerOneStop: Security Guards occupation profile
Pay in your state and city, typical duties and skills, and links to local jobs and training.
- CareerOneStop Job Finder
A free job search from the Department of Labor. Search "security officer" with your city or ZIP code.
- License Finder (U.S. Department of Labor, CareerOneStop)
Search "security guard" and pick your state to find the licensing agency and its requirements. Covers every state, DC and the territories.
- DC DLCP Security Program
Where DC security officer and special police officer licenses are issued: required documents, fees, fingerprints and the exam. Check here before you apply in DC.
- DC Regulation on Special Police (one-page summary)
A DC government summary of training hours for special police and security officers, current and proposed.
- Maryland State Police: Security Guard Certification
Maryland's requirements, the 12-hour training rule, fingerprints and how your employer submits the application. Check here before you apply in Maryland.
- Virginia DCJS: Unarmed Security Officer
Answers on Virginia registration: the 18-hour entry-level course, working while you finish training, and renewal. Check here before you apply in Virginia.
- Virginia regulation 6VAC20-174-330 (training hours)
The official rule listing the minimum training hours for each Virginia security registration.
- Virginia DCJS online licensing (LOTUS)
Virginia's online system for applying for and renewing security registrations.
- CISA: Employee Vigilance Through the Power of Hello
How a friendly greeting helps you notice concerning behavior early and respond safely. A quick read with a printable guide.
- CISA De-escalation Series
Free federal fact sheets on recognizing, assessing and calming tense situations, and when to report.
- FEMA IS-906: Workplace Security Awareness
A free online federal course on workplace security. FEMA issues its own certificate when you pass the final exam.
- FEMA IS-907.A: Active Shooter: What You Can Do
A free online federal course on warning signs and responding to an active shooter, with a FEMA certificate.
- American Red Cross: Take a Class
Find accredited CPR, AED and first aid classes near you (in person or blended). Useful on almost any security post.
- American Heart Association: CPR and First Aid course finder
Find AHA CPR and first aid courses (Heartsaver, BLS) and training centers near you.
- Apply to Hire Police
Hire Police's application page for security officer jobs in DC and Maryland.