If you're looking to start a career as a security guard in Utah, it's essential to understand the Utah security guard licensing process. This article takes you through the requirements for obtaining a Utah security guard license starting from training, dealing with the exam, getting a license, and renewing it later on so that you don’t skip any necessary step in being a licensed Security Guard in Utah.
Utah Security Guard Licensing Requirements
- Unarmed Security Guards
To apply as an unarmed security guard in Utah, a candidate must be at least eighteen years and produce some form of identification. Applicants will need to complete an 8-hour DOPL-approved training course and pass a final exam to qualify for a Utah Unarmed Private Security Officer License. Upon passing, they will receive a certificate of completion, which is submitted along with their application to the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL).
- Armed Security Guards
To become an armed security guard in Utah, applicants must be achieving the age of 18 years and hold a valid driver’s license from the United States. In addition to the basic 8-hour security guard training, the candidate is also expected to undergo a DOPL-approved 12-hour firearms training course. A course completion certificate is a requirement for obtaining a Utah armed private security officer license.
- Application and Background Checks
Application submittals for anyone who plans to become either an armed or unarmed security guard are to incorporate the proof of training. Besides, they need to undergo a criminal history check including fingerprints that have been processed by the Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) together with the FBI.
Even though criminal history checks are not a barrier that automatically leads to the rejection of an applicant, there are instances where you may be unable to apply for a Utah security guard license. Additionally, the Utah DOPL Criminal History Guidelines state what kind of offenses may disqualify an applicant, and it would be advisable to review your criminal record and if possible have it cleared.
Some include potential disqualifications:
- Conviction of felony
- Offenses that would interfere with the performance of security guard duties
- Court ruling that someone is of unsound mind
- Substance abuse disorder
- For armed security officers, any felony on record renders one unable to have a firearm.
Utah Security Guard License Renewal
Utah issues licenses for unarmed and armed security guards valid for two years; any armed security guard training is valid for the same period. The license specifies the date after which it is to be rendered invalid while at least 60 days before this date, renewal notices are sent via email. The renewal fee for either type of license is $42.
Any attempt to renew an armed security officer's license without earning 32 hours of continuing education in two years will be futile. For armed guards, it is necessary to undergo a further 16 hours of firearms training with at least 4 hours of leave every six months.
Begin Your Security Guard Career with Security Guard School
If you wish to become a licensed Utah security guard, take note that Security Guard School is a training provider that provides initial training and ongoing education for Utah security guard licensing.
Security Guard School’s online self-paced training programs satisfy the DOPL’s licensing requirements and provide you with everything that you need to get an unarmed security officer license or the renewal of your current license. Right after you finish an 8-hour security guard training program or a complete 32-hour continuing education program, you can download your official certificate of completion as it will be required when you apply for a Utah security guard license.
Security Guard School’s course topics are invaluable and include but are not limited to the responsibilities of a guard, report writing, the conduct of violence, and so forth. Their online platform provides access from any device anytime, enabling you to access the training.
For those renewing their license, the Utah Guard License Renewal Bundle has 32 hours of continuing education for approving bodies which cover certain advanced areas like ethics, sexual harassment, as well as de-escalation exercises among others. Armed security guards can also undergo gun training which is required to gain certification with Security Guard School.
Ready to Get Started?
In case you intend to pursue a career as a security guard in Utah, you must visit the Security Guard School’s website at securityguardschool.com. Security Guard School will assist you with all the requirements needed for your Utah security guard certification whether you require further training or are a newbie seeking initial training.
Those who are engaged in providing security services in Utah, as well as other Security guard School options, are also inexpensive online training solutions. There is a trial available at no cost so you can go through the training which will enable you to appreciate how Security Guard School helps new employees meet the certification.