Financial aid (may be available)
Financial aid (may be available)
Financial aid (may be available)
Financial aid (may be available)
$80 total
$24.99 total
$80 total
No cost info
No cost info
No cost info
No cost info
No cost info
$120 total
No cost info
Have you ever considered a career in security? Being a security guard can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience, offering the chance to protect property and ensure the safety of others. This guide will walk you through how to become a security guard in Jacksonville, Florida.
A security guard is responsible for detecting, deterring, observing, and reporting potential threats to people, property, or assets. Security guards are employed across various industries:
Security work requires vigilance, professionalism, good judgment, and a clear understanding of laws and safety protocols.
To work legally as a Class D (unarmed) security officer in Florida, you must meet the following requirements, as outlined by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS):
This training typically includes:
If you plan to carry a firearm on duty, you must also obtain a Class G Statewide Firearms License, which includes:
You must complete both Class D and G licenses to work armed in Florida.
When selecting a training program, be sure to consider:
FDACS-Approved Curriculum
Only choose schools licensed by the state to issue Class D or Class G certification.
Real-World Instructors
Courses taught by former law enforcement or certified security professionals offer more practical training.
Flexible Options
Many programs offer evening, weekend, or hybrid online formats for working adults.
Completion Certificate
You’ll need this to apply for your state license.
You can compare security guard classes in Jacksonville on Dreambound by location, price, and schedule.
The 40-hour unarmed security guard course includes both classroom and practical exercises such as:
If you take a Class G (armed) training course, expect:
After completing your training:
Apply for a Class D License through the FDACS Division of Licensing, which requires:
For Armed Guards (Class G License), you must:
FDACS may take several weeks to process your application, so apply early.
According to the FDACS license renewal guidelines:
Failure to renew on time could lead to suspension or the need to reapply from scratch.
Once licensed, you can start applying for jobs right away. Good places to look include:
Consider creating a professional resume and preparing for interviews focused on judgment, observation, and incident handling.
To grow in your career, consider continuing education:
Armed Security (Class G License)
Required for any armed guard work in Florida.
Surveillance and Investigations
Learn how to monitor cameras, conduct investigations, and detect threats.
Emergency Medical Training (CPR, EMT Basics)
Be prepared to respond to health emergencies on-site.
Law Enforcement or Criminal Justice
A great stepping stone if you plan to transition into policing or corrections.
Fire Safety Courses
Particularly helpful if you’re assigned to high-risk facilities.
To stay competitive and up-to-date:
Strong community awareness makes you a better security guard. Try:
Building your security career often depends on who you know. You can:
Starting a security guard career in Jacksonville is straightforward—but only if you follow Florida’s licensing rules and complete your training at an approved school. Whether you're looking for a stable first job or planning a long-term public safety career, security work can be both meaningful and financially secure.
Dreambound makes it easy to find licensed security guard classes near you, compare options, and enroll today.
Dreambound has you covered with a series of detailed guides, each designed for a different city. And if you're elsewhere or considering a move, we've got more guides that might fit your needs.
Want to explore other career paths? Check out these popular guides:
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Some of our schools offer financial aid for those who qualify. Many others offer payment plans, where you can pay the cost of class over time.
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