Law Enforcement Officers: Security Guard Work Options In Nc

In North Carolina, there are specific requirements and regulations for individuals seeking to become security guards. While a security guard license is not required, individuals must meet certain eligibility criteria, including age, citizenship, criminal record, and training requirements. Interestingly, the question of whether a law enforcement officer can work as a security guard has been addressed, and it has been concluded that a law enforcement officer can be employed during their off-duty hours by a licensed security guard company, provided they do not wear their police uniform or use police equipment. This exception also applies to certified law enforcement officers working for a temporary employment agency providing security services to clients.

Law enforcement officers can be employed as security guards in their off-duty hours

In North Carolina, law enforcement officers can be employed as security guards during their off-duty hours. However, they must be employed by a licensed security guard and patrol company and must not wear their police officer's uniform or use police equipment while working for the security company.

To become a security guard in North Carolina, there are specific requirements that must be met. Firstly, individuals must be 18 years or older for unarmed security guard positions and 21 years or older for armed security guard roles. Additionally, they must be employed by a North Carolina security company, possess a clean criminal record, and be a US citizen or have legal permission to work in the state. Proficiency in English, both written and spoken, is also a prerequisite.

The process of becoming a security guard in North Carolina involves several steps. Firstly, individuals must undergo a fingerprint-based background check, submitting their fingerprints on an FBI applicant card. They are also required to provide criminal record searches from counties of residence over the previous 48 months. In-state applicants can perform this search through the North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts Public Access User.

Once hired by a security company, individuals must complete a mandatory 16-hour security training course within the first month of employment. This course is administered by the NC security company. Additionally, armed security guards are required to undergo further training, with specific requirements for those carrying a shotgun.

Security guards in North Carolina are responsible for various tasks, including foot patrols, monitoring mechanical rooms for unusual signs and potential hazards, and documenting maintenance issues. They also play a crucial role in ensuring fire extinguishers are up to date with inspections. It is important to note that security guard licensing for employees does not exist in North Carolina; instead, security guards are regulated through their NC security employer.

Security guard licensing for employees does not exist in North Carolina

The registration requirements for security guards in North Carolina vary depending on whether they are armed or unarmed. Armed guards must be at least 21 years old and complete a minimum of 20 hours of training, including four hours on 'security officer legal issues' and 'the security guard within North Carolina'. They must also qualify on an approved target course and pass a refresher course annually to renew their firearm registration permit.

Unarmed guards have a lower registration fee and do not require additional training hours. However, all security guards, regardless of whether they are armed or unarmed, must undergo fingerprint-based background checks and provide criminal record searches from counties they have resided in during the previous 48 months.

It is important to note that out-of-state security guard credentials are not valid in North Carolina, and security guards must be registered with the state. They begin as probationary employees, and the state has regulations in place for them, such as the requirement to receive some training within 20 days of placement.

Additionally, security guard agencies or companies must be licensed by the Board as a prerequisite to engaging in the private protective services business. This license is typically issued to a company executive and authorizes the company to provide private protective services within the state.

A security guard must be a citizen/resident alien and 18 years or older

To become a security guard in North Carolina, an individual must be a citizen or resident alien and be 18 years or older. They must also display good moral character.

Both unarmed and armed security guards are registered with the state of North Carolina. Security guards begin as probationary employees and are registered when there is an intent to hire them in a non-probationary capacity. The state has regulations in place for probationary employees, who must receive some training within 20 days of placement on post.

The North Carolina Private Protective Services Board oversees licensing and registration. The Board also licenses "qualifying agents", who are managers of security agencies. All security companies, except sole proprietorships, must have a qualifying agent.

An individual with management, administrative, or supervisory-level security experience can obtain a private patrol license, which authorizes self-employment. This experience must be in a guard or patrol capacity and may be accrued in a law enforcement organization.

Armed guards must undergo additional training and qualify with their firearm. They will also need to complete a refresher course and requalify before each annual renewal.

Security guards must undergo a fingerprint-based background check

In North Carolina, security guards must undergo a fingerprint-based background check. This is a mandatory requirement for both unarmed and armed security guards. The fingerprints are to be submitted on an FBI applicant card, and the applicant must also provide criminal record searches from counties where they have resided in the previous 48 months.

The fingerprint fee is $38, and this is paid at the time of application. The fingerprints are sent to the North Carolina Private Protective Services Board, which can be contacted via email or telephone. The Licensing Unit's phone number is (919) 788-5320.

The fingerprinting process is a secure procedure, with encrypted transmission of information. The scanned fingerprints are sent to the Washington State Patrol (WSP), and if a national background check is required, the WSP forwards the fingerprints to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The results are then sent electronically to the licensing authority.

It is important to note that there are different application forms for unarmed and armed guards, and these forms include a summary of the required materials. In addition to the fingerprint-based background check, applicants for security guard positions in North Carolina must meet other requirements, such as being a citizen or resident alien over 18 years old and displaying good moral character.

Armed security guards must complete a refresher course before each annual renewal

In North Carolina, armed security guards are required to complete a refresher course and requalify before each annual renewal of their registration. The state has specific requirements for security guards, including regulations for probationary employees, who must receive some training within 20 days of placement.

The registration fee for armed guards is $45, and it must be renewed annually. Armed guards who carry a shotgun require additional training and must qualify with the shotgun. Before the annual renewal, armed security guards must complete a refresher course and requalify. This course ensures that guards are up-to-date with the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their duties effectively.

The North Carolina Private Protective Services Board oversees the licensing and registration process for security guards in the state. The Board can be contacted for detailed information on licensing and registration requirements. It is important for armed security guards to stay compliant with the regulations to maintain their registration in good standing.

To renew their registration, armed security guards in North Carolina must complete an 8-hour refresher course annually. This course covers various topics to ensure guards are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to handle different situations. The course content includes:

• Interpreting the appropriate use of reasonable force
• Describing the Use of Force Continuum/Ladder
• Explaining the use of restraint techniques and their implications
• Understanding the use of deadly force
• Recognizing pre-assault indicators
• Explaining escalation and de-escalation techniques in the use of force
• Paraphrased responsibilities of a private security guard

By completing this refresher course, armed security guards can enhance their skills, stay updated with any changes in regulations or industry standards, and ensure they are well-prepared to handle diverse situations that may arise during their duties.

Frequently asked questions