FAQ

  • Frequently Asked Questions.  Everything you need to know about NY State security guard training and registration
  • .01.  What training courses are required to be employed as a security guard?  The Department of Criminal Justice Services requires all security guards to undergo mandatory training in accordance with the Security Guard Act of 1992. Each security guard must successfully complete three designated courses, totaling 32 hours of instruction for general security guards. These courses must be administered by certified instructors and delivered through officially approved training institutions.
  • The initial mandatory course is an 8-Hour Pre-Assignment Training program.
  • The second required course is the 16-Hour On-the-Job Training course (OJT). Once the application is submitted, the guard has 90 days to complete this training.
  • The third required program is the 8-Hour Annual In-Service course. Completion is required annually so guards remain up-to-date. Failing to fulfill this annual requirement will prevent you from renewing your license.

 02.  Who may provide New York State required security guard training?  Only a New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) approved security guard training school may provide required New York State security guard training. Individuals teaching these courses must be DCJS certified instructors.
03.  When do I have to complete the 16-Hour On-the-Job Training Course?  The 16-Hour On-the-Job Training Course is required for all security guards in New York State and must be completed within 90 days of being employed as a security guard. 
04.  Do I have to complete additional training (metal detection, terrorism, fire guard, CPR, etc.) to obtain a NYS security guard registration card?  No. New York State does not require any other course completion to maintain a license; however, an individual employer may require additional training for their specific role.

05.  How much does the training cost?
  • $68 — Pre-Certification Course
  • $68 — 8-Hour Annual Refresher Course
  • $136 — 16-Hour On-the-Job Training Course
06.  What does the school give me when I complete a course? Orion Security Training School issues a DCJS approved certificate of completion to students who successfully complete required security guard training courses according to New York State Compilation of Codes, Rules and Regulations (NYCRR) Part 6027.12(c).

07.  How can I find a school to obtain required security guard training?  DCJS maintains a list of approved security guard training schools providing courses required by NYS General Business Law Article 7-A, section 89-n. View the official DCJS list (PDF).

08.  Who can answer questions about my specific personal circumstances?  Questions regarding what courses and time frames are required based on specific personal circumstances can only be answered by the Department of State (DOS). DOS may be contacted at (518) 474-7569.
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