How to Become a Security Guard in New Hampshire

How to Become a Security Guard in New Hampshire

If you are considering a job as a security job in New Hampshire, there are a few steps you need to take first.

Read on for some info on the licensing process and how you can start your new career.

Security Guard Description and Requirements

A security guard has to ensure a property is kept safe against intruders.

There are many job tasks you will have to fulfill, that include:

  • Working together with law enforcement to report any suspicious incidents
  • Ensure that the laws are respected on your employer’s property
  • Keep an eye on TV cameras and alarms
  • Patrol a designated area
  • Write reports about what you found during your checkups
  • Interview witnesses in the case of criminal activity

A security guard should also have some skills, which include:

  • Solid communication skills
  • Ability to decide fast
  • Empathy skills with the customers
  • Know how to use a gun if needed
  • Knowledge of public safety
  • Know the laws and regulations in New Hampshire
  • Work well alone but also in a team

 Security Guards Training in New Hampshire

In New Hampshire, you need to get a security guard license.

These are issued by The Support Services Bureau, Permits and Licensing Unit.

If you want to get a permit fast, you can enroll in a short training program.

The program will help you develop your skills in order to pass the licensing exam.

You can also choose to get an associate’s degree, which takes longer to finish.

Although you will be in school for about 2 years, you can get increased career opportunities in the future.

While studying, you will attend hours of theory and practice.

The theory hours include the next topics:

  • Employer policies and orientation
  • Post orders
  • Officer safety
  • Evacuation procedures
  • Access control
  • Trespassing
  • Advanced arrests, search and seizure
  • Laws and regulations
  • First aid and CPR
  • Workplace violence
  • Handling difficult people
  • Crowd control
  • Preserving incidence scenes
  • Driver safety
  • Chemical agents
  • Courtroom demeanor
  • Supervision
  • Radio procedures
  • Parking and traffic control
  • School security guard training
  • Executive protection
  • Baton training
  • Fire safety
  • Using an air taser or stun gun
  • Public relations and communication
  • Observation and documentation
  • Legal aspects and liability

Applying for a Security Guard Certification in New Hampshire

In order to fulfill the licensing requirements, you have to:

  • Be 18 years of age
  • Pass a drug test, as it is required by most employers
  • A background check which may include your driving experience
    •  It is based on your fingerprints
  • A high-school diploma or GED
  • EMT certification
  • The training diploma signed by your supervisor
  • The registration fee of $40 for unarmed guards and an extra $26.50 for an armed guard

Becoming an Armed Security Guard

Security guards who want to carry a gun need to comply with extra requirements.

You will need to take a specific class in order to get this permit.

This class needs to be attended every year after you get your license.

The training subjects should cover:

  • Firearm familiarization
  • Safe handling
  • Shooting judgment
  • Issues regarding the use of deadly force
  • Civil and criminal liability

The training should be done by an instructor who got a license from one of the next entities:

  • National Rifle Association
  • Smith & Wesson
  • SIG Sauer
  • Police Standards and Training Council
  • FBI

You will also need to pass an accuracy test with a score of at least 75%.

If you don’t get this certification, you will still be allowed to work as a non-armed security guard.

You will also need to provide 3 reference letters from past employers.

If you have been convicted before or have a history of mental illness, you need to provide extra details.

Becoming an Individual Security Guard

As an individual security guard, you will be able to start your own company.

For this, you need to submit a $50,000 surety bond.

You also need to pay a $180 fee that includes fingerprints and the background check.

How to work as a security guard in the public sector in New Hampshire

To practice in the public sector in New Hampshire, you have to:

  • Learn state and agency policies and procedures
  • Learn to operate electronic monitoring devices
  • Communicate with various groups, from visitors to government officials
  • Operate vehicles and equipment
  • Handle emergency situations calmly
  • Administer first aid and CPR
  • Be at least 21 years old
  • Have a high-school diploma or a GED
  • One year of experience in the industry, including military and law enforcement

Salaries for Security Guards in New Hampshire

This state provides higher salaries to security guards with some experience.

This is also the case if you run your own business or live in a metropolitan area.

Generally, entry-level security guards earn a lower salary.

Annual Salary Range:
$33K
$41K
$52K
10%
50%
90%
Annual Salary by Location:
Location Avg. Annual Salary
Manchester $41,799
Nashua $44,162
Concord $42,044
Derry $42,933
Dover $41,718
Rochester $41,547
Salem $43,511
Merrimack $44,162
Londonderry $44,162
Hudson $44,162

Regional Salary in New Hampshire

Region Employed Avg. Annual Salary Avg. Hourly Pay Top 10% Annual Salary Bottom 10% Annual Salary
Dover-Durham, NH-ME140$38,840$18.68$49,470$24,750
Manchester, NH590$42,940$20.64$52,740$35,390
Portsmouth, NH-ME350$41,260$19.84$52,400$28,830
* Salary information based on the May 2023 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Security Guards, OCC Code 33-9032, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

Additional Information

The most important aspect is to finish your training and get hired.

This will help you develop a lucrative career in this industry.

USA Security Guard License by State


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