How to Become a Security Guard in South Carolina

Do you want to be a security guard in South Carolina?

If that is the case, you first need to know what are the requirements in this state.

So, read on below for info and tips.

Security Guard Job Description and Requirements

A security guard has to monitor a location that he or she is hired for in order to keep intruders away.

Some of the daily job responsibilities 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 South Carolina
• Work well alone but also in a team
• English language skills

Required Training for Security Guards in South Carolina

In South Carolina, the state regulates the security guard registration.

You will need to first train in a course, after which you can start your career.

Many security guards choose to attend a short course, but you can opt for a higher degree.

In that case, you will need to study for about 2 years for an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.

Some topics you will study during the theory part include:

• Legal Issues
• The security guard in South Carolina
• Patrol procedures
• Emergency response
• Communications
• Deportment
• Taking notes and writing reports

To qualify for work as a security guard, you need to train for at least 4 hours.

You should also be clear or any felonies, addictions, or mental illness.

The basic program you train in should be approved by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED).

Additionally, you will also have to take 2 hours of orientation, while supervised by an instructor.

The instructor also needs to be approved by the board.

Becoming an Armed Guard in South Carolina

If you want to practice as an armed security guard, you need to be at least 21 years old.

You will also have to attend training in the following subjects:

• Legal limitations
• Handgun safety
• Handgun maintenance
• Handgun fundamentals
• Night firing

Displaying the following character traits will also be helpful:

• Honesty
• Fair treatment of other people
• Good character
• Public trust
• Respect for laws

In this state, a security guard can also make arrests if he or she has 4 hours of additional training in issues and procedures.

Applying for a Security Guard Certification in South Carolina

The requirements needed to work in this state include:

• Be 18 years of age
• Pass a drug test, which is required by most employers
• A background check which may include your driving experience
• A high-school diploma
• EMT certification
• Training diploma signed by your supervisor
• Paying the registration fee of $65
  • Or $110 for armed guards
• Passing a background check

Becoming a Proprietor and Chief Executive Officer

To start a security business and work for yourself, you need to comply with some rules.

These are:

• Being at least 18 years old
• Be an American citizen
• Having a good character
• Not having an addiction
• Having a clean background record
• Not having a mental illness
• Having liability insurance
• 2 years of experience in the industry, if you are the head of a company

Applying for a Proprietor or Chief Executive Officer License

First of all, you need to submit the required paperwork.

You also need to send fingerprint cards and a DD-214 if you have military experience.

You will then need to submit a $10,000 bond.

The last requirement is the submission of 2 digital photos.

Salaries for Security Guards in South Carolina

Entry-level security guards in South Carolina earn the minimum salary.

After you get more experienced, you will be able to earn a higher salary.

The best job opportunities for security guards in South Carolina are to be found in larger cities.

Regional Salary in South Carolina

Those who run a security company or work for themselves have better job prospects.

Additional Information

Those who need to learn more about the licensing process or the industry can reach out to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.

As the laws and regulations keep changing, this is also the place to keep in touch with any updates.

The most important part of starting a successful career is to train.

Once you find a suitable program, you can complete your training fast and start working.

Security Guard License by State