How to Become a Security Guard in Vermont

In Vermont, being a security guard can bring a successful and stable career.

If this is your calling, all you have to do is read this guide for more info about training and finding a job.

Security Guard Job Description and Requirements

A security guard is hired to monitor a property in order to keep it safe against intruders.

Security guards have many daily responsibilities, which 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

Many security guards also have the following skills:

• 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 Vermont
• Work well alone but also in a team
• English language skills

Required Training for Security Guards in Vermont

In Vermont, security guards register through the Vermont Board of Private Investigative and Security Services.

You can choose to carry an arm or not, and armed guards require more training.

No matter what type of position you choose, you will still need to take some hours of training.

The training should be completed through an accredited program and a certified instructor.

You can also pursue a university degree, such as a bachelor’s or associate’s degree.

This will require you to study for about 2 years, but it will also provide increased job opportunities.

Training programs feature theory as well as practice, for a total of 40 hours.

These feature the following subjects:

• Role of security guards – 2 hours
• Legal powers and limitations – 4 hours
• Ethics and conduct (including Board rules) – 4 hours
• Patrolling and investigation – 4 hours
• Communication and public relations – 4 hours
• Observation and note taking – 4 hours
• Emergency response – 8 hours
• Access control – 2 hours
• Evidence – 2 hours
• Statements – 2 hours
• Report writing – 4 hours

You will have to take an exam when the class is finished.

There are circumstances when some candidates might not need to take the exam.

This is possible if the candidate has a lot of experience in the field, working in law enforcement or the military.

After you get a license, you need to get it renewed once in 2 years.

Registering as a Temporary Security Guard

If you are waiting for the results of your background check, you can get a temporary work permit.

To get it, you have to train for 8 hours in the following subjects:

• Security guard role – 2 hours
• Legal powers and limitations – 3 hours
• Ethics – 3 hours

Becoming an Armed Security Guard in Vermont

To get this permit, you have to attend 12 hours of training in the subjects below:

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

Your training should be completed under the supervision of a board accredited instructor.

You will also have to pas a shooting exam.

This permit should be renewed every year and needs 6 extra hours of training.

Applying for a Security Guard Certification in Vermont

Your application should include paperwork for the following:

• At least 18 years of age
• Pass a drug test, which is required by most employers
• A background check which may include your driving experience
  • Includes paying the $25 fingerprints fee
• A high-school diploma
• EMT certification
• Training diploma signed by your supervisor
• Paying the appropriate registration fee, depending on the certification:
  • $120 for commissioned guards,
  • $60 for non-commissioned guards,
  • $200 for qualifying agents

If you are not a US resident, you need to show proof of a work visa or permit.

Becoming a Qualifying Agent

This position allows you to run an agency, and you can either work alone or have your own employees.

The requirements for this position are:

• Being at least 18 years old
• Be an American citizen
• Having a good character
• Not have any addiction
• Have a clean background record
• Not have any mental illness
• Having or getting liability insurance
• 2 years of experience and 2,000 hours

To get this license, you also need to take and pass an exam.

This certification has to be renewed once in 2 years.

Salaries for Security Guards in Vermont

The salaries for security guards in Vermont depend on whether you have enough experience.

After you get enough experience, your salary expectations can also increase.

In Vermont, larger regions offer better salaries compared to rural areas.

Regional Salary in Vermont

Additional Information

In order to keep up to date with the industry changes, you can reach out to the Board of Private Investigative and Security Service.

Security Guard License by State