How to Become a Security Guard in Wisconsin

Those who want to be security guards in Wisconsin need to meet certain criteria.

If you want to know more, have a look at the article below.

Security Guard Job Description and Requirements

Security guards monitor and patrol their employer’s property, and alert law enforcement if there is any danger.

Some of the job duties you have to finish every day, 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.

Those 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 Wisconsin
• Work well alone but also in a team
• English language

Required Training for Security Guards in Wisconsin

The security guard licenses in Wisconsin are managed by the Department of Safety and Professional Services.

The department offers licenses for armed but also unarmed security guards.

Security guards who want to carry a firearm have to undergo additional training.

The training has to be supervised by a board accredited instructor and includes the following subjects:

• Basic security guard principles
• Legal power and limitations
• Accident prevention and safety
• Emergency response
• Report writing
• Basic security guard role
• Legal aspects

How to Become an Armed Security Guard in Wisconsin

Armed security guards have to be 21 years of age.

The training program you attend should include the following topics:

• Safety rules, dangers, and firearm cleaning Care, handling, and usage
• Legal use of firearms
• Moral and ethical issues
• Lawful detentions
• Criminal and civil liability
• Wisconsin law

For this position, you need to attend a program that is at least 36 hours.

Out of these, 30 hours can be counted if you have experience in gun carrying over the past 5 years.

However, you will still have to study Wisconsin law and take6 hours of extra education.

Your instructor will also need to sign a certification of proficiency, which is valid for one year.

You can also get a temporary permit while waiting for registration, but it does not apply for armed positions.

How to Apply for a Security Guard Certification in Wisconsin

To apply for a security guard license, you need:

• To be at least 18 years of age
• Pass a drug test
• A background check
  • The fingerprints fee is $39.25
• A high-school diploma or GED
• EMT certification
• The training diploma signed by your supervisor
• The registration fee of $75

If you spent time in jail, you will need to provide more details and paperwork to justify it.

You should also not have any addictions to alcohol or illegal substances.

Some employers might ask you to bring reference letters that showcase your good character.

If you opt to get a temporary permit, you need to pay an $18 fee in total.

After you receive your security guard license, you will need to get it renewed once in 2 years.

Becoming a Sole Proprietor

If you get a sole proprietor license, you will be able to create your own business.

You can work alone or have other people employed.

To be able to apply, you need to submit documents for the following:

• Age of 21
• Being an American citizen or a resident alien
• Having a good character
• Not have any addiction
• Having a clean background record
• Not have any mental illness
• Proof of liability insurance of $100,000
• Firearm policy

You will also have to pay a registering fee totaling $75.

The sole proprietor license has to be renewed once in 24 months when the years are odd.

Salaries Earned by Security Guards in Wisconsin

Working as a security guard in Wisconsin can be financially rewarding.

The metropolitan areas of the state offer a higher pay compared to the smaller ones.

Regional Salary in Wisconsin

Security guards who have some experience are also able to earn a higher salary.

This is also the case for security guards who start their own business or have a higher degree.

An associate’s or bachelor’s degree will bring increased career opportunities.

Additional Information

As the industry rules and regulations are constantly changing, you might need to keep up with the updates.

For that, you can check out the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services.

Keep in mind that the first step you need to take is to train for your license.

After you get the certification, you can start applying for a position with your favorite agency.

Security Guard License by State