Florida Security Guard License: Class D and Class G Requirements
Florida requires Class D for unarmed guards and Class G for armed guards. This guide covers the Division of Licensing application, training, and renewal process.
Florida licenses security guards through the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Licensing. The two main license types are Class D (unarmed) and Class G (armed).
Florida requires Class D (40 hours training) for unarmed guards and Class G (28 hours additional) for armed. Both renew every 2 years with annual range requalification for armed guards.
Class D License (Unarmed)
Required for all unarmed security work in Florida.
Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old
- Complete 40 hours of professional training
- Pass background check
- Submit fingerprints
- No disqualifying criminal history
Training Requirements
The 40-hour Class D course includes:
- Legal aspects of security (8 hours)
- Observation and documentation (6 hours)
- Principles of communication (4 hours)
- Emergency response (4 hours)
- Patrol procedures (8 hours)
- Ethics and conduct (4 hours)
- Additional topics (6 hours)
Class G License (Armed)
Required in addition to Class D for carrying firearms on duty.
Requirements
- Valid Class D license
- Be at least 21 years old
- Complete 28 hours of firearms training
- Pass range qualification
- Additional background screening
Firearms Training
The 28-hour course covers:
- Legal aspects of firearm use (8 hours)
- Use of force and de-escalation (4 hours)
- Weapons handling and safety (8 hours)
- Range qualification (8 hours)
Statewide Firearm License
Guards can add a statewide firearm endorsement allowing them to carry across Florida regardless of employer. Requires Class G plus additional qualification.
Renewal Requirements
- Class D: Renew every 2 years
- Class G: Renew every 2 years with requalification
- Annual range requalification required for Class G
Background Check Disqualifiers
Florida specifically prohibits licensing for:
- Felony convictions (with limited exceptions)
- Certain misdemeanor convictions
- Drug-related offenses
- Domestic violence convictions
- Mental health adjudications (for Class G)
Employer Obligations
- Verify licenses before assignment
- Maintain personnel records
- Ensure annual requalification for armed guards
- Report terminations to the Division
Florida specifically prohibits licensing for felonies, drug offenses, domestic violence, and mental health adjudications (for Class G).
Key Takeaways
- Class D (unarmed) requires 40 hours of training
- Class G (armed) adds 28 hours including range qualification
- Both classes renew every 2 years
- Statewide firearm endorsement available for multi-employer work
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