If you want to be a part of the security team or need professional protection, learning about Class G license is imperative. This unique license legally enables security professionals to carry a firearm at their place of work, affording expanded duties and employment opportunities in the security field. This post will help you understand what a Class G license is, how to get it, and why it’s important for security guards, especially in states like Florida.

What Is a Class G License?

A Class G license permits armed security guards. While the basic Class D unarmed security license does not authorize a person to carry a firearm, armed guards with the Class G license can work in higher-risk protection positions. If you are involved in executive protection, armored transport or carrying a gun on armed patrols a this license is fundamental.

What do you need to get a Class G License

There are a few requirements that applicants need to fulfill in order avail the Class G license:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a citizen or resident of the U.S.
• Possess a Class D or Class C license (unarmed licensee or private investigator)
• Submit to a comprehensive criminal history check
• 20 to 24 hours of state-approved firearms training.
• Able to pass firearms proficiency test.

Key Responsibilities of Class G License Holders

Armed security guards with Class G License Houlders must acquire a higher level license to prove that they have received the necessary training and education. Here is a summary of the main duties Class G licenseholders are expected to meet in order for them to carry on their day-to-day roles in an effective and lawful way:

Expert Firearm Management

Class G security personnel receive hands-on training in firearm safety and marksmanship. They’re directly responsible for managing, storing, and using weapons in accordance with security regulations to keep themselves, the public and their clients safe.

Legal Compliance and Use of Force

Knowing and following Florida’s use of force laws is vital. G licensees need to know when and how to use force lawfully, in order that their actions are both justified and defensible.

Threat Detection and Assessment

These armed security guards are well trained and can rapidly identify if a threat or suspicious activity exists. This comes with training in de-escalation as well as in responding defensively to meet and neutralize threats.

Emergency and Crisis Response

It is our goal to provide an extremely effective individual who, in the event of a life-threatening situation including but not limited to violent activity, can maintain composure and decide expeditiously what must be done to preserve lives, eliminate or curtail potential threats and restore normalcy.

Visible Deterrence and Protection

The presence of armed guards is a very effective crime deterrent. Beyond reacting to threats, they offer peace of mind and confidence to their customers, workers and the public.

The Differences Between Class D and Class G Licenses

In Florida, the Class D and Class G licenses establish which type of security work you can do unarmed or armed. It’s essential that anyone looking to work in security understand the important distinctions.

Summary

Class D License: This license is for unarmed security guards. Requires 40 hours of initial training, which covers the basics of security, laws and emergency procedures.

Class G License (Armed): For security personnel who are permitted to hold a weapon. Requires Class D license plus 28 additional hours of specific firearms training and live fire exercise.

Both licences are for 2 years, after which they have to be renewed along with updated lessons and background checks to make sure of continuous compliance and professionalism.

How to Obtain a Class G Security License

Acquiring Class G Security License in Florida is an easy process but has some requirements which you have to meet, complete the necessary training and pass the examination. The Class G license allows armed security guards to carry guns and serve in an armed security capacity.

Meet Eligibility Requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be a U.S. citizen (or permanent legal resident).
• Pass an extensive background screening with no felony convictions.

Hold a Preliminary License:

• Valid Class D (unarmed security guard) or Class C(Private Investigator) license must be obtained prior to applying for the Class G.

Complete Required Training:

• Completion of 28 hours of range and classroom time training at a security school licensed by Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS).
• Training includes in-classroom hours, with instruction on firearms safety, legal responsibilities, use of force and emergency response to conflict resolution.
• Live fire range qualification with practical exercises to show firearm competency.

Pass the Final Assessments:

• Pass a written test on state handgun laws and the station’s policies for handling firearms.
• Successfully fire a live-fire firearms qualification on authorized weapons (i.e., Glock 17 9mm is often selected).

Submit License Application:

• Submit proof of trained and background check to FDACS.
• Submit to the payment of application fees, which may include processing and fingerprinting costs.

Receive Your License:

• Once you are approved, you will be issued with the Class G license which makes you eligible to seek employment as an armed security guard in Florida.

Maintain and Renew License:

• Successfully pass annual firearims recertification courses (4 hr required).
• Compliance will mean you must renew the license every 2 years.

Duration and Costs

Training Length: Approximately 20 hours online/class + 8 hours range time.

Training Cost: $100 to $300, depending on the provider (some offer bundled Class D and G courses).

Others Charges: Application costs approximately $45-$75, fingerprinting costs $40-$60 and Range fees.

By following these steps and getting the required training, security officers can take their careers to the next level by earning the Class G license, which will allow you to offer armed security legally and safely in Florida.

Job Roles for Class G Security License Holders

The G security license being permitted to carry a firearm on the job brings them into positions that are held with greater trust and more responsibility than other un-armed guards.

Armed Security Guard: Provides armed protection for commercial sites, construction site s, residential properties and specia l events.

Executive Protection Officer: Close personal protection for VIPs and company executives.

Armored Car: Safely move money and valuable from one venue to another.

High Risk Property Protection: Protect factories, warehouses and sensitive installations.

Loss Prevention Specialist: Detain and investigate for theft either in retail or warehouse.

Event Security: Direct safety and crowd control at big events.

Is a Class G License Right for You?

Deciding to get a class G security license in Florida is an important choice that can help open doors for the future in this competitive industry. This license permits you to work as an armed guard, meaning you are expected to commit to vigorous training, excellent judgment with potentially high stakes, and a history of careful behavior in tense situations.

Deciding to become an armed security officer is more than obtaining a firearm; it’s about grasping the legal and moral implications of situations that will determine if and how you use them. You must be physically and mentally prepared to respond calmly under pressure, as your actions can have serious consequences. 

However, this path is not suitable for everyone. If you are not very comfortable around firearms or would rather explore relatively safer positions of the security industry, for example unarmed class d license. The Grade G of driver license must keep it up-to-date with continuous education and comply with strict rules, so safety-consciousness and a sense of responsibility are necessary.

If you are ready to advance your career in security and perform armed duty, securing a Class G license is both exciting and an enriching experience. When you need the best advice, the best training and licensed armed security services — call Security in Florida. We are committed to you reaching your goal of receiving your Class G license and progressing in a security career.

Conclusion

The Class G license is designated for those professionals who want to further their career as a security guard to include the added benefit of carrying a weapon. It demands extensive training and a commitment to safety, law & professionalism.If you are interested, Security in Florida provides professional training and assistance to ensure that you get your Class G License and progress into a rewarding security career!

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