Best Security Guard Training In Tennessee

Choosing the best security guard training in Tennessee is essential if you want to excel in the field. I’ve seen firsthand how the right program can make all the difference.

You might be wondering what it takes to become a licensed security guard and which training options are worth your time and money. I’ve put together a comprehensive guide to navigate this crucial career step effectively.

Here’s a sneak peek:

• Detailed insights into the best security guard training in Tennessee
• Key requirements to becoming a security guard in the state
• Top schools and programs that stand out

What Are the Requirements to Become a Security Guard in Tennessee?

Becoming a security guard in Tennessee has specific requirements that you need to meet. These requirements help ensure you’re well-prepared for the duties and responsibilities of a security guard.

Basic Requirements

To get started, you must meet several basic criteria:

• Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to qualify for an unarmed security guard position. However, if you are looking to become an armed security guard, you need to be at least 21 years old.
• Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or a resident alien with proper documentation.
• Education: While there’s no strict educational requirement, having at least a high school diploma or GED is advantageous.

Background Check

Security guards need to ensure public safety and therefore must undergo a criminal background check. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the profession.

• No Felony Convictions: You must not have any felony convictions in the past 5 years. Certain misdemeanor convictions related to violence or dishonesty could also disqualify you.

State-Approved Training

In Tennessee, the state mandates that you complete approved training programs. These programs ensure that you are well-versed in essential areas.

• Orientation: This covers the basics of your role and responsibilities as a security guard.
• Legal Powers and Limitations: You need to understand what actions you can legally take while performing your duties.
• Emergency Procedures: Training on how to handle various emergencies, including fires, medical issues, and security breaches.
• General Duties: Instruction on day-to-day tasks like patrolling, observation, and reporting.

Application Fees

There are fees associated with becoming a security guard:

• Initial Application Fee: $105 for the initial application.
• Additional Fees: There might be extra costs for fingerprinting and license renewals.

You can find more details on the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance website.

How to Choose the Best Security Guard Training Program?

Choosing the right security guard training program is a crucial step toward your career in security. Here are some key criteria to help you select the best program in Tennessee.

Accreditation

First and foremost, ensure the program is state-accredited. This guarantees the training meets Tennessee’s legal requirements.

Comprehensive Curriculum

A robust training program should cover all necessary subjects to prepare you for the job.

• Ethics: Knowing how to act with integrity and honesty.
• Legal Guidelines: Understanding what you can and cannot do legally.
• Emergency Procedures: Being prepared to manage various types of emergencies.
• Physical Defense: Learning self-defense and restraint techniques.

Experienced Instructors

Check the qualifications of the program’s instructors. Ideally, they should have backgrounds in law enforcement or the military, bringing real-world experience to your training.

Student Testimonials

Reviews and testimonials from previous students can provide insight into the program’s effectiveness. Look for programs with high satisfaction rates and positive feedback.

Job Placement Assistance

Programs that offer job placement assistance can help you transition from training to employment. This feature can be highly beneficial, especially if you are new to the field.

Example: Alliance Training & Testing

One highly recommended program is Alliance Training & Testing. They offer a 100% online unarmed security guard training program.

• Cost: $60
• Duration: 4.5 hours
• Flexibility: 24/7 access to training materials
• Job Placement: Assistance provided

Top Security Guard Training Schools in Tennessee

Several training schools in Tennessee stand out for their quality and comprehensive programs. Here are some of the best-rated options:

Alliance Training & Testing

Alliance Training & Testing is highly reputable for its online courses.

Key Features:

• Fully Online Course: Complete your training without having to attend in-person classes.
• Cost: $60 for a 4.5-hour course.
• Flexibility: Access the course materials anytime, anywhere.
• Job Placement: They offer job placement assistance after you complete your training.

Defencify

Defencify is another excellent option for online training.

Key Features:

• State-Approved: The course is fully approved by the state of Tennessee.
• Convenience: Complete training in a day if needed.

Other Noteworthy Programs

Several other programs offer specialized training in various areas:

• Security Guard Essentials Bundle: Priced at $99.99, this bundle includes three courses focusing on fundamental skills, ethics, and unconscious bias training.
• Active Shooter Preparedness Training: These courses are tailored to different levels of security personnel, with prices ranging from $29.95 to $39.95.

What Will You Learn in a Security Guard Training Program?

Training to become a security guard involves a variety of subjects designed to prepare you for your duties. Here’s what you will typically learn:

Core Topics

Power to Arrest: Understand arrest and detainment techniques.

• Legal Guidelines: Learn the legal powers and limitations of a security officer.
• Emergency Response: Training covers emergency procedures like fire drills, medical issues, and security breaches.
• Customer Service: Develop skills for interacting with the public and handling difficult situations.
• Observation and Reporting: Learn how to observe, document, and report incidents accurately.
• Physical Defense: Instruction on physical defense techniques, including the use of force and firearms handling (for armed guards).

Practical Skills

The training includes hands-on practical exercises to hone your skills. You will engage in scenarios that mimic real-life situations, teaching you how to react appropriately.

Programs like Alliance Training & Testing and Defencify cover these essential areas comprehensively through structured modules, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your role.

How Long Does Security Guard Training Take?

The duration of security guard training programs can vary depending on whether you are pursuing training for an unarmed or armed position.

Unarmed Guard Training

Typically, unarmed guard training in Tennessee is a 4-hour program. This concise curriculum focuses on the essential skills and knowledge needed to perform basic security duties.

Example: Alliance Training & Testing

• Duration: 4.5 hours
• Format: Online, allowing flexible completion according to your schedule.

Armed Guard Training

Armed security guard training requires additional instruction. In total, expect to undergo at least 12 hours of training.

Breakdown:

• Classroom Training: 8 hours covering theoretical knowledge.
• Marksmanship Training: 4 hours focusing on firearm handling and shooting accuracy.

These extra hours ensure that you are proficient in using firearms responsibly and effectively.

To find more information regarding specific training durations, visit the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance website.

How Much Does Security Guard Training Cost?

When considering the best security guard training in Tennessee, it’s essential to understand the cost implications. The costs can vary depending on the type of security guard position you’re training for and the provider you choose.

Unarmed Security Guard Training Costs

For unarmed security guard training, you’ll typically face a combination of training and administrative fees.

• Training Program Fees: Most reputable training programs charge around $70 for a 4-hour course. For example, Alliance Training & Testing offers their 4.5-hour online course for $60, making it an affordable option.
• Fingerprinting Fees: The cost for electronic fingerprinting is approximately $35.15.
• Application Fees: The initial application fee is $70. You’ll need to pay this fee to submit your application to the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance.

Total Estimated Cost: These combined fees bring the total cost to approximately $158.

Armed Security Guard Training Costs

Armed security guard training involves additional training hours and costs.

• Additional Training Fees: The training for an armed security guard typically costs between $200 and $300. This includes 8 hours of classroom instruction and 4 hours of marksmanship training.
• Additional Administrative Fees: Alongside training fees, you will also need to pay for the licensing and application processes, similar to the unarmed training but generally at higher rates due to the increased responsibility.

Total Estimated Cost: Depending on the provider and specific requirements, expect to pay between $200 and $300 total.

Financial Aid and Payment Plans

Many training programs offer financial aid options or payment plans to make the courses more accessible. For instance, some programs bundle courses for a discounted price, such as the Security Guard Essentials Bundle, saving you around 30% compared to purchasing courses individually.

What Are the Certification and Licensing Requirements After Training?

To work as a security guard in Tennessee, you must complete a series of steps to obtain your official certification and license.

Certification Process

Once you complete your training, you will need to pass a final training examination. For instance, Alliance Training & Testing administers a 50-question final exam to assess your understanding and readiness.

Licensing Steps

To obtain your security guard license, you’ll need to follow these steps:

1. Submit Application: You’ll need to submit an application that includes your certificate of completion from an accredited training program.
2. Fingerprinting: Provide electronic fingerprints as part of the background check process.
3. Photographs: Include recent photographs with your application.
4. Review and Approval: The Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance will review your application. Ensure your record is free of disqualifying criminal convictions.

License Renewal

Security guard licenses in Tennessee are renewed biannually. Part of the renewal process includes completing 4 additional hours of refresher training to keep your skills and knowledge up to date.

Job Prospects and Salaries for Security Guards in Tennessee

Understanding the job market and potential earnings can help you make an informed decision about pursuing a career as a security guard.

Average Salary

Security guards in Tennessee earn competitive wages. On average, security guards make around $31,200 annually, which translates to approximately $15 per hour. Entry-level positions start around $27,300 per year, while more experienced guards can earn up to $37,440 annually.

Job Market Growth

The demand for security guards in Tennessee is growing. Factors such as increased public events, corporate expansions, and heightened security needs in various sectors have led to more job opportunities.

Potential Employers

Security guards in Tennessee have a range of potential employers:

• Private Security Firms: Many security guards find employment with private firms that provide services to various industries.
• Schools and Universities: Educational institutions often require security personnel to ensure the safety of students and staff.
• Hospitals: Healthcare facilities prioritize security to protect patients and medical staff.
• Government Buildings: Security guards are also essential in maintaining the safety of public government facilities.

Programs like Alliance Training & Testing also offer job placement assistance, which can be beneficial in finding your first security position.

Tips for Successfully Completing Security Guard Training

Completion of your security guard training with excellence not only prepares you for your career but can also present you as a more attractive candidate to potential employers.

Study Tips

• Engage with Training Materials: Dive into the videos, pamphlets, and quizzes provided in your course. Fully engaging with these resources will help reinforce your learning.
• Regular Quizzes: Periodically test your understanding with quizzes to track your progress and identify areas needing improvement.
• Interactive Learning: Many courses, like those offered by both Alliance Training & Testing and Defencify, utilize interactive engagement strategies to enhance your learning experience.

Fitness and Professionalism

• Stay Fit: Maintaining physical fitness can help you perform your duties more effectively, especially in positions that require physical defense.
• Professional Appearance: A professional demeanor and appearance are crucial. They convey trust and competency to the people you protect.

Hands-On Practice

Get as much practical, hands-on experience as possible. Shadow experienced officers during your on-the-job training segments to gain insights into how theoretical knowledge is applied in real-world scenarios.

Looking for Security Guard Training Information On States Bordering Tennessee?

In addition to Tennessee, we suggest looking for training in nearby states.

• Best Security Guard Training In Kentucky
• Best Security Guard Training In Virginia
• Best Security Guard Training In North Carolina
• Best Security Guard Training In Georgia
• Best Security Guard Training In Alabama

Conclusion

In summary, embarking on a career as a security guard in Tennessee involves selecting the best training program, understanding the associated costs, meeting certification and licensing requirements, and navigating the job market.

Whether you choose programs like Alliance Training & Testing for their flexibility and job placement assistance or other reputable courses, being well-prepared through accredited training will set you up for success. Take the first step towards a rewarding career by enrolling in a top-notch security guard training program today. Consider starting with the Alliance Training & Testing to kickstart your journey.