Security Guard (FL Licensed) Careers in Florida
Security guards protect property and people from theft, vandalism, and unauthorized access, monitoring facilities and responding to incidents. Florida's 91,000+ employed security guards make it one of the nation's largest state markets, driven by theme parks, seaports, hospitals, and a high volume of special events. Armed security officers with Class G licenses earn a premium above base wages.
What does a Security Guard (FL Licensed) do in Florida?
Security guards protect property and people from theft, vandalism, and unauthorized access, monitoring facilities and responding to incidents. Florida's 91,000+ employed security guards make it one of the nation's largest state markets, driven by theme parks, seaports, hospitals, and a high volume of special events. Armed security officers with Class G licenses earn a premium above base wages.
Typical Florida work setting: Commercial properties|Events|Hospitals|Schools|Airports|Retail|Gated communities.
Florida salary and job outlook
Estimated Florida median pay for Security Guard (FL Licensed) is approximately $33,890 per year. Entry-level Florida pay typically starts near $28,210, with experienced workers earning around $44,290.
Florida’s projected growth for this occupation is approximately 8% through the next decade — in line with broader state and national workforce trends.
Estimated figures based on publicly reported Florida and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Actual pay varies by employer, metro area, experience, and credentials.
How to become a Security Guard (FL Licensed) in Florida
- 1. Choose an accredited Florida programLook for a Florida program that prepares you for the Class D Security Officer License (unarmed): 40-hr training + background check; Class G Statewide Firearms License (armed): additional 28-hr firearms training required to work as a Security Guard (FL Licensed). Public technical colleges and state colleges are typically the lowest-cost option; private career schools tend to cost more but may finish faster.
- 2. Complete the trainingMost Florida Security Guard (FL Licensed) programs take about Class D: 40-hour training (can complete in 1 week). Plan around your work and family schedule — many programs offer day, evening, or hybrid options.
- 3. Pass the Florida licensing examWorking as a Security Guard (FL Licensed) in Florida requires a state license issued through FL Dept. of Agriculture & Consumer Services (FDACS) — Division of Licensing. You’ll typically need to pass a national or state exam after completing an approved program.
- 4. Apply for Florida jobsHospitals, clinics, employers, and staffing agencies across Florida hire newly licensed Security Guard (FL Licensed)s every month. Use our Florida school directory to find programs with strong job-placement support.
Requirements & Training
- Credential: Class D Security Officer License (unarmed): 40-hr training + background check; Class G Statewide Firearms License (armed): additional 28-hr firearms training
- Typical program length: Class D: 40-hour training (can complete in 1 week)
- Typical tuition range: $150 - $600
- Florida license required: Yes (FL Dept. of Agriculture & Consumer Services (FDACS) — Division of Licensing)
Career Path
- Security Guard
- Senior Guard
- Shift Supervisor
- Security Manager
- Security Director
Top Florida Employers
Related Programs to Look For
- Security Guard Training Certificate
- Criminal Justice AS
- Loss Prevention Certificate
Florida Security Guard (FL Licensed) FAQs
Do I need a Florida license to work as a Security Guard (FL Licensed)?
Yes. Florida requires state licensure for Security Guard (FL Licensed)s, administered through FL Dept. of Agriculture & Consumer Services (FDACS) — Division of Licensing. You’ll generally need to graduate from an approved program and pass an exam before you can practice.
How long does it take to become a Security Guard (FL Licensed) in Florida?
Most Florida training programs for Security Guard (FL Licensed) take about Class D: 40-hour training (can complete in 1 week). Part-time, evening, and hybrid schedules can extend that timeline; accelerated programs may shorten it.
How much does Security Guard (FL Licensed) training cost in Florida?
Typical Florida programs run about $150 - $600. Public technical and state colleges are usually the lowest-cost route. Financial aid, employer reimbursement, and payment plans are widely available.
What is the average salary for a Security Guard (FL Licensed) in Florida?
Estimated Florida median pay for Security Guard (FL Licensed)s is about $33,890 per year. Entry-level pay is typically lower, and experienced workers in high-demand metros (Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville) can earn meaningfully more.
Where can I study to become a Security Guard (FL Licensed) in Florida?
Florida has hundreds of public technical colleges, state colleges, and private career schools that offer training relevant to Security Guard (FL Licensed). Use our Florida school directory to filter by region, cost, and accreditation.
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