Top 11 Doorman Certifications

Certifications are important for doormen in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and skill that employers are looking for. They can show that the applicant has been trained to perform certain duties and is knowledgeable about safety protocols. Certifications also demonstrate commitment to the profession and may give applicants an edge over other candidates who don’t have them. In addition, certifications can help doormen maintain their licenses, which may be necessary in some states or municipalities. Finally, certifications can help doormen obtain higher salaries or promotions within their current positions.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Doormen and explains how they can help to further a doorman's career.

What are Doorman Certifications?

Doorman certification is a professional training program designed to help security personnel become more effective and knowledgeable in their role as doormen. The program is developed to provide an understanding of the duties and responsibilities of a doorman, as well as a comprehensive overview of customer service principles and techniques. It teaches how to use body language, communication skills, and conflict resolution tactics to help create an environment of safety and respect.

The certification also covers topics such as managing customer expectations, how to recognize suspicious behavior, how to de-escalate potentially dangerous situations, and proper methods for dealing with intoxicated individuals. The program also provides insight into legal issues related to the role of a doorman.

By earning their certification, doormen can demonstrate that they have received specialized training in this area. This can help ensure that customers feel safe when entering or leaving a business or establishment. It can also give them confidence in the knowledge that the person at the door is knowledgeable about their job duties and has been trained on best practices for dealing with various situations. In addition, employers may be more likely to hire certified doormen because it shows that they have invested in employee development and are committed to providing quality service for their customers.

Pro Tip: When considering doorman certification, make sure to research the certification program thoroughly. Ask about any additional training requirements, as well as the cost and duration of the program. Additionally, inquire about the availability of online courses or workshops that can help you further your knowledge and skills in doorman certification.

Related: What does a Doorman do?

Top 11 Doorman Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Doormans today.

1. Certified Professional Doorman (CPD)

Certified Professional Doorman (CPD) is a certification program designed to recognize and reward the highest levels of skill, professionalism, and service in the doorman profession. The CPD certification is awarded by the International Door Association (IDA), an organization that promotes excellence in the door industry.

To become certified, individuals must complete a comprehensive training program that includes both classroom and hands-on instruction. The program covers topics such as customer service, safety and security protocols, communication skills, and problem solving. Upon completion of the program, applicants must pass an exam to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the material covered.

The CPD certification process takes approximately six months from start to finish. During this time, applicants are required to attend classes at least twice a week for four hours per day. Additionally, applicants must complete a minimum of 40 hours of on-the-job training in order to gain practical experience in their chosen field.

The cost of obtaining a CPD certification varies depending on the provider; however, most programs range from $500-$1000 USD. This cost typically covers tuition fees, books and materials needed for classwork, as well as any applicable testing fees associated with obtaining certification.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also meet certain criteria in order to be eligible for certification. These criteria include having at least one year of experience working as a doorman or related position within the past five years; being able to pass a criminal background check; having no prior convictions or disciplinary actions; and demonstrating good character traits such as honesty and integrity.

2. Certified Doorman Supervisor (CDS)

Certified Doorman Supervisor (CDS) is a certification program offered by the International Association of Certified Doorman Supervisors (IACDS). The program is designed to provide doormen and supervisors with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage their staff, as well as to ensure that all safety protocols are followed. It also provides them with an understanding of how to properly interact with customers, tenants, and visitors.

The CDS certification program consists of two parts: an online course and a practical exam. The online course covers topics such as customer service, security procedures, building maintenance, and communication skills. The practical exam tests participants’ ability to apply the knowledge they have gained from the online course.

The cost of the CDS certification varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs between $100-$200 for the online course and up to $500 for the practical exam. The time it takes to get certified depends on how quickly you can complete both parts of the program; typically, it takes around six months or more to become certified.

To get certified as a CDS, you must first complete the online course and then pass the practical exam with a score of 70% or higher. You will also need to submit proof that you have at least two years of experience in doorman supervision or related fields before taking the exam. Once you have passed both parts of the program, you will receive your certificate from IACDS which is valid for three years.

3. Certified Security Officer (CSO)

A Certified Security Officer (CSO) is a professional certification that verifies an individual’s knowledge and skills in the security industry. The certification is offered by the International Foundation for Protection Officers (IFPO), a non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of security professionals.

To become a CSO, individuals must meet certain requirements, such as having at least three years of experience in the security field, completing an approved training program, and passing an exam. The IFPO offers several different levels of certification, depending on the individual’s experience and qualifications.

The cost to become a CSO varies depending on the level of certification sought. For example, the basic level costs $125 USD while the advanced level costs $225 USD. Additionally, there are fees associated with taking the exam and renewing certifications every two years.

In total, it can take up to six months to complete all of the requirements necessary to earn a CSO certification. This includes completing any required training courses as well as studying for and passing the exam.

4. National Association of Professional Doormen (NAPD)

The National Association of Professional Doormen (NAPD) is a professional organization that provides certification and training for doormen. It is the only organization in the United States that offers such certification. The NAPD was founded in 1987, and it has been providing certification and training to doormen ever since.

In order to become certified by the NAPD, an individual must first complete an online application and submit it along with payment of the $75 non-refundable fee. After submitting the application, applicants will be required to take a written exam, which covers topics such as customer service, safety procedures, door access control systems, and other related topics. Once applicants have successfully passed the exam, they will receive their NAPD certification.

The NAPD certification is valid for two years from the date of issue. In order to maintain their certification status, individuals must renew their membership every two years by paying an annual fee of $50. Additionally, individuals are required to complete at least 16 hours of continuing education each year in order to keep their certification active.

Overall, obtaining a National Association of Professional Doormen (NAPD) certification requires completing an online application form and passing a written exam. The cost is $75 for the initial application fee plus an annual fee of $50 for renewal every two years.

5. International Association of Professional Door Supervisors (IAPDS)

The International Association of Professional Door Supervisors (IAPDS) is a professional body that provides qualifications and training for door supervisors in the UK. Door supervisors are responsible for ensuring the safety and security of premises, such as pubs, clubs, and other licensed venues.

In order to become an IAPDS certified door supervisor, individuals must complete a recognised qualification which includes both theoretical and practical elements. The qualification typically takes around four weeks to complete and covers topics such as health and safety, customer service, conflict resolution, licensing law, drug awareness, and more.

To get started on the IAPDS qualification process, individuals must first register with an approved training provider. These providers can be found on the IAPDS website or through a search online. Once registered with a provider, individuals will need to attend their training sessions in order to gain their certificate.

The cost of the IAPDS qualification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from £200-£400. This cost includes all course materials and assessments required to gain certification.

Once successfully completed, individuals will become certified by IAPDS and be able to work as a professional door supervisor in any licensed venue in the UK.

6. American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI)

American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) is a professional organization that provides training and certification programs for hospitality professionals. AHLEI offers a range of certifications, including Certified Guest Service Professional (CGSP), Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS), Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE), and Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA). The institute also provides online courses, workshops, conferences, and other resources to help hospitality professionals stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.

The length of time it takes to get AHLEI certification varies depending on the type of certification you are pursuing. Generally speaking, most AHLEI certifications can be completed within six months or less. To get an AHLEI certification, you must first complete the appropriate coursework and pass a final exam. You can find detailed information about each certification program on the AHLEI website.

The cost of an AHLEI certification varies depending on the type of certification you are pursuing. Most certifications cost between $100 and $300 USD, although some may be more expensive. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam or attending workshops or conferences related to the certification program.

Overall, American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute is a great resource for hospitality professionals looking to gain knowledge and credentials in their field. With its comprehensive training programs and affordable prices, AHLEI is an excellent choice for anyone looking to advance their career in hospitality management.

7. Hospitality Security Officer Certification Program (HSOCP)

The Hospitality Security Officer Certification Program (HSOCP) is a comprehensive program designed to provide hospitality security officers with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to protect guests, staff, and property in the hospitality industry. The program is offered by the International Association of Professional Security Officers (IAPSO) and consists of four courses: Introduction to Hospitality Security; Access Control; Emergency Response; and Investigations.

The program takes approximately 16 hours to complete and can be completed either online or in-person. Each course requires a passing score on an exam before moving onto the next course. The cost for the entire program is $149 USD.

To get certified through HSOCP, you must first register with IAPSO and then complete each of the four courses within one year. Upon successful completion of all four courses, you will receive your certification as a Hospitality Security Officer.

8. Advanced Hospitality Security Officer Certification Program (AHSOCP)

The Advanced Hospitality Security Officer Certification Program (AHSOCP) is a comprehensive training program designed to prepare security personnel for the hospitality industry. The program is offered by the International Association of Professional Security Officers (IAPSO). It consists of three levels: basic, intermediate, and advanced.

The Basic Level AHSOCP course provides an introduction to the hospitality industry and its security needs. It covers topics such as customer service, emergency procedures, risk assessment and management, and legal considerations. This level takes approximately 40 hours to complete and costs $250.

The Intermediate Level AHSOCP course focuses on more advanced topics such as threat assessment, crowd control, surveillance techniques, security systems design and implementation, access control systems, and physical security measures. This level takes approximately 80 hours to complete and costs $500.

The Advanced Level AHSOCP course covers specialized topics such as executive protection services, VIP protection services, event security planning, crisis management strategies and tactics, investigative techniques, and terrorism prevention strategies. This level takes approximately 120 hours to complete and costs $750.

To get certified in AHSOCP you must first register with IAPSO online or by mail-in form. Once registered you will receive a study guide which outlines all the requirements for each level of certification. After completing the required courses you will then take a written exam that tests your knowledge of the material covered in each course. Upon successful completion of this exam you will be awarded your certification from IAPSO.

9. Certified Building Concierge/Doorman (CBCD)

Certified Building Concierge/Doorman (CBCD) is a certification program designed to provide building concierges and doormen with the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful in their roles. The program is administered by the International Association of Professional Concierges (IAPC) and consists of a series of online courses, an exam, and a final assessment.

The program takes approximately 8-10 weeks to complete and includes topics such as customer service, safety and security, communication, problem solving, hospitality management, and more. The cost for the CBCD certification is $400 USD.

To get certified as a CBCD, applicants must first complete all of the required online courses. Once this is done, they must pass an exam which covers all of the material from the coursework. Finally, applicants must submit a final assessment which demonstrates their ability to apply what they have learned in real-world scenarios. After passing all three components of the program, applicants will receive their CBCD certification.

10. Building Security and Safety Certification Program (BSSCP)

The Building Security and Safety Certification Program (BSSCP) is a voluntary program designed to recognize buildings that meet or exceed security and safety standards. The program was developed by the International Code Council (ICC) in partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This program provides a comprehensive set of standards for building owners, operators, and designers to ensure that their structures are safe from potential threats.

The BSSCP requires buildings to meet or exceed certain criteria in order to be certified. These criteria include: fire safety, life safety, security systems, emergency preparedness plans, access control systems, and other measures designed to protect occupants from harm. The certification process also involves an on-site inspection by an ICC-certified inspector who will verify that all requirements have been met.

The length of time it takes to get BSSCP certification depends on the size and complexity of the building being inspected. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months for a building to be fully certified.

In order to get BSSCP certification, building owners must first contact an ICC-certified inspector who is qualified to perform the inspection. Once the inspector has been chosen, they will provide the owner with an application packet which must be completed and submitted along with any applicable fees. After this is done, the inspector will schedule an on-site visit where they will assess the building’s compliance with all relevant standards and regulations. If all requirements are met, then the building will receive its certification.

The cost of getting BSSCP certification varies depending on factors such as size of the building being inspected and location of inspection site. Generally speaking however, most inspections cost between $500 - $1000 USD per hour for small buildings up to $3000 - $5000 USD per hour for large structures.

11. International Council of Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Education’s Certified Doorperson Examination (ICHRIE-CDX).

The International Council of Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Education’s Certified Doorperson Examination (ICHRIE-CDX) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the doorperson profession. The ICHRIE-CDX is an online exam that tests knowledge and skills related to the duties of a professional doorperson. It covers topics such as customer service, safety and security procedures, hospitality operations, emergency response protocols, and hotel/restaurant management.

The ICHRIE-CDX exam takes approximately two hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. In order to be eligible for the examination, applicants must have at least one year of experience working as a professional doorperson or in a related field. Additionally, applicants must submit proof of their work experience along with their application.

The cost of the ICHRIE-CDX exam is $150 USD. Applicants can register for the exam online at the ICHRIE website or by mail using the registration form provided on the website. Once registered, applicants will receive an email confirming their registration and providing further instructions on how to access and complete the exam.

Upon successful completion of the ICHRIE-CDX exam, applicants will receive an official certificate from ICHRIE recognizing them as Certified Doorpersons. This certificate can be used to demonstrate expertise in this field and may be beneficial when applying for jobs or promotions within the hospitality industry.

Do You Really Need a Doorman Certificate?

No, you do not need a doorman certificate in order to work as a doorman. A doorman certificate is a document that proves that you have received formal training in the duties and responsibilities of a doorman. While some employers may require the certificate as part of the hiring process, it is not an absolute requirement for most positions.

The skills needed to be a successful doorman are typically learned on the job. A good candidate will possess excellent customer service skills, be able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and remain calm under pressure. Experience in security, hospitality or customer service can also be beneficial. Additionally, many employers prefer candidates who have completed some form of formal training such as first aid or CPR classes.

In lieu of a doorman certificate, potential employers may ask for references from previous employers or colleagues who can vouch for your abilities and qualifications. It is important to emphasize any relevant experience on your resume and in interviews so that employers can see that you are qualified for the position even without the certificate.

Having a valid doorman certificate may help you stand out from other applicants but it should never be seen as an absolute requirement when applying for these positions. Employers are more interested in finding someone with the right skillset and attitude than someone with just a piece of paper proving they have gone through certain courses or training programs.

Related: Doorman Resume Examples

FAQs About Doorman Certifications

Q1: What is a doorman certification?

A1: A doorman certification is an official recognition that certifies an individual has the necessary skills and qualifications to work as a professional doorman. The certification is offered by various organizations, including the International Association of Professional Door Supervisors.

Q2: How do I get certified as a doorman?

A2: To become certified as a doorman, you must successfully complete an approved training course or program. This typically includes courses in customer service, security protocols, crowd control, and other related topics. After completing the training, you must pass an exam to receive your certification.

Q3: What are the benefits of becoming a certified doorman?

A3: Being certified as a doorman can help you stand out from other applicants when looking for jobs in this field. It demonstrates to employers that you have the necessary skills and qualifications needed to perform the job effectively and safely. In addition, it may also be beneficial when applying for promotions or higher-paying positions within the industry.

Q4: How long does it take to get certified as a doorman?

A4: The amount of time it takes to become certified varies depending on the organization offering the training program and exam. Generally speaking, most programs can be completed within one month if studying full-time or up to three months if studying part-time.

Q5: How much does it cost to get certified as a doorman?

A5: The cost of becoming certified varies depending on which organization you choose for your training and exam. Generally speaking, most programs range from $200-$500 USD per person depending on factors such as location and length of program.