Top 11 Guard Certifications

Certifications are important for security guards in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge, experience, and training that employers look for when hiring. Certifications can provide a competitive edge over other candidates who do not have them. They also show employers that the guard is knowledgeable about the responsibilities of their job, as well as any laws or regulations associated with it. Additionally, certifications can give guards access to higher-paying positions and more opportunities for career advancement.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Guards and explains how they can help to advance a guard's career.

What are Guard Certifications?

Guard certification is a process of verifying that an individual meets the minimum qualifications to serve as a security guard. This process usually includes background checks, training, and other forms of assessment. Guard certification is important because it ensures that security guards are properly trained and qualified to perform their duties. It also helps ensure that they are reliable and trustworthy individuals who can be trusted with protecting people, property, and information. By certifying guards, companies can reduce their liability in the event of an incident or wrongdoing by a guard. Additionally, certified guards are more likely to be taken seriously by potential customers or clients since they have been verified as having the necessary skills and knowledge for the job.

Pro Tip: Be sure to research the requirements for guard certification in your area. Many states and localities have different regulations and mandates for becoming a certified security guard, so it's important to make sure that you are meeting all of the necessary requirements before beginning the process.

Related: What does a Guard do?

Top 11 Guard Certifications

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

1. Certified Protection Professional (CPP)

Certified Protection Professional (CPP) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS). It is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in security management and leadership. The CPP designation is held by more than 10,000 security professionals in over 80 countries.

To become certified as a CPP, individuals must meet certain educational and experience requirements, pass a comprehensive exam, and adhere to the ASIS Code of Ethics. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as physical security, personnel security, emergency preparedness, investigations and more.

The process to obtain the CPP designation typically takes between three to six months depending on the individual’s experience level. To get started, individuals must first apply for membership with ASIS International and pay the associated fees. After becoming a member of ASIS International, applicants must then register for the CPP Exam and submit their application materials to ASIS International for review. Once approved, applicants will receive instructions on how to schedule their exam date.

The cost of obtaining the CPP designation varies depending on whether you are an ASIS International member or non-member. For members, it costs $450 USD to take the exam while non-members pay $675 USD. In addition to this fee there are also additional costs associated with study materials and preparation courses which can range from $100-$500 USD depending on what resources you choose to use.

2. Certified Security Supervisor (CSS)

Certified Security Supervisor (CSS) is a certification program that provides security supervisors with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage their staff and ensure the safety of their organization. The program is designed to provide security professionals with the tools they need to lead their teams in a secure environment.

The CSS certification program typically takes between 6-12 months to complete, depending on the individual’s experience level. The program consists of three levels: Level 1 – Introduction to Security Supervision; Level 2 – Advanced Security Supervision; and Level 3 – Professional Security Supervision. Each level requires completion of a series of courses, including topics such as security operations, risk assessment, emergency management, and legal issues related to security operations.

Individuals can become certified by taking an online or in-person course from an accredited provider. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider and length of the course. Generally, prices range from $200-$1000 USD for a full certification package.

Once individuals have completed all three levels of the CSS certification program, they must pass an exam administered by an accredited third party testing center in order to receive their official certification. Upon successful completion of this exam, individuals will receive a certificate indicating that they are now officially certified as a Certified Security Supervisor (CSS).

3. Certified Healthcare Protection Administrator (CHPA)

Certified Healthcare Protection Administrator (CHPA) is a certification program designed to provide healthcare security professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect their organization’s assets, personnel, and patients. The CHPA certification program is offered by the International Association for Healthcare Security & Safety (IAHSS).

The CHPA certification requires successful completion of an online exam that covers topics such as risk assessment, emergency preparedness, access control systems, physical security measures, and other related topics. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within two hours.

In order to qualify to take the exam, applicants must have at least three years of full-time experience in healthcare security or a related field. Applicants must also submit proof of current employment in a healthcare setting and complete an application form.

The cost of the CHPA certification exam is $395 USD for non-IAHSS members and $295 USD for IAHSS members. After successfully completing the exam, applicants will receive their certification within four weeks.

4. Certified Physical Security Professional (CPSP)

Certified Physical Security Professional (CPSP) is a certification program offered by the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS International). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in physical security. The CPSP designation is intended to demonstrate that an individual has advanced knowledge and experience in the field of physical security.

The CPSP certification requires applicants to pass an exam, which covers topics such as access control, surveillance systems, alarm systems, locks and keys, lighting, environmental design, security management systems, and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and is administered by ASIS International.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the exam. Applicants should review the study materials provided by ASIS International and take practice exams prior to taking the actual test. Additionally, applicants should have at least five years of professional experience in physical security or a related field in order to qualify for the certification.

The cost of obtaining the CPSP certification varies depending on whether or not you are an ASIS member. For non-members, it costs $495 USD; for members it costs $395 USD.

5. ASIS International Guard and Patrol Services Council Certificate Program

The ASIS International Guard and Patrol Services Council Certificate Program is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of security professionals in the guard and patrol services industry. The program is intended to provide a comprehensive understanding of the guard and patrol services industry, including topics such as regulations, policies, procedures, risk management, customer service, communication techniques, and more.

To obtain the certificate, applicants must complete an online course consisting of five modules. The modules cover topics such as security operations management; legal aspects of security; customer service; communication techniques; and risk management. Upon successful completion of all five modules, applicants are eligible to take the certification exam.

The cost for taking the online course is $299 USD. The cost for taking the certification exam is $150 USD. It typically takes 6-8 weeks to complete the course and pass the exam in order to receive your certificate.

6. International Foundation for Protection Officers (IFPO) Certificate of Achievement

The International Foundation for Protection Officers (IFPO) Certificate of Achievement is a professional certification program designed to recognize security professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and proficiency in the field of security. The IFPO Certificate of Achievement is awarded to individuals who demonstrate mastery of the core competencies required to perform their duties as a protection officer.

It typically takes approximately six months to complete the IFPO Certificate of Achievement program, depending on the individual's experience and commitment. To obtain the certificate, applicants must complete a series of courses that cover topics such as legal issues, customer service, emergency response, communication skills, and risk management. After completing all coursework, applicants must pass an exam administered by IFPO.

The cost for the IFPO Certificate of Achievement program varies depending on the provider. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$2,000 USD.

7. Private Security Officer Training Certification

Private Security Officer Training Certification is a credential that certifies an individual has completed the required training and education to become a private security officer. This certification is typically required by most states for individuals who wish to work in the field of private security.

The length of time it takes to get the certification varies depending on the state requirements, but generally it can take anywhere from one day to several weeks. To get certified, individuals must complete a specified number of hours of classroom instruction and pass a written exam. The cost for this certification also varies by state, but usually ranges from $50-$200.

In addition to completing the training and passing the exam, some states may require applicants to have a background check or drug test before they can be certified as a private security officer.

8. National Association of Security Companies Basic Security Officer Training Certification

The National Association of Security Companies (NASCO) Basic Security Officer Training Certification is a comprehensive training program designed to provide security officers with the knowledge and skills needed to perform their duties effectively. The certification program consists of two courses: the Basic Security Officer Course and the Advanced Security Officer Course. The Basic Security Officer Course covers topics such as safety, customer service, legal issues, emergency response, and basic security techniques. The Advanced Security Officer Course covers topics such as advanced security techniques, use of force, surveillance operations, and crime prevention.

The NASCO Basic Security Officer Training Certification program typically takes 8-10 weeks to complete depending on the individual student's schedule and availability. To get certified, individuals must successfully complete both courses through an accredited training provider or institution. Once completed, individuals are eligible to receive their NASCO certification card which is valid for three years from the date of issue.

The cost for the NASCO Basic Security Officer Training Certification varies depending on the institution or provider offering it. Generally speaking, most institutions charge between $500-$1000 for both courses combined.

9. ASIS International Professional Security Officer Certificate Program

The ASIS International Professional Security Officer Certificate Program (PSOCP) is a comprehensive certification program designed to equip security officers with the knowledge and skills needed to protect people, property, and assets. This program is offered by ASIS International, an organization dedicated to advancing the security profession worldwide.

The PSOCP consists of three courses: Introduction to Security, Security Practices & Procedures, and Emergency Response & Crisis Management. The courses are offered online or in-person and can be completed in as little as three months. Each course provides participants with an overview of the security industry, focusing on topics such as risk assessment and management, legal issues, emergency response planning, and more.

To get certified through the PSOCP program, applicants must first complete all three courses within two years of enrolling in the program. After completing the courses, applicants must submit a portfolio that demonstrates their knowledge and skills related to security practices and procedures. Once this portfolio is approved by ASIS International’s Certification Board of Directors (CBOD), applicants will receive their Professional Security Officer Certificate.

The cost of the PSOCP varies depending on whether you take the courses online or in-person. The cost for taking all three courses online is $1,295 USD while taking them in-person costs $2,495 USD. There may also be additional fees associated with submitting your portfolio for review by CBOD.

10. American Society for Industrial Security Professional Certified Protection Officer Program

The American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS) Professional Certified Protection Officer Program is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills and abilities of security professionals in the protection of people, property and assets. The program is open to all security professionals who have at least two years of experience in the security field.

The program consists of a two-day workshop followed by an online exam. The workshop covers topics such as risk assessment, physical security, access control systems, CCTV systems, emergency response plans, and more. After completing the workshop, candidates must pass an online exam that tests their knowledge and understanding of the material covered in the workshop.

To get certified as a Professional Certified Protection Officer, you must first complete the two-day workshop and then pass the online exam with a score of 75% or higher. The cost for attending the workshop is $595 USD and includes all materials needed for the course. There are no additional fees associated with taking or passing the exam.

Once you have successfully completed both components of the program, you will receive your ASIS Professional Certified Protection Officer certification which is valid for three years from date of issue.

11. National Burglar & Fire Alarm Association Level 1 Guard Card

The National Burglar & Fire Alarm Association (NBFAA) Level 1 Guard Card is a certification program offered by the NBFAA to certify individuals who wish to become security guards. The Level 1 Guard Card is the entry-level certification for security guards, and it is designed to provide basic knowledge of the duties and responsibilities of a security guard.

To obtain the Level 1 Guard Card, applicants must complete an online training program that covers topics such as legal issues, safety protocols, customer service, and emergency response. The online course typically takes 8-10 hours to complete and costs $99. Once the course is completed, applicants must pass an exam with a score of 80% or higher in order to receive their Level 1 Guard Card.

Once certified, individuals must renew their Level 1 Guard Card every two years in order to maintain their certification status. The renewal fee for the Level 1 Guard Card is $50.

Do You Really Need a Guard Certificate?

When it comes to the security of your business, home, or any other property that you wish to protect, a guard certificate can provide an extra layer of protection. Guard certificates are issued by the local government and police departments and are required for anyone who wishes to become a private security guard. The purpose of these certificates is to ensure that those who are employed as guards have the necessary training and experience to do their job properly.

In most cases, if you are running a business or own a home or other property, it is recommended that you obtain a guard certificate. This will give you peace of mind that your security personnel have been trained and experienced in their field. A guard certificate also serves as proof that the person has met all requirements set by the government and police department. It also ensures that they have passed all necessary background checks and drug tests before being hired.

Having a guard certificate also guarantees that your security personnel will always be up-to-date with any changes in regulations or laws regarding security services in your area. This means they will be able to provide better service and keep your property safe from potential threats. In addition, it ensures that they have received proper training so they can best handle any situations they may encounter while on duty.

Overall, obtaining a guard certificate is an important step when it comes to protecting yourself, your family, and/or your business from potential harm. These certificates serve as proof of competency for those who wish to become private security guards and provide reassurance for those who hire them for their services.

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FAQs About Guard Certifications

1. What is a guard certification?

Answer: A guard certification is a type of professional credential that shows employers you have the skills and knowledge necessary to work as a security guard or other related positions. It is often required for those looking to enter the security field or advance in their careers.

2. How do I get certified?

Answer: Depending on the state or country you live in, there may be different requirements for obtaining a guard certification. In general, most certifications require completion of an approved training program and passing an exam.

3. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The time frame to obtain a guard certification can vary depending on the program and individual’s circumstances. Generally, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to complete the training and pass the exam.

4. Are there any prerequisites for getting certified?

Answer: Yes, many certifications require applicants to have completed certain courses or have relevant experience prior to applying for the certification program. Refer to your local regulations for more specific information about prerequisites in your area.

5. Is there an expiration date on my certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifications must be renewed every few years in order to remain valid and up-to-date with changing security practices and regulations.