All unarmed security officers working in the Commonwealth of Virginia must complete 18 hours of unarmed (Core Subjects) training and register with the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services.

Security officers who carry a firearm must complete the Core Subjects training (18 hours); the Entry Level firearms course (14 hours); and an Arrest Authority course (8 hours). Note that these three courses can be taken in any order and are mandated by law. All armed security officers must register with the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services and receive a firearms endorsement card before carrying a firearm.

In the Commonwealth of Virginia armed security officers who carry or have access to any firearm, must be trained and qualified with the caliber and type of weapon that they carry while on duty. This includes handguns, shotguns or other firearms.

Note: You do not need to have a job with a security guard company to take these classes.

Class Fees: Unarmed $80; Armed $220 (.38 Caliber) $230 (9mm)
Armed Renewal $140 (.38 Caliber) $150 (9mm); In-Service $40
Fees are payable by cash or money order only.