Our Security Guard Training programs prepare individuals to meet Maryland certification requirements, including Initial and In-Service training courses. We provide in-person instruction that meets state standards and equips students with the knowledge needed to work professionally in the security field.
Security Guard Training
Security Guard Training Classes
Price does not include fingerprinting fee and State Police fees
Security Guard Initial Training Course (ITP) – This course satisfies the 12 hour Initial training requirement for Maryland Security Guard Certification enabling you to apply to the Maryland State Police for a Guard Card. Actual issuance of a Guard Card requires sponsorship by a Security Guard Agency or Security Guard employer.
Security Guard In-Service Training Course (ISTP) – This course satisfies the 8 hour In-Service training requirement for Maryland Security Guard Certification enabling you to renew your Guard Card. If you have not previously completed the 12 hour initial training, the State Police requires the full 12 hour course to renew your guard certification. Actual issuance of a Guard Card requires sponsorship by a Security Guard Agency or Security Guard employer.
Practical Police Course for Designated Security Personnel - This classroom and range based course is specifically for Armed Designated Security Personnel, i.e., security guards; private detectives; special police, who must qualify on a practical police course as approved by the Maryland State Police and requires the proficient firing of at least 50 rounds from the 3, 5, 7, 15, and 25-yard lines. This course includes one-handed strong and weak; two-handed strong and weak; kneeling and standing barricade positions. The course is only available to those with a current HGP and a designated license, e.g., Security Guard Card.
This course is scheduled by request. Please call to arrange a course if you do not see one regularly scheduled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about permits, training requirements, or what to expect in class? Read our FAQs to learn more about Maryland firearm laws, course details, and how to get started.
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Basic Requirements: Minimum of 18 years old with no criminal record.
Process:
Take a State of Maryland approved 12-hour training class.
Submit an application for a Card to the Maryland State Police.
Provide the application PLU number and PIN # to a prospective Guard Agency Sponsor/Agency.
The Guard Agency submits their approval to the State Police.
The State Police mails the Guard Card to the Sponsoring/Employing Agency.
Note: To be an armed guard there are two additional criteria:
Take a Maryland Wear & Carry class and apply to the State Police for a Hand Gun Permit.
The Guard Agency must designate the position as “Armed.”
Detailed guidance is available from the Maryland State Police Security Guard Licensing Portal.
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No. Issuance of a Guard Card is based on the approval of your application to the State Police. The State Police assesses your eligibility based on the qualifying criteria.
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We cover all the teaching objectives required by the Maryland Security Guard licensing standards for the 12 hour Initial Training and 8 hour In-Service courses. All the instruction is in-person.
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The course is conducted over two days from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. which includes a lunch break.
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No. The State of Maryland licensing standard requires full attendance. If you are unable to complete both of the two days consecutively, we can arrange for you to make up the second day in another session.
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We don’t criticize other providers but we believe our training offers the most professional and best value for your investment of time and treasure.
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The only other fees beyond the course is for fingerprinting and the fees charged directly by the State Police for permit application. We can arrange fingerprinting for you or refer you to a provider near you.
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You can reach out to Chris or Deb (christopher@orpheusdefense.com or Debra@orpheusdefense.com).