Armed Security Guard Training in South Carolina

In South Carolina, an armed security guard must apply for a license through the security company that he or see work for. The hiring companies with forward all information to SLED for approval.  The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) administers the license. There are certain criteria that must be met before a license will be approved.

Basic requirements for armed security guards in South Carolina:

• Be at least 21 years old
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Must be a United States citizen or resident alien
• Mentally competent
• Have good moral character
• No drug or alcohol use or dependence
• Must successfully pass a drug test
• No felony convictions
• No disabilities that would prevent performance of duty
• Finger print card
• Submit to criminal background check
• Complete required training by a SLED certified trainer

Training Curriculum:

The hiring company provides the required training. Four or more hours of training must be completed and a written exam passed and scored. The training must be material from the South Carolina Technical College Private Security Training School. A basic training conducted may include but is not limited to the following:
(1) Role of Private Security
(2) Legal Aspects
(3) Patrol and Observation
(4) Incident Response
(5) Security Resources: Surveillance operation and documentation
(6) Customer Service Issues: Working with and addressing the public
(7) First Aid Overview

Firearms Training

In addition to completing the above training, an additional four hours of handgun training  by a SLED certified firearms trainer must be successfully completed. Shotguns and rifles are prohibited.

Fees are nonrefundable:

Licensing: $110
For more information, please call 803-737-9000.

Resource:

SLED Regulations