Individual security officers employed by a licensed Class “B” security agency or branch office are required to obtain a Class “D” license.
See: Florida Statute §493.6301(4)

Unarmed proprietary security officers are exempt from the license requirement.
See: Fla. Stat §493.6102
This chapter shall not apply to:
(4)   Any unarmed individual engaged in security services who is employed exclusively to work on the premises of her or his employer, or in connection with the business of her or his employer, when there exists an employer-employee relationship.

Also, Florida does not require licensing for security officers working at religious settings such as churches. The statute states in part:
493.6102  (13) Any individual employed as a security officer by a church or ecclesiastical or denominational
organization having an established physical place of worship in this state at which nonprofit religious services and activities are
regularly conducted or by a church cemetery to provide security on the property of the organization or cemetery,
and who does not carry a firearm in the course of her or his duties.

Fees
$45.00   Class D Security Officer License Fee
$42.00   Fingerprint Processing Fee
$10.75   Fingerprint Retention Fee
$97.75 Total fees required

The initial license fee for a veteran shall be waived if he or she applies for a license within 24 months after being discharged from any branch of the US Armed Forces. If you are applying for another class of license under Chapter 493, F.S., at this time, submit only one set of fingerprints and a single fingerprint-processing and retention fee. And if you have submitted a set of fingerprints and a fingerprint-processing and retention fee for a license under Chapter 493 with in past six months, no fingerprint submission or fingerprint-processing or retention fee in necessary at this time.

See: Application Class D – Form 16007, General Information

Florida permits both mail, in person and online applications processes.
See: Class D Security Officer License Requirements

The license must be renewed every two years.
See: Fla. Stat. § 493.6113(1)

ARMED GUARDS (Class “G”):

Individual Security Officers holding a Class ”D” license are permitted to bear a firearm and any such licensee who bears a firearm shall also have a Class “G” Statewide Firearm license.  No employee shall carry or be furnished a weapon or firearm unless the carrying of a weapon or firearm is required by her or his duties, nor shall an employee carry a weapon or firearm except in connection with those duties.
See: §493.6115

Fees
$112   Class G Firearms License Fee
$42   Fingerprint Processing Fee
$10.75 Fingerprint Retention Fee
$164.75 Total fees required

Temporary licensure:

The department may issue a temporary Class “G” license, on a case-by-case basis, if:
(a) The agency or employer has certified that the applicant has been determined to be mentally and emotionally stable by either:
1. A validated written psychological test taken within the previous 12-month period.
2. An evaluation by a psychiatrist or psychologist licensed in this state or by the Federal Government made within the previous 12-month period.
3. Presentation of a DD form 214, issued within the previous 12-month period, which establishes the absence of emotional or mental instability at the time of discharge from military service.
(b) The department has reviewed the mental health and substance abuse data provided by the Department of Law Enforcement as authorized in s. 493.6108(3) and has determined the applicant is not prohibited from licensure based upon this data.
(c) The applicant has submitted a complete application for a Class “G” license, with a notation that she or he is seeking a temporary Class “G” license.
(d) The applicant has completed all Class “G” minimum training requirements as specified in this section.
(e) The applicant has received approval from the department subsequent to its conduct of a criminal history record check as authorized in s. 493.6108(1).

 See:  Application Class G- Form 16008, General Information

Florida has adopted “reciprocity” provisions that recognizes other licensure from other jurisdictions in limited circumstances. The Act declares:
493.6109 Reciprocity.
(1) The department may adopt rules for:
(a) Entering into reciprocal agreements with other states or territories of the United States for the purpose of licensing persons to perform activities regulated under this chapter who are currently licensed to perform similar services in the other states or territories; or
(b) Allowing a person who is licensed in another state or territory to perform similar services in this state, on a temporary and limited basis, without the need for licensure in state.

The applicant must be at least 18 years of age for BOTH unarmed and armed guards.
See: Fla. Stat. §493.6106(1)(a)
See: Application Class D – Form 16007, Section 1, Applicant Information

See: Application Class G – Form 16008, Section 1, Applicant Information

and also  Class D” Security Officer License Requirements

Both armed and unarmed guards must be a United States citizen or deemed a permanent legal resident alien by the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

See: Application Class D – Form 16007, Section 1, Applicant Information

See: Application Class G – Form 16008, Section 1, Applicant Information

and also Class D” Security Officer License Requirements

No baseline requirement

Licensure Exemptions:

Unarmed proprietary security officers are exempt from the license requirement.
See: Fla. Stat §493.6102
This chapter shall not apply to:
(4)   Any unarmed individual engaged in security services who is employed exclusively to work on the premises of her or his employer, or in connection with the business of her or his employer, when there exists an employer-employee relationship.

Also, Florida does not require licensing for security officers working at religious settings such as churches. The statute states in part:
493.6102  (13) Any individual employed as a security officer by a church or ecclesiastical or denominational
organization having an established physical place of worship in this state at which nonprofit religious services and activities are
regularly conducted or by a church cemetery to provide security on the property of the organization or cemetery,
and who does not carry a firearm in the course of her or his duties.

Training Exemptions:

If you are a currently employed law enforcement officer, correctional officer or correctional probation officer certified by FDLE Criminal Justice Standards & Training Commission, a copy of your valid ID card issued by your employing law enforcement agency is sufficient to satisfy the training requirement.
•   If you have successfully completed a training program approved by the Florida Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission for certification as a law enforcement officer, correctional officer or correctional probation officer, a copy of your certificate of completion is sufficient to satisfy the training requirement.
•   If you qualify for a Class “DI” Security Officer Instructor license under Rule 5N-1.138(1)(e)-(g), Florida Administrative Code, proof of such qualification is sufficient to satisfy the training requirement.

See: Application Class D – Form 16007, Section V1, Training/Experience

For a full list of exemptions see: Fla. Stat. §493.6102

ARMED GUARD:

Class G – Firearms License Training Exemptions (Acceptable alternatives for the 28 hours of range and classroom training):
1.   Proof that you are currently certified as a law enforcement officer or correctional officer pursuant to the requirements of the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission or have successfully completed the training required for certification within the last 12 months.
2.   Proof that you are currently certified as a federal law enforcement officer and have received law enforcement firearms training administered by a federal law enforcement agency.
3.   Proof that you qualify for a Class “K” Firearms Instructor License in accordance with the requirements set forth in Section 493.6105(6)(a), F.S.
4. Relevant military training or education received and completed during service in the United States Armed Forces as provided in Rule
5N-1.119(9), Florida Administrative Code.

See: Application Class G – Form 16008, Section V1, Training/Experience

None mentioned for unarmed guards.

ARMED GUARDS:
Class “G” Statewide Firearm License is required.

To be eligible to carry a concealed weapon, the following requirements must be met:
1. You must be 21 years of age or older.
2. You must be able to demonstrate competency with a firearm.
3. Unless you are serving overseas in the United States Armed Forces, you must currently reside in the United States and be a U.S. citizen or deemed a lawful permanent resident alien by Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service. If you are serving overseas in the U.S. Armed Forces, submit a copy of your deployment documentation with your application. Those who are Resident Aliens must provide a valid Permanent Resident Alien card.

For the rules and requirements for the issuance of a permit for a concealed weapon, see here.

Florida Statute §493.6111(1)
All licenses issued pursuant to this chapter shall be on a form prescribed by the department and shall include the licensee’s name, license number, expiration date of the license, and any other information the department deems necessary. Class “C,” Class “CC,” Class “D,” Class “E,” Class “EE,” Class “M,” Class “MA,” Class “MB,” Class “MR,” and Class “G” licenses shall be in the possession of individual licensees while on duty.

Florida Statute § 493.6106(1)(b) and § 493.6101(7)
The applicant must be of good moral character.  Good moral character means a personal history of honesty, fairness, and respect for the right and property of others and for the laws of this state and nation.

Each applicant must submit a full set of fingerprints.
See: Fla. Stat. § 493.6105(3)(j) The applicant must submit a complete and legible set of fingerprints either on the Fingerprint Card in the application package or by Electronic Fingerprint-Scan. Your fingerprints can be taken at a participating law enforcement agency, by your employer, or by any business providing fingerprinting services. For information regarding electronic fingerprint-scan, visit here.

Fingerprint processing fee is $42 at the Regional Office or $35 at the Sherriff’s office or Police Department

See: Application Class D – Form 16007, Fingerprint Submission Instructions

Options to obtain fingerprints

• Your local sheriff’s office or police department. Call in advance to find out whether the office does in fact provide electronic fingerprint scanning service and if an appointment is necessary.
• One of our nine Regional Offices.
• Livescan Service Providers

See:  Submitting Fingerprints Electronically FAQ

UNARMED:

According to the Class “D” Form 16007 Application:

d.  If you have been committed for controlled substance abuse, you must provide evidence of successful completion
of a substance abuse rehabilitation course and a letter from your course sponsor establishing that you are not
currently abusing any controlled substance.
e.   If you: (1) chronically and habitually use alcoholic beverages to the extent that your normal faculties are impaired;
or, (2) have ever been committed by a court to an alcohol rehabilitation course; or, (3) have ever been deemed by
a court to be a habitual offender; or, (4) have had two or more convictions for driving under the influence within
three years prior to your submitting your application, you must provide evidence of successful completion of an
alcohol rehabilitation course and a letter from your course sponsor establishing that you are not currently abusing
any alcoholic beverages.

ARMED:  According to the  Class “G” Form 16008 Application:

d.  If you are currently abusing a controlled substance, you are not eligible for licensure.
e.   If you have a history of controlled substance abuse, you must provide evidence of successful completion of a substance abuse rehabilitation program and three letters of reference, one of which should be from your sponsor in the program.
f.   If you have a history of alcohol abuse, you must provide evidence of successful completion of an alcohol rehabilitation program and three letters of reference, one of which should be from your sponsor in the program.

See: Application Class D – Form 16007, Section V, Personal History
See: Fla. Stat. § 493.6106(1)(d)

UNARMED:

According to the Class “D” Form 16007 Application:

a.   If you have ever been adjudicated incapacitated (determined by the court to be incapable of taking care of yourself), you must provide proof that you have been granted relief from federal firearms disabilities.

b.   If you have ever been involuntarily placed in a treatment facility for the mentally ill under Chapter 394, F.S., or similar laws of another state, you must provide proof that you have been granted relief from federal firearms disabilities.

c.   If you have ever been diagnosed with a mental illness, you must provide a statement from a psychologist of psychiatrists licensed in Florida attesting that you are not currently suffering from a mental illness that precludes you from performing regulated duties in an armed capacity.

ARMED:

According to the Class “D” Form 16008 Application:

a.  If you have ever been adjudicated incapacitated (determined by the court to be incapable of taking care of yourself),
you must provide proof that you have been granted relief from federal firearms disabilities.
b. If you have ever been involuntarily placed in a treatment facility for the mentally ill under Chapter 394,
F.S., or similar laws of another state, you must provide proof that you have been granted relief from federal firearms
disabilities.
c. If you have ever been diagnosed with a mental illness, you must provide a statement from a psychologist or
psychiatrist licensed in Florida attesting that you are not currently suffering from a mental illness that precludes you
from performing regulated duties in an armed capacity.

See: Fla. Stat. § 493.6106(1)(c)

UNARMED:

According to the Class “D” Form 16007 Application:

The department will deny your application if you:
• have been convicted of a felony in any state, or of a crime against the United States which is designated as a
felony, or convicted of an offense in any other state, territory, or country punishable by imprisonment for a term
exceeding 1 year, unless and until civil rights have been restored and a period of 10 years has passed since final
release from supervision. Proof of restoration of civil rights must be submitted with this application. Questions
regarding the procedure for applying for restoration of civil rights or restoration of firearm rights should be
addressed to: The Office of Executive Clemency; Florida Commission on Offender Review; 4070 Esplanade
Way; Tallahassee, FL 32399-2450, Toll Free 1-800-435-8286; Phone (850) 488-2952.
• are currently serving a suspended sentence on a felony charge or on probation for a felony charge.
The department may deny your application if you:
• in connection with either a crime of violence or a directly related crime: (1) have been found guilty of such crime;
(2) have been convicted of such crime; OR, (3) have entered a plea of guilty or nolo contendere to such crime
regardless of adjudication. A directly related crime includes, but is not limited to: trespassing, breaking and
entering, burglary, robbery, forgery, criminal mischief or theft, assault, battery, stalking, aggravated battery,
aggravated assault, sexual battery, kidnapping, armed robbery, murder, aggravated stalking, resisting an officer
with or without violence.
• have demonstrated a lack of good moral character.
• have an outstanding warrant or capias.
• are currently in a pre-trial intervention or deferred prosecution program.
You must provide complete information about your arrest(s) and include certified copies of court
dispositions. A determination of your eligibility cannot be made until all documentation is received and a
complete criminal history record check has been completed. This process takes 1-3 months.

See: Application Class D – Form 16007, Section III, Criminal History

Investigation of applicants by Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
(1)   Except as otherwise provided, the department must investigate an applicant for a license under this chapter before it may issue the license. The investigation must include:
(a)1.   An examination of fingerprint records and police records. If a criminal history record check of an applicant under this chapter is performed by means of fingerprint identification, the time limitations prescribed by s. 120.60(1) shall be tolled while the applicant’s fingerprints are under review by the Department of Law Enforcement or the United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation.
2.   If a legible set of fingerprints, as determined by the Department of Law Enforcement or the Federal Bureau of Investigation, cannot be obtained after two attempts, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services may determine the applicant’s eligibility based upon a criminal history record check under the applicant’s name conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

See: Fla. Stat.§493.6108

ARMED GUARDS:

According to the Class “D” Form 16008 Application:

The Department will deny your application if you:
• are currently serving a suspended sentence on a felony charge or are on probation for a felony charge
[Section 493.6118(4), F.S.].
• have been convicted of a felony in any state or of a crime against the United States, which is designated as a felony,
or convicted of an offense in any other state, territory, or country punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding
1 year, unless and until Civil Rights and Firearm Rights have been restored by the convicting authority and a period
of 10 years has passed since final release from supervision [Section 493.6118(4)(a), F.S.]. Proof of restoration of
Civil Rights and Firearm Rights must be submitted with this application.
1. If the felony conviction occurred within the State of Florida, your civil rights and firearm rights must be restored
by the Florida Office of Executive Clemency. Questions regarding the procedure for applying for restoration of
Civil Rights or restoration of Firearm Rights should be addressed to The Office of Executive Clemency; Florida
Commission on Offender Review; 4070 Esplanade Way; Tallahassee, FL 32399-2450, Toll Free 1-800-435-
8286; Phone (850) 488-2952.
2. Felony convictions occurring in another state require restoration of civil and firearm rights by the state in which
the conviction occurred.
3. If you were convicted of a felony under federal law, you must have a presidential pardon or have been granted
federal relief from disabilities.
The Department may deny your application if you:
• have a history of being arrested for crimes of violence and/or found guilty of (or had adjudication withheld for)
directly related crimes. This includes, but is not limited to: Trespassing, Breaking and Entering, Burglary, Robbery,
Forgery, Criminal Mischief or Theft, Assault, Battery, Stalking, Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Assault, Sexual
Battery, Kidnapping, Armed Robbery, Murder, Aggravated Stalking, Resisting an Officer with or without Violence
[Section 493.6118(1)(c), Section 493.6118(1)(j), Section 493.6118(3), F.S., Rule 5N-1.114, Florida Administrative
Code].
• have demonstrated a lack of respect for the laws of this state and the nation [Section 493.6118(3)].
• have an outstanding bench warrant or capias [Section 493.6118(3), F.S.].
• are currently in a Pre-Trial Intervention or Deferred Prosecution Program [Section 493.6118(3), F.S.].
You must provide complete information about your arrest(s) and include certified copies of court
dispositions. A determination of your eligibility cannot be made until all documentation is received and a
complete criminal history record check has been completed. This process takes 1-3 months.

Not required unless the department requests sworn affidavits from former employers during relevant time period attesting that the applicant was employed and working at the claimed profession or service.
See: 5N-1.120 FAC

UNARMED GUARDS:

According to the Class “D” Form 16007 Application:

If you: (1) chronically and habitually use alcoholic beverages to the extent that your normal faculties are impaired;
or, (2) have ever been committed by a court to an alcohol rehabilitation course; or, (3) have ever been deemed by
a court to be a habitual offender; or, (4) have had two or more convictions for driving under the influence within
three years prior to your submitting your application, you must provide evidence of successful completion of an
alcohol rehabilitation course and a letter from your course sponsor establishing that you are not currently abusing
any alcoholic beverages.

ARMED GUARDS:

According to the Class “G” Form 16008 Application:

If you have a history of controlled substance abuse, you must provide evidence of successful completion of a
substance abuse rehabilitation program and three letters of reference, one of which should be from your sponsor
in the program.
If you have a history of alcohol abuse, you must provide evidence of successful completion of an alcohol rehabilitation program and three letters of reference, one of which should be from your sponsor in the program.

Class D – Security Officer Training
Must submit proof of successful completion of a minimum of 40 hours of professional training at a school or training facility licensed by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, in the following topics:
•   Legal Issues and Liabilities
•   Basic First Aid
•   Fire Suppression
•   Emergency Procedures
•   Crime & Accident Prevention
•   Professional Communication
•   Terrorism Awareness
•   Ethics and Professional Conduct
•   Patrol Techniques
•   Observation Techniques & Report Writing
•   Interview Techniques and other required topics

See: Fla. Stat. § 493.6303(4)

Class G – Firearms Training
In order to qualify, you must successfully complete 28 hours of range and classroom training
pertaining to the use of firearms in connection with duties regulated under Chapter 493, Florida Statutes.
The training must be obtained from a licensed Class “K” Firearms Instructor within the preceding 12 months.

The 28 hour-course curriculum and the time that should be devoted to each of the subject areas included in the curriculum are
indicated below. Note that the law stipulates that no more than eight hours of the training shall consist of range training.
•   Legal Aspects of Use of Firearms (12 hours) – This section of the course covers applicable portions of Chapters 493, 775, 776, and 790, Florida Statutes,
as well as civil and criminal liability issues in connection with the use of firearms.

•   Operational Firearms Safety and Firearms Mechanical Training (8 hours) – This portion of the curriculum is intended to provide students with a
comprehensive understanding of the mechanical operations of a firearm and how to handle firearms safely.
A written examination of 100 questions will be administered covering the portions of the curriculum dealing with legal use and operational/mechanical training.

•   Firearms Qualification (8 hours) – This segment of the training course includes practical exercises in the handling of firearms – stance,
grip, sighting, etc. – as well as topics pertaining to range safety and range commands.
The instructor will require students to fire 144 rounds as part of the firearms qualification for
initial licensure (48 rounds of practice fire +2 cycles of 48 rounds for initial qualification).
No more than eight hours of the 28 hours of training shall consist of range training.

See: Firearms Training Manual – Student Handbook and Study Guide

Not required for Class D/unarmed.

ARMED GUARDS:  A written exam will be administered during the Operational Firearms Safety and Firearms Mechanical Training portion of training. Additionally, the Firearms Qualification portion will require a firearms qualification. See Training Requirements for more information.

No baseline requirement

•   The Security Officer Handbook

•   Class D Application Form(PDF)

•   Submitting Fingerprints Electronically FAQ

•   The Security Officer Handbook

•   Class “G” Application Form (PDF)

•   Fees table (PDF)

•   Firearms Training Manual – Student Handbook and Study Guide

•   Florida Statute §493 Part III Private Security Services