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Best security guard certifications
Security guard certifications allow job seekers to demonstrate their competency as an security guard to employers. However, not all security guard certifications provide the same value for job seekers.
The best certifications for a security guard are Security 5 Certification, Commercial Driver License (CDL), and OSHA Safety Certificate .
Below is a list of the best security guard certifications. Obtaining an security guard certification will give you a leg up when you apply for jobs and increase your potential salary.
20 best certifications for security guards
| Rank | Security Guard certification | Organization |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Security 5 Certification | EC-Council |
| 2 | Commercial Driver License (CDL) | FMCSA |
| 3 | OSHA Safety Certificate | Delaware Tech... |
| 4 | First Aid, CPR and AED Instructor | NSC |
| 5 | EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA) | EPA |
| 6 | Certified Healthcare Safety Professional - Fire Safety Management (CHSP-FSM) | IBFCSM |
| 7 | Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED | American Red ... |
| 8 | Certified in Homeland Security (CHS) | ACFEI, Cr.FA |
| 9 | Computer Service Technician (CST) | ETA |
| 10 | Certified Professional - Food Safety (CP-FS) | NEHA |
| 11 | Certified Electronic Systems Technician (EST) | ESPA |
| 12 | Industrial Security Professional Certification (ISP) | NCMS |
| 13 | Operator Certification | CSDA |
| 14 | Certified Security Supervision & Management (CSS) | IFPO |
| 15 | Cisco Secure Virtual Private Networks (CSVPN) | Global Knowle... |
| 16 | Certified Master Safe Technician (CMST) | ALOA |
| 17 | Physical Security Certification (PSC) | CDSE |
| 18 | Board Certification in Criminal Trial Law | NBTA |
| 19 | Certified Protection Officer (CPO) | IFPO |
| 20 | Certified Safety Professional (CSP) | BCSP |
20 best security guard certifications
1. Security 5 Certification
The Security5 Certification is the entry level for anyone interested in learning computer networking and security basics. The Security5 program gives individuals basic networking literacy skills to begin high-end IT programs.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
2. Commercial Driver License (CDL)
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the agency of the U.S. Department of Transportation that is responsible for establishing standards for Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) operators, including the Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The minimum national CDL testing standards and licensing requirements established by FMCSA are administered by state driver licensing agencies when they issue a CDL. You are required to obtain and hold a CDL if you drive interstate, intrastate (within a state), or for foreign commerce and drive a vehicle that meets any of the classifications of a CDL. States develop their own tests which must meet the minimum federal standards, but which also may have standards unique to the state. To get a CDL, first you must get a commercial learner's permit. States can only issue learner's permits and CDLs to drivers after they pass knowledge exams and skills tests. You have to pass the CDL knowledge and skills tests for the class of license and type of endorsement required to operate the type of commercial vehicle you plan to drive. And, you have to take the skills test in a vehicle of the same type as the vehicle you plan to operate. For a quick reference of CDL Classes, see the CDL License Matrix.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 4 year(s)
3. OSHA Safety Certificate
This 40-hour program covers both the Construction 1926 and General Industry 1910 Standards, how to effectively interpret the Federal Register, health issues related to a work environment, recognition of physical hazards related to the violation of OSHA standards, and employer implementation of their own pro-active safety and health procedures.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? No
- Renewal required? No
4. First Aid, CPR and AED Instructor
Knowing how to respond to a first aid or CPR emergency is one of the most important skills a person can possess. The Standard First Aid, CPR and AED course meets the OSHA requirements and is your tool for training employees or the general public on the latest skills, techniques and expertise in life-saving procedures. The practice and feedback of using related skills in a realistic situation is integrated into the actual teaching experience.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? No
- Renewal required? No
5. EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA)
A comprehensive, equipment specific safety program designed to provide operators and their employees with a thorough understanding of best risk management practices. Industry accidents, which serve to put a spotlight on potential issues, can often be avoided through the utilization of proper risk management techniques.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
6. Certified Healthcare Safety Professional - Fire Safety Management (CHSP-FSM)
The International Board for Certification of Safety Managers, also known as BCHCM, is proud to announce the new healthcare Fire Safety Management (FSM) designation. The FSM is a specialty endorsement designation to the existing Certified Healthcare Safety Professional (CHSP) credential. Applicants for the new FSM designation must hold the CHSP and be in good standing with the Board. Any CHSP member can apply to sit for the FSM exam by completing an on-line application and paying the current examination fee of $150. There is currently no application fee. The Board does not need any supporting documentation such as reference forms or transcripts. The FSM exam is comprehensive in scope and contains from 80-100 multiple choice questions. The exam is challenging but does not contain questions requiring math or engineering calculations. The exam content has been developed with the assistance of practicing professionals and subject matter experts. The Board statistically analyzes each exam to ensure the validity of all questions. The Board also uses analytical techniques to ensure the reliability of each exam version to access the competency of each candidate. Each exam may contain 5 to 10 "trial questions" that are being validated for use on future exam forms.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 5 year(s)
7. Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED
Participants learn the importance of AEDs, and how to use an AED properly.The professional rescuer courses are designed for people with job-related duties in emergency preparedness and response. This includes nurses, law enforcement and EMS personnel, fire fighters, business and industry response teams, lifeguards, flight attendants, and others who must take action in emergency situations.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
8. Certified in Homeland Security (CHS)
Professionals with significant and demonstrable experience in areas that interface with Homeland Security may be eligible for granted Certification in Homeland Security. Those areas are listed on the website.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 1 year(s)
9. Computer Service Technician (CST)
The following can be expected to identify the major areas of training-study-knowledge and skills which the Computer Service Technician needs in order to perform the job of servicing the hardware and the systems software for personal computers: Computer Assembly-Disassembly; Motherboards; Buses; System Resources, Processor Characteristics; Memory Characteristics (Physical & Electronic); Secondary Storage Devices; Peripheral Devices; I/O Ports; Power Concepts and Power Supplies; Basic Networking Concepts; Portables; Digital Concepts; Troubleshooting/Preventive Maintenance; current Operating Systems; File Management; Safety Procedures/Handling; and Workplace Practices.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 4 year(s)
10. Certified Professional - Food Safety (CP-FS)
The Certified Professional - Food Safety is for food safety professionals and is designed for individuals within the public and private sectors whose primary responsibility is the protection and safety of food. The exam for this prestigious credential integrates food microbiology, HACCP principles and regulatory requirements into questions that test problem solving skills and knowledge.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 2 year(s)
11. Certified Electronic Systems Technician (EST)
The ESPA Certified-EST® exam is based upon the best practices of the commercial and residential electronic industries. ESPA certification "sets the bar" and provides the foundational knowledge and skills required to pursue a career in many fields including commercial and residential A/V, telecom, cable, satellite, fire & security, computers, building & general trades, green technologies, and advanced manufacturing. The ESPA Certified-EST exam is becoming the recognized entry-level certification for both the residential and commercial low-voltage industries. This certification will demonstrate to employers that an individual has a solid, fundamental knowledge on which to build a career. This exam tests basic technical knowledge needed by a first year technician to work in the field, under supervision.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 5 year(s)
12. Industrial Security Professional Certification (ISP)
The intent of the ISP designation is to award professional certification and recognition to qualified candidates who demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities their profession demands. The basis for the examination is primarily the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), the supplements, and other information security concomitant rules and regulations to include Operations Security, proprietary information, etc.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
13. Operator Certification
Operator Certification is an intensive six-day training program that educates operators in the correct applications and techniques for safe, competent operation of sawing and drilling equipment.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
14. Certified Security Supervision & Management (CSS)
The program candidate must have six months previous security supervisory/management experience or equivalent. Remit the certification fee to IFPO to receive the CSSM application. Candidates accepted into this portion of the program are required to address 10 simulated workplace scenarios demanding supervisory/management action.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 2 year(s)
15. Cisco Secure Virtual Private Networks (CSVPN)
This authorized class prepares you for Cisco Exam 642-511 CSVPN. CISCO security certifications focus on the growing need for knowledgeable network professionals who can implement complete security solutions. CISCO VPN Specialists can configure VPNs across shared public networks using CISCO IOS Software and CISCO VPN 3000 Series Concentrator technologies.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 2 year(s)
16. Certified Master Safe Technician (CMST)
A CMST has successfully demonstrated advanced proficiency in safe and vault related categories.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
17. Physical Security Certification (PSC)
The Physical Security Certification (PSC) is ideal for DoD, Industry, and federal members performing physical security functions.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 2 year(s)
18. Board Certification in Criminal Trial Law
Board Certification is a rigorous testing and approval process that officially recognizes the extensive education and courtroom experience of our attorneys. NBLSC provides Board Certification for Trial Lawyers, Civil Lawyers, Criminal Lawyers, Family Lawyers and Social Security Disability Lawyers.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 5 year(s)
19. Certified Protection Officer (CPO)
The CPO program is designed for protection professionals intent on improving their individual security skills. Successful CPO's are finding that the program significantly improves job performance and job enjoyment by providing a broader understanding of the roles, duties and responsibilities of the protection officer.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 2 year(s)
20. Certified Safety Professional (CSP)
CSP candidates must have professional safety experience. The exact number of years depends on their degree(s) and if they hold OHST/CLCS or CHST certification. BCSP has a broad definition of safety. Professional-level work experience in safety, health, environmental protection, fire protection, ergonomics, radiation protection and industrial hygiene is considered professional safety experience.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 5 year(s)
What is the best certification for a security guard?
The best security guard certification is Security 5 Certification. The Security 5 Certification is awarded by the EC-Council.
Here's a bit more background on how to obtain this security guard certification:
- To become a certified Security 5 Certification, you need to pass the exam.
- Lucky you - certification doesn't require more than two years of work experience.
- Renew certification every 3 year.
What are some of the most in-demand certifications for security guards?
The most in-demand security guard certification is Certified Protection Officer based on all active job postings. Having this security guard certification will give you access to more security guard jobs with higher salaries.
What certifications can impact a security guard career and salary?
The Commercial Driver License certification will help you to secure a driver position, which will increase your pay and career trajectory. A driver's average salary is $29,560 whereas security guards make an average salary of $31,983.
The most common combination of security guard certifications include: Security 5 Certification, Commercial Driver License (CDL), and OSHA Safety Certificate .
Online courses for security guards to earn certifications
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9. CCNP,CCIE Security SCOR (350-701) Training Part-2/2
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10. Cyber Security: Awareness For Everyone (2023)
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13. CCNP,CCIE Security SCOR (350-701) Training Part-1/2
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14. Fire Safety and Prevention Planning
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16. IT Security 101 - Cyber Security for Beginners
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