So You Wanna Be a Florida Fancy-Pants Guard, Huh? Your Guide to Getting a Guard Card
Ever dreamt of being the beacon of security in a retirement home, striking fear into the hearts of rogue squirrels, or becoming the world's most official-looking traffic cone enthusiast? Well, my friend, then becoming a security guard in Florida might be the path for you! But before you strap on your utility belt (fanny pack totally works too), there's a little hurdle to jump – the almighty guard card.
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| How To Get A Guard Card In Florida |
Don't worry, this ain't rocket surgery (unless you're guarding a rocket, then maybe it is)
Getting your guard card is a breeze, easier than explaining to your grandma why you can't "like" her Facebook posts anymore. Here's what you need to do:
Note: Skipping ahead? Don’t miss the middle sections.
- Be 18 and Owning It: You gotta be an adult for this one, no skipping nap time to become a hall monitor extraordinaire.
- Be a US Citizen or Legal Resident: This one's pretty self-explanatory. You can't guard Fort Knox if they can't even let you in the country.
- Pass a Background Check: No robbing banks before you start protecting them. Unless it's a game of Monopoly, then by all means, go for it.
- High School Diploma or Equivalent: Turns out, writing good can be helpful when writing reports about that suspicious pigeon hanging around the dumpster.
- 40-Hour Security Officer Training: Buckle up for some fun lessons! Learn how to de-escalate situations (like when someone cuts in line for the office toaster), CPR (because even security guards gotta save lives sometimes), and the laws that make Florida, well, Florida.
Pro Tip: When taking the training, take notes! You might actually learn something useful, like how to politely tell someone to stop feeding the alligators in the swamp (seriously, don't do that).
Tip: Don’t rush — enjoy the read.
Apply, Apply, Apply!
Once you've got the training under your belt, it's time to apply for your official guard card. You can do this online or in person at the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (don't worry, it's not all about cows and corn). You'll need to submit fingerprints, photos (think "smoldering security guard stare"), and a fee (because, well, gotta pay the bills).
Tip: Revisit this page tomorrow to reinforce memory.
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Then, the waiting game begins! But don't worry, while you wait, you can practice your authoritative voice in the mirror. "Stop right there! ...Can you please not leave your shopping cart in the middle of the parking lot?"
Tip: Check back if you skimmed too fast.
Hold on tight to your excitement! Once your application is approved, you'll be a certified guardian of Florida! Time to dust off those khaki pants and get ready to make the Sunshine State a safer place (or at least make sure no one steals the pool floats).
FAQ: Guard Card Guru at Your Service!
- How to find a security guard training course? The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has a list of approved schools on their website (https://licensing.fdacs.gov/access/individual.aspx).
- How long does it take to get a guard card? It typically takes 4-6 weeks to process your application.
- How much does it cost to get a guard card? The total cost can vary depending on the training school and application fees, but it's usually around $200.
- Can I become an armed security guard? Yes, but you'll need additional training and a separate license for that.
- Is being a security guard glamorous? Maybe not in the Hollywood action movie way, but it can be a rewarding career where you make a difference. Plus, you get to wear a cool uniform (sometimes with a snazzy hat!).
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