Embarking on a career as a protective agent in Minnesota opens doors to a dynamic and crucial field where you can play a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of others. Whether you're drawn to executive protection, dignitary security, or other specialized security services, the journey to becoming a licensed protective agent involves a combination of dedication, experience, and training. In this guide, we'll explore the essential steps and qualifications required for aspiring protective agents in Minnesota.
Do You Need a License to Be a Security Guard in Minnesota?
You do not need a license to operate as an unarmed security guard in the state of Minnesota, provided you are employed by a licensed protective agent or a licensed security organization. As a security guard, you can work in a variety of settings, such as shopping malls, hospitals, apartment buildings, corporate offices, and more.
If you wish to work independently or open your own security business, however, you must receive your protective agent license as well as fulfill 6,000 hours of experience in a security-related field. The Minnesota Board of Private Detective and Protective Agent Services oversees the licensure of protective agents in the state.
Minimum Requirements for Becoming a Security Guard in Minnesota
Before receiving your protective agent license, you need qualified work experience as a security guard or related role. To work as a security guard in the state of Minnesota, you must meet the following requirements:
If you intend to work as an armed security guard, you’ll need to meet the following additional requirements:
Minimum Requirements for Becoming a Protective Agent in Minnesota
In order to become a licensed protective agent in Minnesota, you need to meet some basic qualifications. For both armed and unarmed protective agents, you should meet the following criteria:
Additionally, you should have a minimum of 6,000 hours of protective employment experience in one or more of the following:
Armed Protective Agents Qualifications
Protective agents who intend to carry firearms must meet a few more requirements in order to be considered for licensure. If you aim to become an armed security guard, you should meet the following criteria:
How to Receive Your Protective Agent License in Minnesota
Follow the steps below to receive your protective agent license in MN.
Meet the Basic Requirements
Be sure you meet the basic requirements before applying for your protective agent license in Minnesota. If you don’t meet these requirements, you will not be able to receive a license.
Complete the Required Training
You then need to complete 12 hours of pre-assignment training from a qualified security training organization. This training covers professional security guard communication, the legality of the profession, situational awareness, ethics, patrol methods, and more.
Complete the Minnesota Protective Agent Pre-Assignment Training with NITA →
Complete Firearm Training (Armed Protective Agents)
Armed protective agents will need to complete 12 hours of firearm training with an approved firearms instructor in addition to the 12 hours of pre-assignment training. You’ll need to submit a certificate of completion or diploma once you’ve completed the firearms training.
Complete and Submit a Protective Agent Application
Once you’ve completed the required training, you can complete and submit your application for licensure. You’ll also need to submit the $25 application fee as well as the appropriate license fee.
The license fees for an individual applying for a security guard license are as follows:
How Long Does it Take to Become a Licensed Protective Agent in MN?
Since protective agents need at least 6,000 hours of protective employment experience in order to be eligible for licensure, you need to work as a security guard or related professional for about three years prior to applying. You’ll then need to complete your 12 hours of pre-assignment training and firearms training (if you intend to become an armed protective agent).
Salaries of Security Guards and Protective Agents in Minnesota
The salary of security guards and protective agents in Minnesota ranges widely. Here are some salary estimates of security guards and protective agents in the state as determined by Indeed.com.
Unarmed Security Guard Salary
Unarmed security guards in Minnesota can make between $15 and $22 per hour, with many averaging around $18 per hour. The annual salary of an unarmed security guard is between $34,000 and $52,000.
Armed Security Guard Salary
Armed security guards in Minnesota can make between $19 and $25 per hour, with many averaging around $22 per hour. The annual salary of an armed security guard is between $49,000 and $60,000.
Protective Agent Salary
Protective agents in Minnesota can make between $12 and $38 per hour, with the average being a little over $21 per hour. The annual salary of a protective agent can be as low as $24,000 per year but can reach up to $77,000 with appropriate experience and training.
Since most protective agents are sole proprietors, members of LLPs, or corporations, a set salary is not always guaranteed. Additionally, armed protective agents are likely to receive a higher salary than unarmed protective agents.
Discover a Rewarding Career as a Protective Agent in Minnesota
Trust NITA to be your security and protection education partner! NITA is an approved training provider for the 12-hour Pre-Assignment Training required for protective agents in Minnesota. Best of all? All our courses are available 100% online and 100% on-demand, which means you can complete the required pre-assignment training on your own time.
Ready? Take the Minnesota Protective Agent Pre-Assignment Training today →
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