If you're a licensed security officer in Florida, keeping your Class D Security License current is essential to staying compliant and employed. Whether you're nearing your expiration date or simply planning ahead, understanding the renewal process can help you avoid delays and legal complications. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how often you need to renew, what steps to take, required documentation, and what to do if your license has expired.
How Often Do You Need to Renew a Florida Class D Security License?
In Florida, a Class D Security Guard License must be renewed every two years. Approximately 95 days before your license expires, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) will send a renewal notice to your last known address. To make sure you renew your license on time, mark your calendar with your license's expiration date and initiate the renewal process promptly upon receiving the notice. If your license has been expired for more than a year, you may need to submit a new application and possibly retake the initial security training.
Learn more: How to Become a Security Guard in Florida: A Comprehensive Guide to Getting Your FL Security License
How to Renew a Florida Class D Security License
Renewing your Florida Class D Security Guard License is a straightforward process managed by the FDACS. Here's a step-by-step guide to make the process as simple as possible.
1. Receive Renewal Notification
Approximately 95 days before your license expires, FDACS will mail a renewal notice to your last known address. Make sure your current address is updated in their system ahead of time to prevent any delays.
2. Choose Your Renewal Method
There are a few ways to renew your Class D security license. Online renewal is perhaps the easiest and most convenient method, though in-person and by-mail renewal are also possible.
Online Renewal
- Upload any documents and your passport-style photo before beginning the application.
- Visit the FDACS online portal.
- Enter your license number and follow the prompts to complete the renewal process.
- Pay the renewal fee using a credit or debit card.
Renewal By Mail
- Complete the renewal form, making sure everything is clear and legible.
- Include a check or money order for the renewal fee.
- Mail the documents to the address specified on the renewal notice.
In-Person Renewal
- Visit a regional FDACS office.
- Bring your completed renewal form and payment.
3. Complete the Renewal Application
Fill out the renewal form provided by FDACS. The form requires you to fill out any updated personal information, current employment details, disclosure of any legal issues, and a signed attestation. As always, make sure all information provided is true and correct, or your renewal may be denied.
4. Submit Required Documentation
Be sure to include any required documentation, including a current, passport-style photo (taken within the last 6 months). The photo should meet standard identification criteria: clear, front-facing, and against a neutral background. If you've completed any additional required training or requalification courses since your last renewal, include any applicable documentation or certificates.
5. Pay the Renewal Fee
The renewal fee for a Class D license is $45. Additionally, a fingerprint retention fee of $16.75 is required in addition to the $45 renewal fee. If renewing, you can pay the fee directly online via the portal. If paying by mail, be sure to include a check or money order.
Frequently Asked Questions About Class D Security Guard License Renewal
Though Florida Class D license renewal is a fairly straightforward process, there are a few commonly asked questions security guards have once it’s time for their renewal period.
How do I check the status of my Class D license renewal?
You can check your renewal status by logging into the FDACS online portal using your license number and personal info.
What if my Class D license is expired?
If your Class D license has expired, you can still renew it within three months by submitting the renewal application along with the standard $45 fee and an additional late fee of $45.
However, if your license has been expired for more than three months but less than one year, you must reapply as a new applicant, which may include resubmitting fingerprints and undergoing a background check. After one year, your license is considered null, and you’ll be required to complete the 40-hour training course again and start the licensing process from the beginning.
Can I work while my renewal is being processed?
No, you cannot legally work as a security guard in Florida if your Class D license is expired, even if your renewal is pending. Thankfully, the FDACS turns license renewals around fairly quickly, so you should be able to return to work fairly quickly.
Do I need to retake the 40-hour training course to renew my Class D license?
No, the 40-hour training is only required for new applicants. Renewal does not require retraining unless your license has been expired for more than one year.
License expired? Take the FL Class D Security training course from NITA → | Sign up for our Florida Class G License Training →
Can I upgrade from a Class D to Class G security license?
Yes, you can upgrade your license by obtaining a Class G Statewide Firearm License, which authorizes you to work as an armed security guide. To be eligible for a Class G license, you must first hold a valid Class D Security Officer License, so make sure you’re up to date on that first!
Learn more: Class D & Class G Security License Explained
Getting your Class G license involves completing 28 hours of firearms training through a licensed instructor approved by the FDACS. This training covers legal aspects of firearm use, operational safety, and includes a firearms qualification component. After successfully completing the training, you can apply for the Class G license by submitting proof of training, undergoing a background check, and paying the applicable fees.
Learn more: Armed vs. Unarmed Security Guards: What’s The Difference?
Maintain Compliance with Confidence
Renewing your Florida Class D Security License doesn’t have to be complicated as long as you stay informed and act early. By following the proper steps, submitting the correct documentation, and meeting renewal deadlines, you can continue working without interruption.
To keep your security guard skills sharp, choose NITA! Our continuing education and professional development courses are 100% online and 100% on demand, so you don’t have to miss a beat in your career.
Need training? Take the Florida Security D Online Training from NITA → | Sign up for NITA's Florida Class G License Training →
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