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Security Training Courses Portland

How to obtain your security license

Below are the steps on how to obtain your Oregon DPSST Armed and Unarmed Security Professional Certification. The process for unarmed Professional is the same for Alarm Monitor Professional. 

SW Security Training Portland Metro Security Training

Step-by-step checklist for getting your DPSST Unarmed Security Professional certification in Oregon:

  1. Find a DPSST Certified Unarmed Security Instructor. SW Security Training, is owned and operated by Steven Williams PSID 053293, a DPSST Certified Unarmed Security Instructor. 

  2. Confirm eligibility
    You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma, GED, or qualifying post-secondary degree, and meet DPSST moral-fitness/background standards.

  3. Complete the DPSST Basic Unarmed Security Training
    Attend and pass the required 14-hour Unarmed Basic course through a DPSST certified instructor.

  4. Receive your PS-6
    After successful completion, the instructor completes the Form PS-6 Training Affidavit. DPSST notes the PS-6 is only available after completing a private security course.

  5. Complete the PS-1 application
    Fill out Form PS-1, Application for Licensure or Certification of Private Security Services Provider.

  6. Complete fingerprints
    Submit a completed fingerprint card or proof of completed Fieldprint electronic fingerprints.

  7. Submit required fees
    Include DPSST’s nonrefundable certification fees. DPSST states payments are non-refundable and non-transferable.

  8. Submit a PS-20 if already employed
    If working for a security company before final certification, submit a PS-20 Temporary Work Permit. It must be submitted on or before the first day of providing security services, is employer-specific, and may be held up to 120 days.

  9. Send the full packet to DPSST
    Your packet should include:
    PS-1, fingerprints/Fieldprint proof, PS-6, PS-20 if employed, and fees.

  10. Wait for DPSST review
    DPSST reviews the application, training, fingerprints, and background/moral-fitness information.

  11. Receive certification
    Once approved, you are certified as an Oregon DPSST Unarmed Security Professional.

 

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*Important: Do not provide private security services unless you have a valid DPSST certification or a properly submitted PS-20 temporary work permit.

Step-by-step checklist for obtaining your Oregon DPSST Armed Security Professional certification:

  1. Find a DPSST Certified Firearms Instructor. SW Security Training, is owned and operated by Steven Williams PSID 053293, a DPSST Certified Firearms Instructor. 

  2. First obtain or qualify for Unarmed certification
    Armed certification builds on the private security professional process. Most applicants complete the DPSST Unarmed Security Professional certification first.

  3. Meet eligibility requirements
    You must meet DPSST’s age (21), education, background, and moral-fitness standards. DPSST requires a complete application packet, fingerprints for new applicants, required training proof, and fees.

  4. Complete the DPSST Basic Armed / Firearms course
    Complete the required minimum 24-hour Basic Firearms course, including classroom instruction and written exam. The safe gun-handling test, and marksmanship qualification are excluded from the 24 hour classroom course. Expect approximately 2-4 hours on the range in addition to the 24 hour classroom portion.

  5. Qualify with your firearm
    Handgun qualification must be conducted by a DPSST certified private security firearms instructor using DPSST qualification standards and targets. You must qualify on the handgun you wish to carry while working. 

  6. Receive your PS-6
    After successful completion, your instructor completes the PS-6 Training Affidavit documenting your armed training and testing results.

  7. Complete the PS-1 application
    Fill out Form PS-1, Application for Licensure or Certification of Private Security Services Provider.

  8. Submit fingerprints if required
    New applicants must submit fingerprints or proof of completed Fieldprint electronic fingerprints. If you already have your Unarmed security professional license, no fingerprints are required. 

  9. Submit required DPSST fees
    Include the applicable nonrefundable certification/licensure fees. DPSST notes background fees/fingerprints are generally required for new applicants. The fee when adding or upgrading certification can be found on the DPSST website.

  10. Submit PS-20 if currently employed
    If you are currently employed and eligible to work under a temporary work permit, include the PS-20 Temporary Work Permit.

  11. Submit PS-23 if adding Armed certification
    If you are already certified and are adding Armed certification, DPSST lists PS-23 Change of Information as part of the packet.

  12. Send the complete packet to DPSST
    Your packet generally includes:
    PS-1, PS-6, fingerprints/Fieldprint proof if required, PS-20 if applicable, PS-23 if adding Armed, and fees.

  13. Wait for DPSST approval
    DPSST reviews your application, training, background, and documentation.

  14. Maintain certification annually
    Armed private security professionals must complete the firearms marksmanship qualification and armed refresher course annually.

 

*Important: Do not carry or work armed as private security in Oregon unless DPSST has approved your Armed certification or you are otherwise legally authorized under DPSST rules.

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