How to become a Armed Security Officer in Oregon?

To become an Armed Security Officer in Oregon, you must meet specific requirements and complete a series of training and certification steps governed by the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST). Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process:(defensivefirearmsinstruction.org)

✅ Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, you must:

• Be at least 21 years old for armed certification.

• Hold a high school diploma, GED, or higher degree from an accredited institution.

• Demonstrate good moral fitness, which includes passing a criminal background check and meeting mental health criteria.

• Not be prohibited from possessing firearms due to mental health commitments or legal restrictions. (Oregon.State, Security Training Center, Oregon.State)

🛡️ Step-by-Step Certification Process

1. Complete Unarmed Security Certification

   • Before pursuing armed certification, you must first complete the 14-hour Unarmed Security Professional course, which covers topics like legal standards, patrol procedures, and emergency response. (Oregon Firearms Training)

2. Enroll in a DPSST-Certified Armed Security Course

   • This is a 24-hour training program spread over three days:

     • Days 1 & 2: Classroom instruction on firearm safety, legal responsibilities, and use-of-force policies.

     • Day 3: Live-fire range qualification, where you'll need to pass the DPSST PQC-1 Handgun Qualification Course.

3. Submit Application to DPSST

   • After completing the training, submit the following to DPSST within 180 days:

     • Form PS-1: Application for Licensure or Certification.

     • Form PS-6: Affidavit of Instructor and Private Security Provider Testing Results.

     • Fingerprint card: For background check purposes.

     • Certification fees: Nonrefundable and vary depending on the certification.

4. Maintain Certification

   • Certification Validity: Your armed certification is valid for two years.

   • Annual Requirements: You must complete an annual firearms qualification for each firearm make, model, and caliber you intend to use while performing security services. (Rogue Protection Group, defensivefirearmsinstruction.org, Security Training Center, Oregon.State)

📍 Training Providers in Oregon

Several DPSST-certified training providers offer courses across Oregon:

Defensive Firearms Instruction
4.8 (80 reviews)
1480 18th St, Springfield, OR 97477
Offers comprehensive 24-hour DPSST Armed Security Certification courses, including classroom and range training.

Rogue Protection Group
Sports and Recreation
2185 NE Spalding Ave (NE Agness), Grants Pass, OR 97526
Provides a 24-hour DPSST Armed Security course with classroom sessions and range qualification.

Knights School
3.7 (3 reviews)
202 E Evergreen Blvd Basement Suite A, Vancouver, WA 98660
Specializes in DPSST-approved armed and unarmed security license training courses for Oregon.

Northwest Defense Academy
5.0 (46 reviews)
4857 Airway Dr STE 100, Medford, OR 97502
Provides a 24-hour DPSST Armed Security Certification course with experienced instructors and range qualification.

💡 Additional Tips

• Application Timeline: Ensure you submit your application within 180 days of completing your training.

• Firearm Qualifications: Stay current with annual firearm qualifications to maintain your certification.

• Employer Requirements: Some employers may have additional requirements or provide assistance with the certification process.(defensivefirearmsinstruction.org, Oregon.State)