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)
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)
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)
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.
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.
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)
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.
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)