South Dakota Security Training Courses

Minimum Requirements for Unarmed Security Guards in South Dakota

The state of South Dakota does not license or regulate unarmed or armed security guards. However, individual cities and municipalities may have their own requirements. 

While the state does not stipulate the minimum qualifications of an unarmed security guard, most security companies follow these industry hiring guidelines:

• Must be at least 18 years old with provisions that the candidate must be able to perform the duties required of the position

• Must be a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, or an alien authorized to work

• Must possess a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent. Also, the applicant should demonstrate an ability to read, write, and speak English and the language(s) most appropriate to his or her assigned duties.

• Successfully pass a background check

• Must not have been convicted of or pled guilty or nolo contendere to a felony or job related crime for a minimum seven-year period immediately preceding the candidate’s date of hire. Any felony conviction discovered in the course of conducting the search should also be considered relevant to the candidate’s qualifications for the position.

• Submission of a fingerprint card or electronic fingerprint

• Pass a drug screening test

Licensing Requirements for Security Guards in the State of South Dakota

Each city or municipality has its own licensing requirements (if any). Only some are listed here, so check with your local City Clerk or Police Department. 

City of Rapid City

Rapid City requires security businesses to be licensed through the City Finance Office. To be licensed, a company must:

• Submit a notarized application: https://www.rcgov.org/index.php?option=com_docman&view=download&alias=297-finance-taxi-license&category_slug=finance-department&Itemid=149 

• Pay a fee

• Submit fingerprints and complete a background check

The license must be renewed every two years.

A list of license holders is available here: https://www.rcgov.org/departments/finance/license-holders-262.html 

City of Pierre

The city of Pierre requires merchant security companies to be licensed. To be licensed, a company must:

• Submit an application: https://www.cityofpierre.org/454/Contractor-Business-Licensing 

• Not have been convicted of a felony

• Not be addicted to the use of intoxicating liquor or controlled drugs or substances

• Not employ anyone who has been convicted of a felony or is addicted to the use of intoxicating liquor or controlled drugs or substances

• Pay a fee

• Carry general liability insurance in the sum of $100,000 per person and $300,000 per occurrence

• Carry an identification card

The license must be renewed annually.

More information: https://www.cityofpierre.org/DocumentCenter/View/223/Article-15---Merchant-Security-PDF  

City of Watertown

The city of Watertown requires security guard businesses to be licensed. To be licensed, a company must:

• Submit an application: https://www.watertownsd.us/158/City-Business-Licenses 

• Pay a fee

Streamlined Path to a Security Guard License in South Dakota with Top Gun Security Academy

Getting a security guard license in South Dakota can be a streamlined process with the right training and resources. Top Gun Security Academy offers comprehensive training courses designed to equip aspiring security professionals with the skills they need to succeed. Whether you are new to the field or looking to update your credentials, their online classes provide a convenient and effective way to prepare for your security career.

One of the key requirements for obtaining a security guard license in South Dakota is completing a certified training course. Top Gun Security Academy’s online courses are structured to cover all the essential topics that will be on the licensing exam and more. By enrolling in their classes, you can study from anywhere, at any time, making it easier to balance your training with other commitments. Their curriculum includes real-world scenarios and expert guidance to ensure that students are not only prepared to pass their exams but also to excel in their duties once they start working.

Upon completion of the required course, participants will receive a "guard card South Dakota," which is necessary to officially work as a licensed security officer in the state. The process to obtain your security guard license in South Dakota involves a few straightforward steps including background checks and application submissions, which Top Gun Security Academy will help you navigate. With their dedicated support and comprehensive training, you’ll be well-prepared to launch a rewarding career in security, equipped with the knowledge and credentials needed to protect and serve with confidence.