Armed & Unarmed Security Guard Training

Prepare for Arizona security work with training from Arrow Security and Arizona Guard Cards. Compare the unarmed and armed pathways, understand what each requires, and register for the current class that fits your goals.

Security guard firearms training at an outdoor range

Training for the security work you want to do.

Arizona security guard training is not one size fits all. Unarmed assignments begin with core preassignment training. Armed assignments add firearms instruction and live-fire qualification.

Arrow Security provides both training pathways through Arizona Guard Cards, with direct access to current class formats, dates, fees, equipment information, and registration details.

Armed and unarmed training options

Choose the path that matches the type of security work you plan to perform.

Unarmed Security Guard Training

Arizona requires eight hours of preassignment training covering orientation, criminal law, uniform standards, communications, use of force, general procedures, crime scenes, ethics, and first response. Arrow currently offers online and in-person options.

View Unarmed Training

Armed Security Guard Training

Arizona requires armed guards to complete additional DPS-approved firearms training. Arrow's current armed course includes classroom instruction, use-of-force considerations, a written examination, and live-fire qualification.

View Armed Training

Registration and Fingerprints

Training is one part of the registration process. Applicants must follow the current Arizona DPS application, fingerprint, fee, and documentation instructions for their situation.

Review DPS Requirements

Additional Skills Training

Arrow also offers supporting instruction such as defensive tactics, judgmental firearms simulation, emergency response, pepper spray, handcuffing, and impact-weapon training. Availability varies by course.

Explore Training

Your path from training to registration

Use current course and Arizona DPS information at every step.

1

Choose Your Path

Select armed or unarmed training based on the security work you intend to perform.

2

Complete Training

Finish the required instruction and any examination or firearms qualification that applies.

3

Apply Through DPS

Follow the current Arizona DPS application, fingerprint, fee, and documentation process.

4

Confirm Your Status

Verify that your registration is active before working a security post.

Armed security guard training class

Know what class completion does and does not mean.

Completing a class does not automatically issue a guard card, guarantee Arizona DPS approval, or guarantee employment. DPS determines registration eligibility after reviewing the application and required background information.

A concealed-weapons permit also does not replace armed-guard registration or an employer’s authorization to carry a firearm while working. On-duty armed security work requires the credential and agency authorization that apply to the assignment.

Course formats, dates, prices, equipment needs, range fees, and renewal requirements can change. Review the live registration page before enrolling.

Security guard training questions

Start with the role you want, then confirm the current class and registration requirements.

Choose the unarmed pathway for unarmed security work. Armed security work requires the applicable guard registration plus additional firearms training and qualification. If an employer has given you specific instructions, confirm the correct course with that employer or Arrow before registering.

No. Training is part of the process. Arizona DPS reviews the application, fingerprints, background information, fees, and supporting documents and determines whether a registration is issued.

No. A concealed-weapons permit and an armed security guard registration serve different purposes. A CCW permit by itself does not authorize someone to carry a firearm while working as a security guard.

Use the Arizona Guard Cards registration pages linked here. They are the best source for current formats, dates, fees, prerequisites, equipment needs, and enrollment availability.

Start with the training path that fits your goals.

Compare current class options through Arizona Guard Cards or call Arrow Security at 602‑863‑1022.