How to Get Your Florida Class D Security License
Complete 2026 Step-by-Step Guide for Unarmed Security Officers
Quick Reference: Requirements & Fees
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Training | 40-hour state-approved course (Class “DS” school) |
| Background Check | Clean record (no felonies; limited misdemeanors) |
| Fingerprints | FDLE Live Scan electronic submission required |
State Fees Breakdown
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Class D Application Fee | $45.00 |
| Fingerprint Processing Fee | ~$42.00 |
| Fingerprint Retention Fee | ~$10.75 |
| Total State Fees | ~$98.00 |
Note: Security school tuition (40-hour training) is additional and varies by provider.
STEP 1 Complete the 40-Hour Training Course
Before you can apply for your Class D license, Florida law requires you to complete a comprehensive 40-hour security officer training program. This curriculum is split into two parts:
- Course A (24 hours): Legal framework, emergency procedures, ethics, patrol techniques, report writing, crime prevention, and terrorism awareness
- Course B (16 hours): Public relations, interpersonal communication, crowd control, traffic direction, and special security problems
You must attend a state-approved training school holding a Class “DS” license. Upon completion, you’ll receive a Certificate of Security Officer Training (Form FDACS-16103).
Both courses include examinations requiring a 75% passing score.
→ View Complete Curriculum Breakdown
STEP 2 Get Electronic Fingerprints & Background Check
Florida requires all security license applicants to submit fingerprints electronically through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Live Scan system. Here’s what you need to know:
Before getting fingerprinted, contact FDACS Division of Licensing to request your ORI (Originating Agency Identifier) number. This 9-character code ensures your fingerprint results are routed correctly to FDACS. Without it, your application will be delayed.
- Select an FDLE-approved Live Scan service provider (verify on the FDLE website)
- Bring two valid government-issued IDs (one with photo and signature)
- Provide your ORI number to the Live Scan operator
- Fingerprints are digitally captured and electronically submitted to FDLE
- Processing time: Typically 3–5 business days
STEP 3 Submit Your Application (FDACS-16001)
Once your training is complete and fingerprints are processed, you’re ready to submit your application to FDACS. You’ll need:
- Completed Class D application form
- Copy of your FDACS-16103 training certificate
- Fingerprint receipt from Live Scan provider
- Passport-style color photograph (taken within 6 months)
- Valid photo ID (driver’s license or state ID)
- Criminal history statement (disclose ALL convictions, guilty pleas, and nolo contendere pleas)
- Application fee payment ($45 + fingerprint fees)
Submission Options:
- By Mail:
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
Division of Licensing
P.O. Box 5767
Tallahassee, FL 32314-5767 - In-Person: Visit your nearest FDACS regional office
Processing Time: Typically 2–4 weeks after submission. Your Class D license is valid for 2 years and requires no annual requalification (unlike Class G armed licenses).
Disqualifying Offenses: The “Moral Turpitude” Rule
Florida Statute 493 establishes strict eligibility standards to ensure only individuals of “good moral character” work as security officers. Understanding these disqualifications is critical:
- Felony Convictions: 10-year waiting period after final release from supervision + restoration of civil rights required
- Crimes of Moral Turpitude: Offenses involving dishonesty, fraud, violence, or breach of trust trigger waiting periods of 3, 5, or 10 years depending on severity
- Multiple DUIs: 2+ DUI convictions within 3 years preceding application
- Mental Health: Adjudication of incompetence or involuntary commitment (unless judicially restored)
- Outstanding Warrants: Any active bench warrants or capias
Withheld Adjudication Exception: If a felony resulted in withheld adjudication (nolo contendere plea), the waiting period is reduced to 3 years, though it creates a rebuttable presumption of guilt.
→ See Complete FAQ on Disqualifying Offenses
Class D vs. Class G: Unarmed vs. Armed Security
Many security professionals start with Class D and later upgrade to Class G (armed) for expanded job opportunities. Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | Class D (Unarmed) | Class G (Armed) |
|---|---|---|
| Authorization | Unarmed security duties only | Carry handgun on duty (with employer authorization) |
| Training Hours | 40 hours (classroom only) | 28 hours additional (20 classroom + max 8 range) Requires Class D first |
| License Duration | 2 years | 2 years |
| Requalification | None required | Mandatory 4 hours annually (failure = suspension) |
| Medical Exam | Not required | Yes (physician certification of fitness to bear firearm) |
| Renewal Fee | Varies | $112 per renewal |
| Can Hold Both? | YES — Both licenses must be active to legally work armed | |
Official Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services Portal