Yes, if it is required by your employer. The uniform must not contain the word "police" or any other word suggesting a law-enforcement officer; be worn while on duty; and include at least 1 insignia clearly identifying the name of the licensed firm, and a name plate or tape bearing, as a minimum, your last name, as described under 6 VAC 20-171-320.17 of the state regulations.
Private Security FAQs
Do I have to wear a uniform?
Do registered armed security officers have arrest powers?
Yes, Title 9.1-146 of the Code of Virginia limits the power of arrest for an offense occurring in his presence on such premises or in the presence of a merchant, agent, or employee of the merchant the private security business has contracted to protect, if the merchant, agent, or employee had probable cause to believe that the person arrested had shoplifted or committed willful concealment of goods.
What are the in-service training requirements?
8-11 hours -- 01I security officer core subjects in-service (4 hours) + 07R handgun retraining (4 hours) + 08R shotgun retraining, if applicable (3 hours)
What are the entry-level training requirements?
50 hours -- 01E security officer core subjects (18 hours) + 05E armed security officer arrest authority (8 hours) + 75Esecurity officer handgun training (24 hours) + 08E shotgun training if applicable (3 hours)
Do I have to be trained before I can work?
Yes. You must have completed all required training and have a current registration in order to work in this registered category.
Do I have to have a registration before I can work?
Yes. You must have a current registration in order to work in this registered category.
How Do I Apply and Renew an Armed Security Officer/Courier Registration
For information on how to apply, please see visit the Armed Security Officer/Courier page.
What type of license/registration/certification must I have?
You must possess a valid registration in this category and a firearms endorsement.
What is a courier?
Any armed person who transports or offers to transport from one place to another documents or other papers, negotiable or nonnegotiable instruments, or other small items of value that require expeditious service.
What does armed mean?
A private security registrant who carries or has immediate access to a firearm in the performance of his duties.
What is an armed security officer?
A person employed to safeguard and protect persons and property or deter theft, loss, concealment of any tangible or intangible personal property on the premises he is contracted to protect, and who carries or has access to a firearm in the performance of his duties.