8-Hour vs. 16-Hour Security Guard Training: What’s the Difference?
If you’re looking to become a licensed security guard in New York, you’ve likely heard about the 8-hour and 16-hour training requirements. But what exactly are they? Which one comes first? And why do you need both?
At Star Security Training, we get these questions all the time. Let’s break it down.
🕗 The 8-Hour Pre-Assignment Training: Your First Step
The 8-Hour Pre-Assignment Training Course is mandatory before you can apply for your New York State Security Guard Registration.
What You’ll Learn:
- The role and responsibilities of a security guard
- Legal powers and limitations
- Emergency procedures
- Access control
- Ethics and conduct
What Happens After?
Once you complete the course and pass the exam, you’ll receive a certificate that allows you to apply for a Security Guard Registration Card with the NYS Department of State.
📝 Pro Tip: You must apply for your license immediately after this training, or you won’t be eligible to start working.
📚 The 16-Hour On-the-Job Training: The Second Piece
Within 90 days of being hired, you’re required to complete the 16-Hour On-the-Job Training Course. While this is the case, we recommend taking the 16 hour training immediately after the 8 hour preassignment to be a more competitive job applicant.
What You’ll Learn:
- Advanced incident response
- Communication and reporting
- Patrol techniques
- Terrorism awareness
- Real-world security scenarios
This course is designed to prepare you for the actual demands of the job, building on the foundation of the 8-hour class.
🚨 Key Differences at a Glance:
| Feature | 8-Hour Pre-Assignment | 16-Hour On-the-Job |
|---|---|---|
| When to Take | Before applying for license | Within 90 days of employment (Immediately after 8 hour pre-assignment is recommended.) |
| Duration | 1 day | 2 days |
| Goal | Get licensed | Get trained for real work |
| Exam | Required | Required |
| Certificate | Required to apply for license | Required to keep your license active |
🛡️ Why You Need Both
Completing both courses ensures you’re not only legally certified but also professionally prepared. Employers look for candidates who have completed both trainings—and many won’t hire you unless you have.
🎓 Ready to Start?
At Star Security Training, we offer both the 8-Hour and 16-Hour courses every week with no appointment necessary. Just arrive by 8 AM to register.
📍1891 Fulton Street, Brooklyn, NY 11233
📞 Call or text us: 718-773-5000
🌐 starsecuritytraining.com
