Training costs should never be the reason someone stays out of a good career. If you live in New York City, the Workforce1 program can cover the full cost of your security guard training — and Star Security Training is an approved Workforce1 partner. Here is how the program works and how to use it.
What is Workforce1?
Workforce1 is a job-training and placement program run by the NYC Department of Small Business Services. Through its Career Centers across the five boroughs, eligible New Yorkers receive training vouchers that pay for approved career training — including security guard certification.
What the Voucher Covers
Approved candidates receive vouchers good for free 8-Hour Pre-Assignment Training, free 16-Hour On-The-Job Training, and license processing. That is the complete required training path to a NYS security guard registration, covered.
Who Qualifies for Free Training?
Workforce1 decides who qualifies, not the training school. In general, you need to be at least 18, live in New York City, and meet the program's requirements, which include an income limit. Counselors at the Career Center confirm the current rules when you register.
Two honest notes before you go. First, funding is limited and competitive, so not everyone who applies receives a voucher. Second, the process takes some time: you register, meet with a counselor, and get approved before the voucher is issued. If you need to start work right away, or you don't qualify, our regular prices are $100 for the 8-Hour Pre-Assignment course and $200 for the 16-Hour OJT, and you can walk in and start the same day.
How to Use It — Step by Step
First, visit your local Workforce1 Career Center and tell them you want security guard training. They will check your eligibility — the program serves NYC residents who are looking for work, and counselors will walk you through the requirements.
Second, once approved, request Star Security Training as your training provider. We are an approved provider, and our Brooklyn facility at 1891 Fulton Street, Suite F is steps from the Ralph Avenue C train.
Third, bring your voucher to class. Walk-ins are welcome Monday through Saturday — arrive by 8:00 AM with your voucher and a government-issued photo ID, and you can start training the same day.
Workforce1 Career Centers Are in Every Borough
You can register for Workforce1 at a Career Center in Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, the Bronx or Staten Island, or start online. Wherever you register, you can choose Star Security Training as your provider and take your classes at our Brooklyn campus. For directions from your borough, see our pages for Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, the Bronx and Staten Island.
What Happens After Training
Free training gets you through the required courses. You still apply to New York State for your security guard license, which our guide on how to get a security guard license in NYC walks through step by step.
Not sure if you qualify? Call us at 718-773-5000 and we will point you to your nearest Workforce1 Career Center and explain exactly what to ask for.