Denver Armed Security Guard Training Course

1. What is the Denver Armed Security Guard Training course?

The Denver Armed Security Guard Training is an instructor-led firearms training program designed for individuals seeking to obtain or maintain a Denver Firearm Endorsement. The course combines classroom instruction, the NRA Basic Pistol curriculum, live-fire range training, firearms qualification, and a written examination. Students learn safe firearm handling, Colorado use-of-force laws, defensive shooting fundamentals, and the professional responsibilities of an armed security guard while satisfying the City and County of Denver’s annual firearms training requirements.

2. Who should take the Denver Armed Security Guard Training?

This course is designed for:

• Security guards applying for a Denver Firearm Endorsement.
• Licensed armed security guards completing their annual firearms training.
• Security professionals transitioning from unarmed to armed positions.
• Private security companies training new or existing employees.
• Individuals seeking employment as an armed security guard in Denver.

3. Does this course meet Denver’s armed security training requirements?

Yes. Our Denver Armed Security Guard Training is designed to satisfy the City and County of Denver’s annual firearms training requirement for armed security guards seeking or maintaining a Denver Firearm Endorsement.

4. Is this course taught using the NRA Basic Pistol curriculum?

Yes. Our Denver Armed Security Guard Training incorporates the NRA Basic Pistol curriculum as the foundation of the firearms training. Students receive comprehensive instruction in firearm safety, handgun operation, ammunition selection, marksmanship, range safety, and live-fire exercises before completing the required firearms qualification and written examination.

5. Do I need a Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) to take this course?

No. A Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) is not required to attend this course. However, a CHP does not authorize someone to work as an armed security guard. Armed security guards must obtain a Denver Firearm Endorsement and comply with all licensing requirements established by the City and County of Denver.

6. What topics are covered during the course?

Training includes both classroom instruction and live-fire exercises covering:

• Firearm safety rules
• Handgun parts and operation
• Ammunition selection
• Loading and unloading procedures
• Fundamentals of marksmanship
• Safe storage and transportation
• Colorado use-of-force laws
• Defensive shooting principles
• Range safety procedures
• Armed security responsibilities
• Professional judgment and decision-making
• Firearms qualification

7. Is there a live-fire qualification?

Yes. Students complete a live-fire qualification under the supervision of experienced firearms instructors. During qualification, students demonstrate safe firearm handling, proper shooting fundamentals, and the ability to safely operate their handgun while following all range commands and safety procedures.

8. Is there a written examination?

Yes. Students must successfully complete a written examination covering the material taught during the course. Topics include firearm safety, Colorado law, safe handling practices, and the responsibilities of an armed security guard.

9. How long is the Denver Armed Security Guard Training?

The course includes classroom instruction, live-fire range training, firearms qualification, and a written examination. Students should plan for a full day of training and arrive on time with all required equipment.

10. What equipment do I need to bring?

Students must bring:

• Reliable semi-automatic handgun or revolver
• Minimum of 200 rounds of factory ammunition
• At least three magazines or speed loaders
• Dual magazine carrier
• Outside-the-waistband or duty-style holster
• Sturdy gun belt
• Eye protection
• Hearing protection
• Government-issued photo ID
• Closed-toe shoes and appropriate range clothing

11. What type of handgun can I use?

Most reliable semi-automatic handguns and revolvers are acceptable provided they are in safe working condition. Your firearm should be properly maintained and suitable for defensive use. If you have questions about your firearm, please contact us before class.

12. What caliber handgun should I bring?

Most students qualify with a 9mm handgun, although other common defensive calibers such as .40 S&W, .45 ACP, .380 ACP, and .38 Special may also be used. Your firearm should be reliable, safe, and appropriate for defensive use.

13. How much ammunition is required?

Students must bring a minimum of 200 rounds of factory ammunition. Factory-loaded ammunition is required for safety and reliability. Reloaded, remanufactured, steel-core, tracer, or armor-piercing ammunition is not permitted.

14. Do you offer firearm rentals?

Yes. We offer handgun rentals for students who do not own a suitable firearm or prefer to use one of our training firearms during the course. The rental fee includes both the firearm and all ammunition needed for the course, making it a convenient option for new shooters or students traveling to class. If you need a rental firearm, please contact us before class so we can reserve one for your training.

15. Do I need previous firearms experience?

No. Previous firearms experience is not required. Our Denver Armed Security Guard Training incorporates the NRA Basic Pistol curriculum, allowing students to learn firearm safety, handgun operation, marksmanship fundamentals, and live-fire shooting before completing the qualification.

16. What happens if I do not pass the qualification?

Our instructors work closely with students throughout the course to build confidence and improve shooting fundamentals. If additional coaching or remediation is needed, we’ll discuss the next steps and available options for successfully completing the qualification.

17. Is eye and ear protection required?

Yes. Approved eye and hearing protection must be worn during all live-fire exercises. Students are responsible for bringing their own safety equipment unless other arrangements have been made in advance.

18. What should I wear to class?

Students should wear comfortable clothing suitable for a live-fire range. Closed-toe shoes are required. A baseball cap is recommended to help protect against hot spent brass. Low-cut shirts, sandals, or open-toed shoes should not be worn during training.

19. Can security companies register multiple employees?

Yes. We regularly work with private security companies throughout Colorado to train multiple armed security guards. Group registrations and private training opportunities may be available for employers seeking to certify or renew several employees at one time.

20. Will I receive a certificate after completing the course?

Yes. Students who successfully complete the classroom instruction, written examination, live-fire qualification, and all course requirements will receive a Certificate of Completion documenting their firearms training.

21. How do I register for the Denver Armed Security Guard Training?

Registration is completed by selecting an upcoming NRA Basic Pistol Course from our online training calendar. This course serves as the firearms training portion of the Denver Armed Security Guard Training. After registering, you’ll receive a confirmation email with course details, required gear, and additional instructions before your training date.

22. Can I carry a firearm while working after completing this course?

Not immediately. Completing this course is one step in the licensing process. Armed security guards must also obtain a Denver Firearm Endorsement and satisfy all licensing requirements established by the City and County of Denver before carrying a firearm while performing armed security duties.

23. How often do armed security guards need firearms training in Denver?

The City and County of Denver requires armed security guards to complete annual firearms training to maintain their Firearm Endorsement. Annual training helps ensure continued firearm proficiency, reinforces safe handling practices, and keeps guards current with legal responsibilities and industry best practices.

24. What is a Denver Firearm Endorsement?

A Denver Firearm Endorsement is the authorization issued by the City and County of Denver that allows a licensed security guard to carry a firearm while performing armed security duties. Applicants must meet all licensing requirements, complete the required firearms training, and maintain annual firearms training to remain compliant.

25. Will I learn Colorado use-of-force laws?

Yes. A significant portion of the course focuses on Colorado laws governing the lawful use of force and deadly physical force. Students learn when force may legally be used, the legal limitations placed on armed security guards, and how sound decision-making can reduce liability while protecting themselves, their clients, and the public.

26. Why is annual firearms training important?

Annual firearms training helps armed security guards maintain safe firearm-handling skills, improve marksmanship, reinforce sound judgment, and remain current with Colorado laws and industry best practices. Continuing education also helps armed guards perform their duties with confidence, professionalism, and a commitment to public safety.

27. What makes your Denver Armed Security Guard Training different?

Our course combines the nationally recognized NRA Basic Pistol curriculum with practical armed security training, live-fire qualification, and instruction from experienced firearms professionals. We have trained hundreds of Colorado security guards and earned over 300 combined 5-star Google reviews between our Denver and Thornton training locations. Our mission is to provide professional, safety-focused instruction that prepares students for real-world armed security work.

28. How do I get started?

Getting started is easy. Register for an upcoming NRA Basic Pistol Course through our online training calendar, gather the required equipment, and attend your scheduled training. Upon successfully completing the classroom instruction, written examination, live-fire qualification, and all course requirements, you’ll receive your Certificate of Completion documenting the firearms training required for your Denver Armed Security Guard licensing process.