Pacific West Academy (PWA) is a leading institution for security guard training. We equip you with the skills and confidence needed to excel in the exciting, dynamic, and fulfilling security industry.
We are a proud member of Advanced Security Concepts Inc. (ASC), delivering world-class security officer training in easy to afford programs with flexible scheduling.
Our courses combine classroom knowledge and hands-on experience. That means you get everything you need to succeed in the rapidly-growing security field.
PWA will help you get your:
- unarmed security guard license (including Level 2 security license and Class D security license)
- armed security guard license (including Level 3 security license)
- security guard certification
Need to relocate to pursue bodyguard training? Lodging Assistance Available
Become a Certified Security Officer with PWA
Security guard training from Pacific West Academy opens your horizons to working for prestigious clients.
Does a career in this dynamic field sound like a good fit? Sign up for our armed security guard classes and private security training programs. These unlock high earning potential by giving you coveted skills.
39-Day Certified Executive Security Specialist Program
The Certified Executive Security Specialist (CESS) Course gives you everything you need to get security guard licenses through a rigorous 39-day program. This course takes you from total beginner to fully trained security guard with in-depth training on essential security skills. This is the ideal choice for those looking for security guard certification or a security officer license.
12-Day Comprehensive Security Training
Are you ready for anything? The Comprehensive Security Training (CST) provides intense and in-depth training for those looking to become both armed security officers and unarmed security guards. Sign up to rapidly develop a set of core skills in a process that gives you the confidence you need to become a bodyguard. The CST program combines classroom lessons with practical exercises for a holistic approach.
Begin a New Career
"*" indicates required fields
Professional Relationships
Pacific West Academy would like to give thanks to an MMA legend, Bas Rutten @basruttenmma.
Bas stopped by the academy yesterday and held an instructor development clinic with our PWA Combatives cadre where we had the opportunity to share tactics and ideas in regards to combatives application in a close protection environment.
In an effort to bring our students the most relevant and up-to-date training, Pacific West Academy is proud to team up with Mike @KnockOutLights for an exchange of ideas and training.
We continually establish professional relationships and train with some of the best in the industry.
Pacific West Academy would like to announce to our past and future students that we have partnered with ASIS International and become part of their Preferred CPE Provider program.
Our Programs will now count as continuing professional education (CPE) credits toward ASIS recertification. The Certified Executive Security Specialist (CESS) program will count as a massive 348 CPE credits. This course alone will act as all the credit necessary to re-certify under any of the ASIS certifications.
We are happy to provide continuing education to security professionals and newcomers to the security industry alike.
Approved by
In Association With
Master the field with PWA’s Security Guard Training Classes and Certification
Expert Instructors
With leaders in the field teaching our classes, you get the benefit of their hard-earned experience and specialized knowledge in security guard training.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Why settle? Our facilities offer top-of-the-line equipment and technology. This includes real-world environments, shooting ranges, classrooms, and virtual reality simulation.
Fully Accredited
PWA is accredited by ACCET (Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training), approved by CSAAVE (California State Approving Agency for Veterans Education), BPPE (The California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education) and CalJobs.
Cost-Effective
Thanks to flexible security guard training courses and competitive pricing, we make it easy for anyone to pursue a new career in security.
Our Highly Experienced Team of Security Training Specialists
Our instructors incorporate their many years of military and executive protection training and experience into the course curriculum. At PWA Florida, we pride ourselves on delivering training that combines real-world experience with cutting-edge techniques.
Top Executive Protection Academies Comparison Chart
(valued day rate: $161.00)
(Day Rate: $405.12)
(Estimated day rate: $175.00)
(Day Rate: $740.00)
(Estimated day rate: $107.00)
(Day Rate: $464.28)
(Estimated day rate: $250.00)
(Day Rate: $308.92)
Security Guard Training FAQ
What does it take to become an armed security officer?
To become an armed security officer, you must complete specific armed security guard training that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on firearms training. You’ll need to earn an armed security guard license or certification, depending on state requirements.
This process typically involves passing a background check, completing armed security officer training, and demonstrating proficiency in handling firearms. Once certified, armed security officers are qualified to carry firearms and handle high-risk situations.
How do I get a security license?
A security license requires a candidate to complete a state-approved security license training program, just like those offered by PWA instructors.
After you’ve graduated from security guard training and passed the required exams, you will be eligible to apply for a security license.
What does it mean to get a security license level 2?
A level 2 security license is typically the entry-level license required to work as an unarmed security guard. It covers the basics of unarmed security training, including:
- communication skills
- report writing
- emergency procedures
- legal responsibilities
Level 2 security licenses allow you to work in entry-level security guard positions, providing a foundation for further training if you decide to pursue more advanced certifications, such as a Level 3 security license.
What does it mean to get a security license level 3?
A level 3 security license allows you to work as an armed security officer. That makes it a much more coveted certification, as it opens you up to more career opportunities—including positions that offer better pay.
This advanced certification requires completing specialized armed security officer training, which includes:
- defensive tactics
- firearms safety
- threat assessment.
A level 3 security guard is trained to handle higher-risk security situations, often working in environments where carrying a firearm is necessary. This license opens up more career opportunities in the security field.
What does it mean to get a Class D security license?
Like a level 2 security license, a Class D security license is a state-issued certification that allows individuals to work as unarmed security guards.
This license requires completing Class D security license classes, which cover essential topics such as:
- patrol techniques
- emergency procedures
- legal responsibilities
The Class D security license is often the first step for those looking to enter the private security industry, and it can be upgraded with further certifications. That makes it a good foundation to eventually getting an armed security guard license.
Are you a good candidate for security guard training?
Are you detail-oriented? Do you have strong observational skills? Do you enjoy working in a protective role?
If you said yes to any of these, you might be an excellent candidate for security guard training.
PWA courses are the place to begin your journey—whether you are seeking unarmed positions or want to pursue an armed security officer license.
Our training suits anyone. But people with a background in law enforcement, military, or customer service often find the skills learned in security guard courses to be highly transferable.
For veterans, this might be a particularly good opportunity. In fact, it’s been found to be a very good way to transition out of the service. And financing can be very easy. The GI Bill® often covers PWA courses.
Are you a veteran interested in learning more about security guard training? See how PWA eases the transition for U.S. Military Veterans into a new, meaningful career.
When can I enroll in a security guard training program?
PWA offers security guard certification and training courses all year long.
Enrollment is always open.
Sign-up for free, and we’ll reach out to schedule dates that work best for you.
Look over our training schedules!
Send Us a Message
"*" indicates required fields