Private Security
All officers must complete an Initial Arming class before going armed for St. Louis County Private Security Division. After completion, officers are required to qualify twice per year spread out at 6-month intervals.
Private Security Classes
Private Security Firearm Qual
This qualification is for private security officers or couriers in St. Louis County and St. Louis City for their semi-annual or annual license renewal.
Private Security Training1 Hour
Private Security – Initial Arming – Semi-Auto
This is the approved 2-day training class for St. Louis County/City watchmen to become armed Security Officers and/or Couriers with a semi-automatic pistol.
Private Security Training16 Hours (2 Days)
Private Security – Initial Arming – Revolver
This is the approved training class for St. Louis County/City watchmen to become armed Security Officers and/or Couriers with a revolver.
Private Security Training8 Hours
Private Security – OC/Pepper Spray Certification
This is a Missouri P.O.S.T. recognized 4-hour qualification for Continuing Education Skills: Development for Missouri Law Enforcement Officers.
Private Security Training4 Hours
Private Security – Baton Certification
Officers are required to maintain certification with a protective device (intermediate less lethal tool) to be armed for St. Louis County Private Security. This certification course is 4 hours and approved by St. Louis Private Security.
Private Security Training4 Hours
Private Security Holster Requirements
- Level 2 retention (ie: molded kydex with retention strap)
- Belt feeds through holster (cannot take the holster off without undoing belt)
- Standard or Mid-Ride only (no chest rig or drop leg holsters)
- Strong side carry (no small of back, appendix, or cross draw)
Private Security Firearm Requirements
- .38spl, 9mm, or .40 S&W
- Full size or Compact (barrel length of at least 4”)
- Striker-Fired or Double Action Only
- No manual safeties or De-cockers
- No weapon mounted flashlights or lasers (Red Dot sights OK)
Private Security Manufacturer Requirements
| Glock | Armscor | CZ |
| Smith & Wesson | Ruby | Steyr |
| Beretta | Canik | Taurus |
| FN | FMK | Rock Island |
| Walther | Sig Sauer | Rossi |
| EAA/Girsan | Springfield | Charter Arms |
| Stoeger | Ruger | Remington |
| Colt | H&K | AREX |
Most, if not all your equipment can be purchased at The Range with help from our knowledgeable staff. Officers may also qualify for a Law Enforcement discount through select gun manufacturers.
Private Security Changing Duty Weapons
If an officer would like to change duty weapons in between qualifications, officer must have the firearm approved and qualify with it BEFORE carrying it on duty. Coming in for just a qualification will suffice, no need to take Initial Arming class again.