For many occupations, certifications demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and expertise in a specific field. The professional security industry is no exception to this, with many employers requiring candidates to have the necessary training, expertise, and certifications.
Some of the most recognized certifications in the security industry are given by the Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) in Virginia. These certifications not only enhance an individual’s credentials but also demonstrate their dedication to upholding high standards in the security profession.
So what are these DCJS security certifications, and how do they benefit you as a security professional? Let’s take a closer look.
What is a DCJS certification?
The DCJS is a regulatory body that ensures that individuals working in the security industry meet stringent standards of training and professionalism. It offers various certifications tailored to different roles, which include:
Why get DCJS certified?
Having a DCJS certification carries significant weight in the security industry for a few reasons:
State and federal compliance
For starters, holding a DCJS certification is mandatory for security professionals operating in different states, including Virginia and Tennessee. Additionally, many federal agencies and government contractors require their security personnel to hold a DCJS certification to avoid any liability issues.
To be DCJS certified, individuals must pass background checks and minimum training requirements, and meet the necessary qualifications set by the department or contractor. Compliance with these requirements ensures clients and employers that the security professionals they hire are well versed in current laws, ethical practices, and security protocols. This adherence to regulatory standards also gives the public peace of mind, helping maintain their trust.
Career advancement
Having a DCJS certification can improve one’s professional career. Employers tend to prioritize candidates with relevant certifications, especially for positions that require specialized skills in handling firearms or protecting high-profile individuals. A DCJS certification signifies that an individual has met rigorous standards of training and passed an exam to demonstrate their knowledge and skills. This assures employers that they are hiring someone with the right experience.
Moreover, DCJS training has plenty in common with other certifications across state lines, which means that certified professionals can easily transfer their credentials and expertise to new locations. Plus, certifications open up networking opportunities with other professionals and associations, which can lead to continued professional growth.
Skill enhancement and continuous learning
The certification process is designed to improve your skills, knowledge, and confidence in handling various areas related to your profession. For example, personal protection specialists must complete up to 60 hours of training in various subjects, including threat assessments, detail operations, emergency procedures, motorcade operations, hand-to-hand tactics, and defensive firearms.
Furthermore, DCJS certifications don’t end with a one-time training and exam. Recertification is required every two years, which means professionals must continue to update their skills and stay current with industry best practices. Holding a long-time DCJS certification therefore demonstrates an individual’s commitment to continuous improvement and their ability to adapt to evolving challenges within the industry.
How do you achieve DCJS certification?
To obtain a DCJS certification, individuals must first meet the minimum qualifications and complete the required training and exams. The specific process and requirements for each certification may vary, but typically, individuals can follow these steps to become DCJS certified:
- Check the eligibility requirements: Before enrolling in any training program, make sure you meet the minimum qualifications set by DCJS for your desired certification. Generally, candidates must be at least 18 years old, pass a criminal background check, and have the necessary education and experience for certain certifications.
- Complete the required training: Candidates must complete DCJS practical and classroom training for their specific profession. This training is often provided by DCJS-approved schools or instructors and can cover topics such as ethics, legal principles, emergency response, firearms training, confrontation management, surveillance, and communication, among others.
- Pass the exam: After completing the required training, candidates must obtain a score of at least 70% on a written exam administered by the DCJS to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the topics covered in the course. The exams usually consist of multiple-choice or true/false questions.
- Apply for certification: Once the training and exams are completed, individuals can apply for their desired certification through DCJS by submitting their proof of training and paying certification fees.
- Renew your certification: To maintain their status, certified professionals must complete in-service training and refresher courses as per DCJS requirements.
The benefits and opportunities DCJS certifications bring are well worth the effort for any security professional. If you are looking to kick-start your career or take it to the next level, call Aspis Training Center. Our experienced instructors provide comprehensive training that will equip you with the knowledge and skills required to pass your DCJS certification exams and be a successful security professional. Get in touch with us today.