This 16-hour course meets the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) requirements for Armed and Unarmed Security Guard licensing. It builds upon unarmed certification and introduces advanced skills required for carrying a firearm professionally.

Arizona laws on use of deadly force and firearms carry
Firearms safety and handling
Range qualification and marksmanship fundamentals
Judgmental shooting and threat assessment
Legal reporting and post-incident protocol

Requirements

Must be at least 21 years old
Valid AZ Unarmed Guard Card (current or pending)
Valid government-issued photo ID
Must pass a DPS background check
Successful completion of a firearms qualification course
No felony or disqualifying criminal convictions

Note: Firearm, holster, and gear are required for LIVE FIRE. ASCEND can provide rental equipment upon request.

Students must pass both written and range qualification tests to receive the Armed Guard Certificate required for DPS submission.

AZ Armed / Unarmed Guard Course