Security service
ATPS Security provides armed security guard services for sites where the risk calls for a visible, firearm-qualified officer. Every armed officer is licensed in the state they work, drug tested, background checked and supervised by leadership with a law enforcement background. Coverage runs short term or 24/7.
At a glance
Armed Security Guard Services
Updated October 2026
Armed coverage is a serious decision, and it should come from someone who has carried a firearm on duty. Our leadership comes from law enforcement, so we start every armed post with a question: what is the threat, and is an armed officer the right answer to it?
When it is, you get an officer who holds the correct state license and firearm qualification for the post, works from written post orders, and reports through GPS-enabled software so you can see every round.
Coverage
Retail cash handling, deposits, pharmacies and stores holding high-value inventory.
Properties that have had robberies, assaults or armed trespassers.
Embassies, chanceries and facilities where a visible armed presence is part of the protection plan.
Construction sites, warehouses and data centers where help is not close by.
Armed officers work from post orders that spell out use-of-force rules, escalation steps and who to call. Supervisors check posts, and incidents are logged in real time. Because our team keeps working relationships with local police, a report from one of our officers reaches the right people fast.
Where we work
ATPS Security provides armed security guard services from our Washington, DC headquarters across Maryland and Virginia, with regional operations leaders in Southern Maryland and on the Eastern Shore. We are also licensed in West Virginia, Tennessee, Florida, Texas, Mississippi, South Dakota.
HeadquartersThe Watergate Building, 2600 Virginia Ave NW, Suite 205Officer typesArmed, unarmed and Special Police Officers (SPOs)
LicensingSecurity guards certified through the Maryland State Police
How it starts
A supervisor walks your property, reviews past incidents and asks how your people use the space. You get a written coverage recommendation.
We write clear post orders, set check-in points and match licensed officers to the post: armed, unarmed or DC Special Police Officer.
Officers report through GPS-enabled software, supervisors check posts, and you have a direct line to leadership whenever you need it.
FAQ
Need an answer that is not here? Call 888-278-9125. Operations are staffed 24/7.
An armed officer carries a firearm and holds the state license and firearm qualification that requires. Unarmed officers deter, observe and report. Most sites only need unarmed coverage; we recommend armed officers when the risk on the site supports it.
Yes. Each officer holds the armed license required by the state where the post is located. We are licensed to operate in DC, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Tennessee, Florida, Texas, Mississippi and South Dakota.
Yes. In the District, Special Police Officers are commissioned through the Metropolitan Police Department and carry more authority than standard security officers. Ask about SPO availability during your site survey.
It depends on the post and the state. Call us and we will give you a realistic start date after a short conversation about the site.
Get started
Tell us about your property and our team will follow up to schedule a walk-through. For urgent coverage, call us any time.
