Virginia Security Officer Licensing Requirements
What the state requires to work as a security officer in Virginia, who regulates it, and how ATPS supports officers on our Virginia contracts. ATPS does not currently operate a licensed training school in Virginia — our training programs are delivered in Maryland and the District of Columbia.
State requirements
- Unarmed security officer registration — Virginia DCJS — 18 hours of 01E Core Subjects — 4 hours of 01I in-service once each 24-month registration period — 6VAC20-174-210; 6VAC20-174-170
- Armed security officer registration — Virginia DCJS — 50 hours: 01E 18h + 05E 8h + 75E Handgun 24h (53 hours with 08E Shotgun) — 4-hour in-service each 24-month registration period, plus range requirements as applicable — 6VAC20-174-220(A); 6VAC20-174-170
Requirements verified 28 August 2026 against Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS). Requirements change — confirm with the regulator before relying on this page.
Frequently asked questions
How much training does Virginia require for an armed security officer?
Virginia requires 50 hours for armed registration, or 53 hours where the shotgun module applies. The 24-hour handgun module alone is not the full armed requirement.
Does ATPS operate a Virginia training school?
No. ATPS does not currently operate a DCJS-certified training school in Virginia. We verify credentials before assignment and support officers on our contracts.
How ATPS supports officers here
We verify credentials before assignment, track expiries, and pay for required renewals on our Virginia contracts. This support does not make ATPS a Virginia training school.