Class D vs Class G Security Officers: What Florida Property Managers Should Know
Understanding the difference between Florida's unarmed (Class D) and armed (Class G) licensing — and when to use each.
Florida licensing distinguishes clearly between unarmed and armed officers, and the difference matters for your liability, insurance rating, and the deterrent value of your program.
Class D — Unarmed Security License
Issued by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Licensing.
Requires 40 hours of state-approved training and a Level 2 fingerprint background check.
Cannot carry a firearm on duty. May carry OC/pepper spray, handcuffs, and a baton with additional certification.
Class G — Statewide Firearm License
Held in addition to a Class D license.
Requires 28 hours of firearms training and quarterly re-qualification.
Enables the officer to carry an approved firearm on duty per Ranger's post orders.
At Ranger, every Class G officer completes additional Level IV force-on-force scenarios beyond the state minimum.
When to use each
Class D: HOAs, hospitality lobbies, medical facilities, event access control, and most corporate lobbies.
Class G: financial institutions, cannabis MMTCs, cash-handling operations, high-value retail, and residential principals with an elevated threat profile.
Mixed: many properties use Class G on overnight shifts and Class D during business hours.