How to Get a Florida Class D Security License (2026 Guide)
Step-by-step: 40-hour training, fingerprinting, FDACS application, fees, timeline, and how to renew your Florida Class D unarmed security officer license.
The Florida Class D security license is the state-issued credential every unarmed security officer must hold to work legally in Florida. It is administered by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), Division of Licensing. This 2026 guide walks through eligibility, the required 40-hour training, fingerprinting, application steps, fees, timelines, and renewal — so you can go from applicant to hired officer without wasted time or rejected paperwork.
What a Florida Class D license lets you do
A Class D license authorizes you to work as an unarmed security officer for any licensed Florida security agency (Class B agency). You can staff lobbies, gates, construction sites, retail, HOAs, hospitals, warehouses, events, and mobile patrol posts — anywhere a uniformed unarmed presence is required.
It does not authorize you to carry a firearm on post. Armed work in Florida requires the separate Class G Statewide Firearm License, which layers on top of an active Class D.
Eligibility requirements (2026)
Be at least 18 years old.
Be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident / hold valid work authorization.
Have no disqualifying criminal history under Florida Statute 493.6118. Certain felonies and violent misdemeanors within a look-back period are automatic denials; other convictions may be waived after time-served and rehabilitation.
Be of good moral character with no history of drug or alcohol abuse that would impair job duties.
Not have been adjudicated incompetent or committed for mental illness without restoration of rights.
Step 1 — Complete the 40-hour Class D training
Florida requires 40 hours of classroom training from a licensed Class DS security school before you apply. The curriculum is set by FDACS and covers legal authority, use of force, emergency procedures, patrol techniques, access control, report writing, and interpersonal communication.
At the end of the course you must pass a written exam. The school issues a Certificate of Completion (Form DACS-16011) — keep the original; FDACS will not accept photocopies.
Tuition typically runs $100–$250 in Florida. Beware of schools promising 'weekend' or 'online-only' 40-hour classes — FDACS auditors regularly revoke licenses issued from non-compliant training.
Step 2 — Get fingerprinted (Livescan)
All applicants must submit electronic fingerprints through a FDLE-approved Livescan vendor. The prints are used for a state (FDLE) and federal (FBI) criminal background check.
Use ORI number FL924010Z when the vendor asks. The fee is roughly $47–$60 depending on the provider. Fingerprints must be submitted within 90 days before your application.
Step 3 — Submit the FDACS application
File the Class D Security Officer application online at the FDACS Division of Licensing portal (mylicensesite.fdacs.gov). You will need your training certificate number, Livescan TCN, a passport-style photo, and a valid photo ID.
The 2026 application fee is $45 for the initial license plus a $42 fingerprint processing fee. Payment is by credit card at submission.
Applications with missing training certificates, expired prints, or unresolved arrests are the top three rejection reasons. Double-check every field before you submit.
Step 4 — Timeline and temporary work authority
Processing typically takes 30–90 days. FDACS issues a license number once the background check clears; the physical license card arrives by mail shortly after.
Florida no longer issues a stand-alone temporary Class D. However, once your license number is issued electronically you can begin working immediately for a licensed Class B agency — you do not need to wait for the plastic card.
Step 5 — Renewal and continuing requirements
The Class D license is valid for two years. Renewal is $45 and requires proof of four hours of continuing education completed at a licensed Class DS school before each renewal cycle.
Let it lapse and you must retake the full 40-hour course. Set a calendar reminder 60 days before your expiration date.
Common questions
Can I get a Class D with a felony? It depends on the offense and how long ago it was. Non-violent felonies older than the statutory look-back period, with civil rights restored, are often approved. Violent, sexual, or drug-trafficking felonies are generally disqualifying.
Do I need a Class D to work armed? Yes — Class G requires an active Class D underneath it, plus 28 hours of firearms training and annual requalification.
Can I work for myself? No. You must be employed by a licensed Class B security agency; a Class D does not authorize independent contracting.
Work for Ranger Operation Services Inc after you're licensed
Ranger hires newly licensed Class D officers across Florida — Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, and every city in between. We provide uniforms, post orders, supervisor mentorship, and a documented path from Class D to Class G armed and Special Response Team assignments.
Once your license number is issued, apply at rangeroperationservices.com/careers or call (786) 404-1861. We accept applications from candidates in training as long as your Certificate of Completion arrives before your first shift.