Q. Do I need to have previous law enforcement or military experience to be a Bodyguard/Executive Protection Agent?
A. No, but you will need certain attributes to be selected for and pass the training you will need from us.
- Education: Bodyguards must have at least a high school diploma or a GED. Specialized training in high-threat targets and celebrity protection are available through our professional instructors that come from elite law enforcement and security units.
- Physical Condition: Bodyguards must be in excellent physical shape. The bodyguard should strive to have his/her endurance and physical strength above average. Any chronic health conditions such as asthma, high blood pressure or diabetes should be well-controlled. Hearing and vision should both be normal or reasonably correctable to normal.
- Emotional Health: Bodyguards must be in control of their emotions while on the job. They must be mature, calm and even-tempered. There should be no underlying psychological conditions.
- Learning ability for special skills: Although you do not need these skills when you first come to us, armed bodyguards must be proficient in the use of weapons and all bodyguards should be able to use physical evasive maneuvers and defensive tactics before resorting to aggressive attacks. Other skills include CPR and first aid skills.
- There are no national standards for licensing bodyguards, but some states have specific requirements for protection specialists (usually a security license in states that require them. Many employers require that bodyguards hold an armed security guard license so check your state for details. New York State requires a security guard license for unarmed bodyguards/Executive Protection Agents and an Armed Guard registration if working armed. Note: Active duty police officers in New York State are exempt from licensing.
Q. How much does it cost?
A. Our fees are listed on our Protective Agent/Bodyguard page.
Q. Do I need to be an athlete or black belt martial artist?
A. No, but you do need to be able to protect yourself and the clients if the need calls for it. You will learn some skills during our courses and we have affiliated trainers that can help you on a continuous basis.
Q. Do I need to have a gun to work as a bodyguard?
A. Not necessarily, there are a number of bodyguard positions that are unarmed, but you will work more frequently and generally be paid more if you are armed. In many states like New York you will need to get a pistol permit and registered firearm for this. Many states, including New York, also require bodyguards to be licensed through them as well.
In summary:
Honestly and respectfully, becoming a Protective Agent through us is not a free ride, and is not accomplished in a few easy lessons. You must be willing to be in a constant training state like your special operator trainers to satisfy the employers and protectees for this high level and high paying work. You must keep your defensive and protective skills sharp and stay in excellent physical condition.
We are training you on how to keep yourself and others safe at the same time, and that takes continuous effort. This type of training and work, though rewarding in a number of ways, is dynamic and is for those who are above average in intelligence and strength.
