Training for District of Columbia Special Police Officers and Security Officers
Why Train at LAWW Security Academy?
We provide exceptional training for individuals aspiring to be Special Police Officers (SPOs) and Security Officers (SOs). Here’s what sets LAWW Security Academy apart:
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Experienced Instructors: Learn from trainers with extensive backgrounds in law enforcement and security
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Practical Training: Hands-on scenarios designed to simulate real-life challenges
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Career Opportunities: Access to top security agencies actively hiring academy graduates
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Comprehensive Support: Assistance with licensing applications, job placement, and certification renewal
Public Service
Becoming a Special Police Officer (SPO) is one of the most sought-after career paths in Washington, D.C.’s security industry. The quality of training you receive significantly impacts your eligibility to work with leading security firms.
At LAWW Security Academy, we offer a top-tier SPO training program designed to ensure your success. With years of combined experience in law enforcement and security training, our instructors provide tailored instruction to prepare you for the demands of this competitive field. We are committed to equipping you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to excel as an SPO.
A Special Police Officer is a professional commissioned under District of Columbia Code §§4-114 and 4-115 to carry out specific law enforcement responsibilities. SPOs may be authorized to carry firearms and have the same authority as law enforcement officers to make arrests without a warrant for crimes committed within their jurisdiction. Additionally, under the “fresh pursuit” provision (D.C. Code §23-582A), SPOs can pursue and arrest offenders outside their jurisdiction for crimes that occurred on their assigned premises.
To become an Armed Special Police Officer, candidates must successfully complete a 40-hour training course as mandated by Code §6A 1107.2. They must also satisfy additional training and certification requirements detailed in Code §6A 1107.4.
At LAWW Security Academy, we ensure every participant is thoroughly prepared to meet these high standards. By combining innovative training methods, experienced instructors, and practical, real-world scenarios, we provide unmatched training for aspiring SPOs. Choosing us means investing in top-quality preparation for a rewarding career in security and law enforcement.
Who Are Special Police Officers (SPOs)?
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Special Police Officers (SPOs) are private law enforcement professionals with specific police powers in their assigned jurisdiction, granted under D.C. Code, Sections §4-114 and §4-115. Their duties include:
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Enforcing laws and maintaining security at designated sites.
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Making warrantless arrests for violations within their jurisdiction.
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Pursuing offenders under the "fresh pursuit" provision (D.C. Code §23-582A).
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Carrying firearms, if certified as armed SPOs.
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SPOs play a vital role in ensuring the safety of properties, people, and assets in D.C.
Who Are Security Officers (SOs)?
Security Officers (SOs) are responsible for providing general protection and maintaining order at various establishments. Unlike SPOs, SOs do not possess arrest powers but are a vital part of the security ecosystem, ensuring a safe environment for businesses, government facilities, and the public.
Eligibility Requirements
Special Police Officer (SPO) Eligibility:
To qualify for SPO training and certification, applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Age: At least 21 years old.
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Citizenship: U.S. citizen.
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Education: High school diploma, GED, or one year of SPO experience.
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Agency Affiliation: Must be affiliated with a licensed security agency.
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Background: No disqualifying criminal convictions or dishonorable military discharges.
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Medical Fitness: Certified by a licensed physician as physically and psychologically fit.
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Language Proficiency: Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently.
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Good Moral Character: Demonstrated through behavior and references.
Security Officer (SO) Eligibility:
To qualify as a Security Officer, applicants must:
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Age: Be at least 18 years old.
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Citizenship: Be a U.S. citizen or possess a valid work permit.
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Language Skills: Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently.
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Background Check: Pass a criminal history check conducted by the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and FBI.
Training Requirements
Special Police Officer (SPO) Training: Duration: Duration 40 hours:
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Pre-Assignment Training: 16 hours covering arrest powers, search and seizure laws, use of force, and D.C. Code.
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Additional Training: 24 hours covering terrorism awareness, emergency procedures, and customer service.
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On-the-Job Training:
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16 hours (completed within 90 days of employment).
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Supervised field application of SPO duties.
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Annual In-Service Training:
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Duration: 8 hours annually.
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Keeps SPOs updated on legal and procedural changes.
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Firearms Certification (if armed):
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Completion of firearms training and qualification is required for armed SPOs.
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Security Officer (SO) Training:
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Pre-Assignment Training: Duration 16 hours.
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Topics include:
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Basic security principles.
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Emergency procedures and communication skills.
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In-Service Training:
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Required annually to maintain certification.
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Licensing Requirements for SO and SPO
To apply for a Security Officer (SO) or Special Police Officer (SPO) license in Washington, D.C., applicants must submit the following documents as part of the licensing process:
Required Documents:
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Government-Issued ID: Valid photo identification such as a driver’s license or state-issued ID.
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Proof of Citizenship: A birth certificate, U.S. passport, or naturalization papers for SPOs. Security Officers may also submit a valid work permit.
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Medical Clearance (SPO Only): Certification from a licensed physician verifying physical and psychological fitness.
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Drug Test Results (SPO Only): Certified 6-panel drug test.
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Fingerprint Receipt: Evidence of fingerprinting completed through the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department (DC MPD).
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Notarized Arrest Affidavit (SPO Only): Including records and dispositions for any prior arrests.
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Background Check Clearance (SO Only): Results from DC MPD and FBI background investigations.
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Range Certificate (Armed SPO Only): Proof of firearms training completion, if applying for an armed SPO license.
Licensing Application Process
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Create an Access DC Account: Access DC
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Steps to Apply for a License:
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Sign up for an account.
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Select "Occupational & Professional License."
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Click "Profile" and choose "Apply for a New License."
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Ensure You Meet the Requirements:
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Affiliation with a licensed security agency (for SPOs).
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Verification of agency license status.
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Fees and Associated Costs
After completing training, you are responsible for the following fees:
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Special Police Officer (SPO):
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$35.00 - Fingerprinting and background check fee
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$35.00 - Drug test fee (6-panel drug screening)
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$50.00 - Physical examination fee (required by Metro Lab or equivalent)
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$99.00 - SPO application fee (payable to the D.C. government)
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Security Officer (SO):
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$84.00 - SO application fee (payable to the D.C. government)
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$35.00 - Fingerprinting and background check fee
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$35.00 - Drug test fee (6-panel drug screening)
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$50.00 - Physical examination fee (required by Metro Lab or equivalent)
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Note: Receipts for all payments must be retained and uploaded during the application process.
Criminal History Evaluation
All applicants must undergo a criminal history check. Factors considered include:
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Conviction history.
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Court findings of mental incompetence.
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Rehabilitation and good conduct evidence.
Additional Requirements
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All licenses must be renewed periodically as required by D.C. regulations.
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SPOs and SOs are required to complete in-service training, firearms re-qualification (if armed), and any additional continuing education mandated by the D.C. Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP).
For more information, visit the official D.C. Professional Licensing website at dlcp.dc.gov/professional-licensing or contact the DLCP by email at dlcp@dc.gov or phone at (202) 442-4320.
By enrolling in LAWW Security Academy, you take the first step toward a rewarding career as a Special Police Officer or Security Officer. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
Take the next step toward your security career with LAWW Security Academy – Maryland’s trusted partner for professional security training. Enroll now to get started!