From Service to Security: How Veterans Can Fast-Track Their NY Guard License

For veterans transitioning to civilian life in 2026, the private security industry in New York offers a stable career path where military discipline is highly valued. However, many veterans are unaware that their service experience can significantly shorten the licensing process. Through the Experience Counts Program, New York State recognizes specific military training as partial fulfillment of the state’s rigorous security requirements. At Churchgate Protective Services, we are proud to support our veterans by helping them navigate these specialized pathways into professional protection.

What is the Experience Counts Program?

The Experience Counts Program is a New York State initiative designed to facilitate the transfer of military skills to the private sector. Under this program, veterans who have completed qualifying military training can receive credit toward the mandatory 8-Hour Pre-Assignment Training and the 16-Hour On-the-Job Training (OJT). This means you can get into the field faster while saving on initial training costs.

Do You Qualify?

To participate, you must have served in a qualifying military role. The Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) has identified several military occupations that meet the standard for credit, including:

• Army: Infantryman (11B), Military Police (31B), or CID Special Agent (31D).
• Navy: Master-at-Arms (MA) or Navy SEAL.
• Air Force: Security Specialist (3P).
• Marines: Infantryman (03XX), Military Police (58XX), or Security Force Guard (8152).

If your military transcript or DD-214 includes these roles, you are eligible for the program’s benefits.

The Alternative Training Path

Instead of the standard 24 hours of initial civilian training, qualifying veterans complete two specialized courses, often at no cost:

1. Legal Powers and Limitations: A course provided by the NYS Department of Labor that focuses on the specific legal boundaries of private security in New York.
2. FEMA IS-100.C: An online course regarding the Incident Command System, which ensures you understand how to coordinate with emergency responders during a crisis.

Moving to Armed Security Status

For veterans interested in Elite Armed Guard Roles, the Experience Counts Program also provides a path to waive the standard 47-hour firearms course. To qualify for this waiver, you must possess a valid NYS Pistol Permit and provide proof of your qualifying military firearms training to the NYSDOL Veterans’ Program Unit. Once approved, you only need to complete an 8-hour annual firearms refresher to maintain your armed status.

Standard Eligibility Still Applies

While the program fast-tracks your training, you must still meet the foundational NYS Security Guard requirements:

• You must be at least 18 years old.
• You must be a U.S. citizen or have valid work authorization.
• You must pass a fingerprint-based background check to ensure you have no “serious offense” convictions.

Why Choose Churchgate Protective Services?

At Churchgate Protective Services, we recognize that veterans bring a level of situational awareness and leadership that cannot be taught in a classroom. We actively seek out those who have served to join our elite teams in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and beyond. By leveraging the Experience Counts Program, you can transition your military expertise into a rewarding career protecting New York’s most valuable assets.Are you a veteran looking to start your security career? Learn more about our Security Guard Services or Contact Us today to begin your professional journey.