The Class D Security Officer License is a professional credential issued by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), Division of Licensing. It authorizes an individual to work as an unarmed security officer anywhere in the state of Florida. By law (Florida Statutes, Chapter 493), no person may perform security officer duties without first obtaining this license.

Why it Exists

Florida regulates private security because officers often serve as the first line of defense in protecting people, businesses, and property. A licensed security officer is trained to:

• Observe and report suspicious activity.

• Control access to restricted areas.

• Deter theft, vandalism, or disturbances through visibility and patrols.

• Assist in emergencies such as fire alarms, medical incidents, or evacuations.

• Serve as a liaison between the public and law enforcement when necessary.

The license ensures that only individuals who meet minimum requirements — age, residency, training, and background checks — are allowed to perform these responsibilities.

What the D-License Covers

• Unarmed Security Work Only: The D-License is specifically for unarmed positions. This includes roles such as mall security, hospital security, event security, and neighborhood patrols.

• Statewide Authorization: Once issued, your license is valid anywhere in Florida. You are not restricted to a city or county.

• 2-Year Validity: The license must be renewed every two years with FDACS to remain active.
  
  

What the D-License Does Not Cover

• Armed Security: If you want to carry a firearm on duty, you must also obtain the Class G Security License (armed security). The D-License is a prerequisite for the G-License.

• Law Enforcement Authority: Holding a D-License does not make you a police officer. Security officers cannot make arrests or act outside the scope of their duties. Their role is to observe, report, and protect within legal limits.
  
  

Why Employers Require It

Florida employers cannot hire unlicensed individuals as security officers. Holding a D-License signals to employers that you have:

• Completed 40 hours of FDACS-approved training.

• Passed the required examinations.

• Cleared a state and federal background check.

• Been vetted and approved by the state to perform professional security duties.
  
  

In short, the Class D Security Officer License is your passport into Florida’s security industry. It proves you are trained, vetted, and legally authorized to work in this high-demand field.

Before you can begin working as a security officer in Florida, you must meet the minimum qualifications set by FDACS (Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Licensing). These requirements are designed to ensure that only individuals who are legally and professionally capable are licensed.

Basic Eligibility

• Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.

• Residency: You must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or otherwise legally authorized to work in the United States. Proof of residency or work authorization is required.

• Identification: A valid government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID card) is required to prove your identity and eligibility.
  
  

Background Check

All applicants must undergo state and federal background screening through fingerprint submission. This step ensures that individuals with disqualifying criminal records cannot obtain a license.

Disqualifying Factors Typically Include:

• Felony convictions.

• Certain violent misdemeanor convictions (e.g., assault, battery, domestic violence).

• Drug trafficking or other serious drug-related crimes.

• Active probation or parole status.

• Dishonorable discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces.
  
  

Non-Disqualifying or Case-by-Case Issues:

• Some misdemeanors, dismissed charges, or sealed/expunged records may not automatically disqualify you. FDACS reviews applications individually and makes final determinations.

• If you have questions about your record, it’s best to contact FDACS Licensing Division before applying.
  
  

Training Requirement

Even if you meet the personal qualifications above, you cannot be licensed until you:

• Complete the 40-hour FDACS-approved Class D training course.

• Pass the course examinations.

• Receive a valid Certificate of Completion from a licensed training school (DVPSTA – FDACS Licensed School, DS License #DS3400004).
  
  

Health & Fitness (Not legally required, but recommended)

While there is no official medical exam required for a Class D license, employers often expect officers to:

• Stand and walk for long periods.

• Respond quickly in emergencies.

• Maintain alertness during overnight or extended shifts.

Being in reasonable physical condition will increase employability and performance.

Legal Responsibility

Applicants must agree to follow Florida Statutes Chapter 493, which governs private investigative and security services. This includes acting professionally, avoiding impersonation of law enforcement, and respecting the limits of your authority.

Quick Checklist: Am I Eligible? ✅

• I am at least 18 years old.

• I am a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or legally authorized to work.

• I have a valid government-issued photo ID.

• I do not have disqualifying criminal convictions.

• I am prepared to undergo fingerprinting and a background check.

• I am ready to complete 40 hours of FDACS-approved training.

Florida law requires that all applicants complete a minimum of 40 hours of professional security officer training at an FDACS-licensed training school before applying for the Class D Security Officer License. This training ensures that every security officer understands Florida law, professional ethics, and practical skills to handle real-world situations.

At DVPSTA (FDACS Licensed School, DS License #DS3400004), our training program is fully compliant with state standards and designed to prepare students for both the exam and their first day on the job.

Curriculum Overview

The 40-hour course is divided into modules that cover the legal, professional, and practical aspects of security work. While the exact schedule may vary, FDACS mandates that the following areas be included:

• Florida Statutes & Regulations

  • Legal responsibilities under Florida Statutes Chapter 493.

  • Powers and limitations of security officers.

  • Avoiding impersonation of law enforcement.

• Professional Conduct & Ethics

  • Standards of professionalism.

  • Code of ethics in security.

  • Public relations and communication.

• Emergency Procedures

  • Fire safety and evacuation.

  • Handling medical emergencies (basic first response).

  • Disaster awareness and preparedness.

• Observation & Patrol Techniques

  • Access control and monitoring.

  • Patrolling techniques and deterrence strategies.

  • Situational awareness and crime prevention.

• Report Writing & Communication

  • How to write accurate, detailed incident reports.

  • Proper use of radios and communication devices.

  • Testifying in court as a security officer.

• Use of Force Guidelines

  • Understanding when force is permitted under Florida law.

  • De-escalation techniques and conflict management.

  • Legal consequences of excessive force.

Training Format

• Duration: 40 hours total (often completed over 4–5 days in person, or self-paced online with time tracking).

• Exams: Mid-course and final examinations are required to demonstrate mastery of the material.

• Certificate: Upon successful completion, students receive a Certificate of Security Officer Training, which must be submitted with the FDACS application.
  
  

In-Person vs. Online Options

• In-Person Training: Traditional classroom-based learning with direct instructor interaction. Good for students who prefer structured schedules.

• Online Training: Offered by state-approved providers like DVPSTA. Students can complete the course on their own schedule, with mandatory timers on each slide to meet FDACS’s 40-hour requirement.
  
  

⚖️ Important Note: Only FDACS-licensed training schools are authorized to issue valid Certificates of Completion. Always confirm the provider’s DS license number before enrolling. You can confirm a school by using this link: https://licensing.fdacs.gov/access/agency.aspx

Why This Training Matters

The training isn’t just a formality — it prepares you to:

• Handle real-life emergencies calmly and legally.

• Protect clients and property while minimizing liability.

• Write reports that hold up in court or employer reviews.

• Act professionally in situations where reputation and safety are at stake.
  
  

At DVPSTA, our instructors bring over 25 years of combined experience in law enforcement, firefighting, and public safety, ensuring students don’t just “check a box” — they leave the course job-ready.

One of the biggest decisions future security officers face is whether to complete their Class D Security Officer training online or in person. Florida law allows both options, but the experience can be very different depending on the provider you choose.

In-Person Training

Traditionally, security officer training in Florida has been taught in a classroom environment. This format typically involves attending a training school in person for four to five consecutive days.

Advantages of In-Person Training

• Direct access to instructors for immediate questions.

• Structured daily schedule.

• Hands-on group discussions or roleplay (varies by provider).
  
  

Disadvantages of In-Person Training

• Requires travel to the training site, which can add time and cost.

• Rigid schedules may not work for students with jobs, families, or other commitments.

• Limited to English-only instruction at most schools.

• Some schools require students to attend extra “check-in” meetings, even when they advertise online options.

Online Training

With advances in technology, FDACS now allows approved schools to offer the 40-hour Class D course online, as long as strict time-tracking and compliance requirements are met.

Advantages of Online Training

• 24/7 access from any device with internet connection.

• Self-paced: complete the course in as little as one week or spread it out over several weeks.

• Saves travel time and transportation costs.

• Full compliance with FDACS requirements through built-in timers and course tracking.
  
  

Disadvantages of Online Training

• Limited live interaction unless the provider offers instructor support.

• Some providers advertise “online” but still require you to attend physical meetings or testing centers.
  
  

Why DVPSTA is Different

At DVPSTA (FDACS Licensed School, DS License #DS3400004), we are one of the very few providers in Florida offering the Class D Security Officer course 100% online — with no hidden in-person requirements. Once you register, you can complete the entire course from the comfort of your home, at your own pace, while still meeting the 40-hour state mandate.

We are also proud to be among the only schools offering the course in both English and Spanish. This ensures that all students, regardless of language preference, can succeed in meeting state requirements and begin their security careers.

Our Online Advantage:

• 100% online — no travel, no mandatory in-person meetings.

• Fully bilingual platform — available in English and Spanish.

• Timed slides that ensure FDACS compliance with the 40-hour law.

• Instructor support available by phone, email, or live chat.

• Certificates issued immediately upon successful completion.
  
  

Comparison Table: Online vs. In-Person Training

The Bottom Line

While in-person training may work for some, most students prefer the flexibility of online learning. With DVPSTA’s fully online, bilingual Class D program, students save time, reduce costs, and complete their training on their own schedule — without sacrificing compliance or quality.

Completing the 40-hour Class D Security Officer training course is only part of the process. To earn your official Certificate of Completion, which is required for your FDACS license application, you must also pass two examinations administered by your training provider.

Mid-Course Exam

• Given around the halfway point of the course.

• Covers the first modules (Florida laws, professional conduct, ethics, patrol basics).

• Designed to ensure you are retaining key legal and procedural knowledge before moving forward.
  
  

Final Exam

• Administered at the end of the 40-hour course.

• Comprehensive — covering all required topics, including emergency procedures, observation techniques, report writing, and use of force guidelines.

• Passing score demonstrates readiness to work as a licensed security officer.
  
  

Grading & Requirements

• FDACS requires that you successfully pass both exams to receive your Certificate of Completion.

• Exams may be multiple-choice, scenario-based, or short written responses (varies by provider).

• At DVPSTA, we use a multiple-choice format with real-world scenarios to test both knowledge and application.
  
  

Certification Process

Once both exams are passed:

1. You receive your Certificate of Completion from your training provider.

2. The certificate will list the school name and DS License Number (DVPSTA – DS License #DS3400004) for FDACS verification.

3. You submit this certificate with your FDACS application, along with fingerprints, photo, and fees.

4. Without this certificate, FDACS will not process your application.
   
   

Why the Exams Matter

The exams are more than just a test of memorization — they ensure that every licensed officer in Florida has a baseline understanding of:

• Legal limits (knowing what you can and cannot do as a security officer).

• Public safety responsibilities (responding to emergencies, de-escalating conflict).

• Documentation skills (writing accurate, professional reports).

Employers trust the FDACS license process because it ensures officers aren’t just given a title — they’re properly vetted and educated to handle real-world challenges.

DVPSTA Exam Support

At DVPSTA, we want every student to succeed. That’s why we provide:

• Practice questions and study guides after each module.

• Instructor support in English and Spanish if you need clarification.

• Immediate exam feedback, so you know which areas to review.

• Flexible retakes if needed — ensuring you walk away with your certificate.

Once you’ve completed your 40-hour training course and passed the required exams, the next step is to apply for your Class D Security Officer License through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), Division of Licensing.

This step officially puts your training on record with the state and allows you to legally work as a licensed unarmed security officer.

Required Documents

When submitting your application, make sure you have:

• ✅ Completed Class D License Application Form (available online at FDACS.gov).

• ✅ Certificate of Completion from your training provider (DVPSTA – FDACS Licensed School, DS License #DS3400004).

• ✅ Valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport).

• ✅ Passport-style photo (can often be taken directly at FDACS offices).

• ✅ Proof of fingerprinting/background check submission.

• ✅ Application fee ($45) and fingerprinting fee ($42).
  
  

Ways to Apply

1. Online (Fastest Option)

• Submit your application through the FDACS Licensing Portal.

• Upload digital copies of your documents.

• Pay fees by credit/debit card.

• Processing typically begins immediately once fingerprints are received.
  
  

2. In-Person

• Visit a regional FDACS Division of Licensing Office.

• Staff can take your photo, fingerprints, and help you finalize the application in one visit.

• This is often the fastest way to get a temporary permit, allowing you to begin work while your background check is still pending.
  
  

3. By Mail

• Download the FDACS Class D application form, complete it, and mail it with required documents and payment.

• This method takes the longest time to process and is not recommended unless absolutely necessary.
  
  

Fingerprinting & Background Screening

• All applicants must submit fingerprints for a state and federal background check.

• Fingerprinting can be completed at FDACS offices or approved law enforcement centers.

• Cost: about $42 (separate from the $45 application fee).

• Your application will not move forward until fingerprints are submitted and cleared.
  
  

Application Timeline

• Online/In-Person Applications: Typically 10–30 days for approval.

• Temporary Permit: In some cases, FDACS can issue a temporary permit in 1–2 weeks, allowing you to start working while your application is pending final approval.

• Mail Applications: Can take up to 6–8 weeks.
  
  

Pro Tips for a Smooth Application

• Double-check that your training certificate includes the school’s DS license number (FDACS will reject certificates from non-approved providers).

• Submit all required documents at the same time to avoid delays.

• Keep copies of everything you submit for your records.

• If you move or change your contact information while waiting, notify FDACS immediately.
  
  

Why Many Students Apply In-Person

Although online submission is convenient, many students choose to apply in-person at FDACS regional offices because:

• Photos and fingerprints can be completed during the same visit.

• Staff can verify your paperwork on the spot.

• You may qualify for a temporary work permit, which gets you working sooner.

For the latest list of FDACS regional office addresses and hours, visit the official FDACS Division of Licensing Regional Offices page.

One of the most common questions future security officers ask is: “How much will it cost me to get my D-License?” The good news is that the process is affordable compared to many professional licenses. On average, students spend between $200–$300 total to meet all FDACS requirements.

Here’s a full breakdown:

Typical Cost Breakdown

Additional Considerations

• Travel Costs: If you choose in-person training, add transportation, gas, or parking fees. With DVPSTA’s 100% online option, you save on travel.

• Study Materials: At DVPSTA, all required course materials are included. Some providers charge extra for textbooks.

• Retake Fees: Rare, but some schools may charge a fee if you fail and need to retake an exam. At DVPSTA, we allow exam retakes without hidden charges.

• Bundle Discounts: Many students eventually pursue the Class G License (armed security). At DVPSTA, we offer a D + G License bundle so students can save on combined training costs.
  
  

Renewal Costs

The D-License is valid for 2 years. To keep it active, you must submit a renewal application and pay the renewal fee:

• Renewal fee: generally the same as the application fee ($45).

• Fingerprints: FDACS may require re-submission if retention isn’t on file.
  
  

How DVPSTA Helps You Save

Because DVPSTA offers the entire Class D training program online (with no mandatory in-person meetings), students save money on:

• Transportation and parking

• Time off work to attend classes in person

• Extra materials (we include everything digitally)

Many of our students complete the entire licensing process for as little as $200 total.

Once your Class D Security Officer License is issued by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), Division of Licensing, it is valid for two (2) years from the date of issuance. To continue working legally as a security officer in Florida, you must renew your license on time.

License Validity

• Length: 2 years from issuance date.

• Scope: Valid statewide in Florida. You may work as an unarmed security officer for any employer licensed under Chapter 493, Florida Statutes.

• Restriction: The D-License does not authorize you to carry a firearm. If you want to work armed, you must complete additional training for the Class G Security Officer License.
  
  

Renewal Process

FDACS will usually mail you a renewal notice 90–120 days before your license expires. However, it is your responsibility to renew on time, whether or not you receive the notice.

Steps to Renew:

1. Complete Renewal Application online, by mail, or in-person at an FDACS office.

2. Submit Renewal Fee (currently $45, subject to change).

3. Update Your Photo & Fingerprints if required. FDACS may require updated fingerprints if they are not on file or have expired in the system.

4. Maintain Your Certificate of Completion – your original training certificate remains valid, so no retraining is required for renewal.
   
   

Costs of Renewal

• Renewal Fee: $45 (paid to FDACS).

• Fingerprinting: May be required again depending on FDACS record retention (around $42).

• Late Fees: If your license has expired for more than 90 days, additional fees may apply.
  
  

What Happens if Your License Expires?

• You cannot legally work as a security officer until it is renewed.

• Employers are prohibited from assigning shifts to security officers with expired licenses.

• If more than 6 months have passed since expiration, you may have to reapply as a new applicant and repeat fingerprinting/background checks.
  
  

Best Practices to Avoid Expiration

• Mark your calendar at least 3 months before expiration to begin the renewal process.

• Ensure FDACS has your current mailing address and email so you receive reminders.

• Renew online if possible for the fastest processing.

Congratulations! Once you’ve earned your Class D Security Officer License, you’ve officially entered Florida’s security industry. But for many officers, the D-License is only the beginning of their professional journey. There are several pathways you can take to expand your skills, increase your earning potential, and specialize in higher-level security roles.

1. Class G Security Officer License (Armed Security)

• The Class G License authorizes you to carry a firearm while on duty as a security officer in Florida.

• Requirement: You must already hold a valid Class D License to apply for the Class G.

• Training: Requires 28 hours of firearms training through an FDACS-licensed firearms school. Training includes classroom instruction, safety, and live-fire exercises at a certified range.

• Job Benefits: Armed officers often earn higher pay and qualify for more specialized roles (bank security, armored transport, executive protection).

💡 DVPSTA offers a D + G License bundle, so students can complete both licenses with savings and a streamlined process.

2. Continuing Education & Specialty Training

Even if you don’t want to carry a firearm, additional training makes you more competitive in the job market. Examples include:

• CPR, First Aid, and AED Certification – Often required by employers and valuable in emergency response.

• Defensive Tactics & De-escalation Training – Enhances your ability to handle conflict without force.

• Hospital & Healthcare Security – Specialized knowledge for working in medical facilities.

• Event Security & Crowd Management – In demand for concerts, sporting events, and festivals.

DVPSTA provides training and consulting options that cover these real-world, high-liability environments.

3. Career Pathways in Security

With your Class D License, you can begin working in a variety of entry-level positions:

• Retail or mall security

• Office building or residential patrol

• Event and venue security

• Hospital or clinic security

• School or campus safety officer
  
  

From here, your career can grow into:

• Field Supervisor – Overseeing security teams.

• Corporate Security – Working in private companies or high-value facilities.

• Executive Protection (Bodyguard) – With additional specialized training and often requiring a G-License.

• Private Investigation – Some officers transition into investigative work after gaining field experience.
  
  

4. Renewal & Long-Term Growth

Don’t forget that your Class D License must be renewed every two years. As you renew and continue training, consider building your résumé with certifications that keep you competitive.

5. Why Continue with DVPSTA

At DVPSTA (FDACS Licensed School – DS License #DS3400004), we don’t just stop at the D-License. We guide our students through the entire career development process:

• D + G License training bundles.

• Consulting and compliance training for advanced professional development.

• Bilingual instruction (English & Spanish) to make training more accessible.

• Instructor experience — our team includes law enforcement and public safety professionals with decades of real-world expertise.
  
  

The Bottom Line

Your Class D License opens the door to Florida’s security industry, but the real opportunities come when you continue building your skills and credentials. Whether your goal is to work armed security, specialize in event safety, or move into leadership, DVPSTA is here to train, guide, and support you every step of the way.

Earning your Class D Security Officer License is more than just meeting a legal requirement — it’s your entry into a growing and essential industry. Security officers play a critical role in keeping people, property, and businesses safe, and the demand for licensed professionals in Florida continues to rise.

Industries that Hire Licensed Class D Security Officers

With your license, you can work in a wide range of unarmed security positions, including:

• 🏬 Retail & Mall Security
  Monitor entrances, deter theft, and provide a safe shopping environment.

• 🏢 Corporate & Office Building Security
  Control access to workplaces, manage visitor logs, and patrol facilities.

• 🏘️ Residential Communities & HOAs
  Patrol neighborhoods, check amenities, and assist residents with safety concerns.

• 🎶 Event & Venue Security
  Support concerts, sporting events, conventions, and festivals with crowd management.

• 🏥 Hospital & Healthcare Security
  Provide safety in high-stress environments, protect staff and patients, and assist in emergencies.

• 🎓 Schools & Universities
  Assist in maintaining safe campus environments by monitoring activity and responding to incidents.
  
  

Job Outlook & Demand

• According to labor market data, Florida is one of the top states for security officer employment due to its large population, tourism industry, and high volume of residential communities.

• The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects continued growth in the security field nationwide.

• Employers consistently look for licensed officers because FDACS certification ensures basic training and background checks are complete.
  
  

Average Pay for Class D Licensed Officers in Florida

While pay can vary by city, industry, and employer, most unarmed security officers with a D-License earn:

• $15–$20 per hour for standard positions.

• $32,000–$40,000 annually for full-time employment.

• Higher pay in specialized roles (hospitals, corporate security, or overnight shifts).

💡 Many employers prefer or require additional certifications such as CPR/AED, first aid, or defensive tactics — these can boost your employability and pay.

Advancement Opportunities

A Class D License is just the first step. Once you gain experience, you can advance to:

• Class G Security Officer (Armed) — higher pay and more job options.

• Field Supervisor — leading teams of officers.

• Loss Prevention Specialist — working in retail environments to prevent theft and fraud.

• Executive Protection Agent — bodyguard services, often requiring a G-License.

• Private Investigator — some officers transition into investigative work after building field experience.
  
  

How DVPSTA Helps with Career Placement

At DVPSTA (FDACS Licensed School – DS License #DS3400004), we don’t stop at training. We support our students by:

• Offering career guidance and resume tips to stand out in applications.

• Connecting students with job opportunities through our network.

• Preparing you for future training, including the Class G License and specialized certifications.

• Providing bilingual training in English and Spanish, opening doors to broader employment opportunities.
  
  

Submitting Incomplete Applications

FDACS requires several documents to process your license, including your Certificate of Completion, application form, fingerprints, photo, and payment. If anything is missing, your application will be put on hold until you resubmit.

Not Using Your Full Legal Name

One of the most common (and costly) mistakes is failing to use your full legal name exactly as it appears on your government-issued ID.

• Example: If your ID says “Jose Daniel Montoya Alvarez” but you only write “Jose Montoya” on your application, FDACS will reject or delay your license.

• Your training certificate, application, fingerprints, and photo ID must all match perfectly.
  
  

👉 At DVPSTA, we double-check every certificate before issuing it to ensure your full legal name is listed correctly.

Delaying Fingerprinting

Some students complete the training and submit their application but forget to schedule fingerprints right away. FDACS will not process your application until fingerprints are on file. Since background checks can take several weeks, this step often causes the longest delays.

Choosing Non-Approved Training Schools

If you complete your training with a school that is not FDACS-approved or does not include their DS License number on your certificate, FDACS will not accept your training hours. Always verify your school’s license status before enrolling.

Ignoring Application Deadlines

• Waiting too long to submit your application after training.

• Forgetting to renew your license before it expires.

• Not updating FDACS when your mailing address changes.
  
  

All of these can prevent you from working legally until the issue is fixed.

Providing Incorrect or Outdated Information

• Submitting old addresses, expired IDs, or incomplete personal details.

• Forgetting to disclose certain parts of your background (FDACS will find them in your fingerprint check).

• Minor errors — like typos in Social Security numbers or dates — can cause weeks of delays.
  
  

Assuming Online = 100% Online (with other providers)

Some training providers advertise “online” courses but require students to attend in-person check-ins or testing. Students discover this too late, forcing them to rearrange their schedules.

👉 At DVPSTA, our Class D course is truly 100% online, bilingual (English and Spanish), and fully FDACS-compliant — with no hidden in-person requirements.

✅ Quick Checklist to Avoid Mistakes

• Use your full legal name on all documents (ID, certificate, application).

• Complete training at an FDACS-licensed school (with DS number).

• Submit fingerprints immediately after finishing training.

• Double-check your application before submission.

• Keep copies of all documents and receipts.

• Track your expiration date for timely renewals.
  
  

The Bottom Line

Most mistakes happen because applicants rush the process or overlook small details. By taking the time to carefully review your documents — and working with an experienced training provider like DVPSTA — you can avoid costly delays and start your career on schedule.

With so many options available for security officer training, you may be asking: “Why should I choose DVPSTA for my Class D License course?” The answer comes down to credibility, convenience, and commitment to student success.

✅ 1. State-Licensed & FDACS Approved

DVPSTA is a fully licensed training provider under the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). Our approval is backed by our official DS License #DS3400004, which appears on every certificate we issue.

• This ensures your training certificate is recognized by FDACS with no risk of rejection.

• You can enroll with confidence knowing your hours count toward licensing.
  
  

✅ 2. 100% Online – No Hidden Meetings

Unlike other providers that advertise “online” but still require you to attend in-person check-ins, DVPSTA offers a true 100% online course.

• Complete your training from anywhere, at your own pace, on your own schedule.

• All course slides are timed and tracked to meet FDACS’s 40-hour requirement.

• No commuting, no extra fees, no wasted time.
  
  

✅ 3. Bilingual Instruction: English & Spanish

DVPSTA is one of the only training schools in Florida offering the Class D course in both English and Spanish.

• This makes our program accessible to more students statewide.

• Certificates are equally valid in either language — FDACS recognizes both.

• Our bilingual instructors are available for support in your preferred language.
  
  

✅ 4. Experienced Instructors with Real-World Expertise

Our training team is led by Darwin Villavicencio, a dual-certified Law Enforcement Officer and Firefighter Paramedic with over 25 years of experience.

• Darwin holds advanced certifications in criminal investigations, internal affairs, leadership, interview & interrogation, and fire investigations.

• He has served as a criminal justice adjunct professor at Miami Dade College and has trained countless students in high-liability areas of public safety.

• Every lesson is built on real-world experience, not just textbook theory.
  
  

✅ 5. Student-Focused Support

At DVPSTA, we don’t just hand you a course and leave you on your own. We provide:

• Live support via phone, email, or chat.

• Practice exams and study guides to ensure you pass.

• Flexible exam retakes if you need them.

• Step-by-step application guidance, so you don’t make costly mistakes.
  
  

✅ 6. Career Growth Beyond the D-License

Your career doesn’t stop at the Class D License. With DVPSTA, you can continue advancing through:

• Class G Firearms License training (D + G bundle available).

• First Aid, CPR, AED certification to make you more employable.

• Consulting and advanced training in areas like loss prevention, executive protection, and leadership.
  
  

The DVPSTA Difference

When you choose DVPSTA, you’re choosing more than just a training school — you’re choosing a partner in your professional journey. From your first course to your career advancement, we’re here to make sure you meet state requirements, avoid common mistakes, and succeed in Florida’s growing security industry.