Florida G License vs D License: What's the Difference?

🎯 Why Understanding the Difference Between G and D Licenses Matters

If you're planning a career in Florida security, understanding the Florida G license vs D license distinction is critical. Choosing the wrong path can lead to wasted time, unexpected licensing costs, or missing out on the types of jobs you really want. These two licenses serve very different roles, responsibilities, and salary levels.

The difference between G and D license Florida comes down to whether you want to be an unarmed officer (D License) or an armed officer authorized to carry a firearm (G License). Knowing the duties, risks, and legal expectations attached to each license helps you make an informed decision about your training, your career goals, and the investment you're willing to make.

###📚 What the D License Authorizes You to Do

Holding a D License certifies that you are qualified to perform unarmed security work in Florida. This includes positions such as mall security guards, concierge security officers at residential buildings, patrol guards at office complexes, and event security personnel for concerts or conferences. These roles involve observation, reporting, deterrence, and customer service—but without direct use of firearms.

The security d license vs g license florida distinction is especially important here: D license holders are expected to de-escalate situations verbally, observe carefully, and call law enforcement when needed. They are not authorized to use deadly force or carry weapons on duty unless separately permitted by law and licensed for armed work.

🛠 What the G License Authorizes You to Do

The G License is the armed security certification in Florida. If you hold a G License, you are legally permitted to carry a firearm while on duty, provided you work under the guidelines of your security employer’s firearm policies and Florida state law. Positions available to G License holders often involve high-value asset protection, armored vehicle security, government facility security, and executive protection services.

When comparing the g license vs d license florida, G License holders must complete significantly more training focused on firearm safety, use of force decision-making, and tactical response. Because of the higher risk and responsibility involved, G license positions often pay significantly more—sometimes $5 to $10 per hour higher than equivalent unarmed roles.

📖 Training Requirements: G vs D License

To obtain a D License, you must complete a 40-hour training course from an FDACS-approved provider. This course covers Florida law, patrol techniques, report writing, emergency procedures, and ethical responsibilities. After training, you apply to the state for your license with fingerprinting and a background check.

Obtaining a G License requires first holding (or concurrently pursuing) a D License. Then, you must complete an additional 28-hour firearms training course taught by licensed instructors. The florida security license comparison shows that armed training focuses intensely on weapon handling, shoot/no-shoot judgment, and deadly force laws. You must also pass a shooting qualification demonstrating proficiency with your assigned firearm.

📝 Salary Differences and Career Opportunities

One of the major considerations when evaluating Florida G license vs D license is salary potential. Unarmed security officers typically earn between $14–$18 per hour depending on location and employer. Armed security officers often earn between $18–$26 per hour, with some specialized roles offering even higher pay.

G License holders can also access a wider range of career opportunities, including roles in government contracts, cash-in-transit companies, and high-profile executive protection agencies. However, with higher pay comes greater expectations for professionalism, judgment under stress, and continual skills maintenance, including annual firearms requalification.

🏆 Success Stories: Choosing the Right License Path

One candidate started with a D License and worked residential security for a year. After gaining experience, he pursued his G License and transitioned into armored truck escort services, doubling his hourly wage within 18 months. His careful, step-by-step career planning allowed him to build confidence before taking on armed responsibilities.

Another candidate jumped straight into G License training, motivated by the higher earning potential. Thanks to strong firearm skills and deep study of Florida’s deadly force laws, she landed a position at a top-tier corporate security firm. Her story shows that with serious preparation, even new candidates can start strong in armed security roles.

📚 Frequently Asked Questions About G and D Licenses

● Can I get a G License without a D License?

No. You must have (or be in the process of obtaining) a valid D License to qualify for a G License in Florida.

● Is the G License training harder than D License training?

Yes. G License training demands greater physical coordination (shooting proficiency) and a much deeper understanding of deadly force laws.

● Can I hold both licenses at the same time?

Yes, and most armed security officers in Florida maintain both licenses throughout their careers.

● Do armed jobs guarantee higher pay?

Typically, yes. However, pay also depends on employer size, contract type, and specific job duties.

🚀 Choosing Your Security Path: Armed or Unarmed?

Deciding between a Florida G license vs D license path is a major career decision. Unarmed security work provides vital community protection and builds foundational skills. Armed security work offers higher pay, more complex duties, and greater responsibility. Neither is "better"—it depends on your goals, skills, and readiness for legal and ethical challenges.

If you start unarmed, you can always grow into armed positions later. If you're ready to commit fully now, starting armed might open doors to elite roles faster. Whatever path you choose, approach it with professionalism, seriousness, and pride. Florida needs skilled, ethical security officers—and your licensing journey is the first step toward making a real difference.

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