Approved by the Maryland Police Correctional Training Commission (MPCTC)
Applicants seeking initial commission as a Maryland Special Police Officer (SPO) must complete an approved training course. This training is mandated by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission (MPCTC) and includes a minimum of 80 hours of instruction. The curriculum covers essential topics, including:
Criminal Law
Constitutional and Procedural Requirements (search, seizure, and arrests)
Appropriate Use of Force
Completion of this training ensures that officers are equipped with the foundational knowledge needed to uphold the law and perform their duties effectively.
For Maryland SPOs seeking to renew their commission, applicants must complete 12 hours of in-service training that has been approved by the Secretary of State Police, in consultation with the MPCTC. This training ensures that officers stay up-to-date with current laws and procedural guidelines to maintain their certification.
In accordance with the Maryland General Assembly’s 2023 amendments to the Business Occupations and Professions Article § 19-402, individuals seeking certification as a Maryland Security Guard must complete 12 hours of initial security training. This training must be approved by the Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission (MPTSC), and it applies to all applicants who are seeking certification effective June 1, 2024, unless they have been employed as a security guard within the 3 years prior to their application.
Effective June 1, 2024, applicants seeking renewal of their Maryland security guard certification must satisfactorily complete 8 hours of continuing security training. This training must be approved by the Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission (MPTSC) under §19-412 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article. Applicants must also submit supporting documentation to demonstrate the completion of the required training to the Secretary of State Police.
(410) 870-5451