How to Become a Bodyguard
A bodyguard is a personal security officer who protects clients from such threats as assault, kidnapping and stalking. Bodyguards protect by assessing threats, planning routes and searching cars and buildings. Ideally, preparation and presence are all that are necessary to prevent an attack, but bodyguards also must be prepared to use force if necessary. Oftentimes, armed bodyguards also serve as drivers for their clients. Individuals who elect to hire bodyguards include those frequently in the public eye such as celebrities and politicians, and they may be at a higher risk than civilians. Very wealthy individuals may also elect to hire protection for themselves or their family members. Employment opportunities may be found through private security companies or with an individual client.
Bodyguard Requirements
| Education | Training in defense, weaponry, and combat required |
| Job Skills | Physical fitness, weapons knowledge, active thinking, and defense experience |
| Median Salary (2021)* | $31,470 (for security guards) |
| Job Outlook (2021-2031)* | 3% increase (for security guards) |
There are a number of requirements to be a bodyguard that an applicant must meet when they are learning how to be a bodyguard. An applicant will require training in defense, weaponry, and combat and must have experience in using this training. An armed bodyguard must also be knowledgeable in weapons and highly physically fit.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Educational Requirements
No formal education or degree is typically required of those who want to become armed bodyguards, however, a high school diploma or GED as well as on-the-job training and certificate programs in bodyguard training. is typically required. Though minimal formal education is necessary there are a number of requirements to be a bodyguard. Training in defense, weaponry, and combat are body guard requirements in almost every case. An education in criminal justice gives bodyguards an advantage in obtaining job opportunities. Training for bodyguards may be provided by private security companies to their current or potential employees and includes classes in unarmed combat, threat assessment, and first aid. Armed bodyguard jobs will require additional training and certification.
Licensing Requirements
In order to carry a weapon, a firearms permit must be obtained. Weapons licensing varies per state, with some regions of the country disallowing private security officers from carrying concealed weapons.
Required Skills
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that bodyguards must exhibit the following traits:
- Experience in the field of combat and defense
- Excellent vision and hearing
- Strong physical shape
- Familiarity and knowledge of a wide range of weapons, both from an offensive and a defensive perspective
- Active thinking, critical analysis and communication skills
Personal Bodyguard Job Description
A personal bodyguard will keep a single client safe from harm or unwanted attention. These bodyguards often work for celebrities, rich clientele, politicians, or anyone with enough money or power to be at risk. A bodyguard will often be in close proximity to their client to ensure no harm comes to them and may use security devices and drive their clients. Typically a personal bodyguard will check venues and premises before their client enters them and ensure there are no threats.
Bodyguard Career Information
According to the BLS, security guard positions were expected to increase by about 3% from 2021-2031. As budgets for police departments are reduced, many large corporations and individual clients are expected to hire private security to compensate with elevated surveillance. The BLS also reported that in May 2021, the median annual salary for security guards was $31,470. Although salaries for entry-level bodyguard positions may be relatively low, high-paying jobs for private clients may pay more. Hours are typically set for guards working at a security company, while personal bodyguards are sometimes required to be on call 24 hours a day, every day.
