Most states require that guards be licensed. To be licensed as a guard, individuals must usually be at least 18 years old, pass a background check, and complete classroom training in such subjects as property rights, emergency procedures, and detection of suspected criminals. Drug testing is often required, and may be random and ongoing. Armed guard positions have more stringent background checks and entry requirements than those of unarmed guards because of greater insurance liability risks. Some employers have three shifts where guards rotate to divide daytime, weekend, and holiday work equally.
Guards usually eat on the job instead of taking a regular lunch break.
Employment of guards is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2008, as increased concern about crime, vandalism, and terrorism will heighten the need for security. Demand for guards will also grow as private security firms increasingly perform duties which were formerly handled by government police officers and marshals.