The North Dakota Senate Industry and Business Committee has taken significant steps to enhance training and certification processes for security personnel and private investigators during their meeting on February 17, 2025. The committee approved House Bill 10 45, which aims to streamline the training requirements for aspiring security officers and private investigators, making it easier for individuals to enter the field.

Under the new guidelines, individuals seeking to become registered security officers must complete 12 hours of training, followed by an additional 32 hours after working 1,000 hours in the field. This training can be conducted online, a shift that emerged from the demand for cost-effective solutions during the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill also allows for further advancement, enabling those who complete 3,000 hours of service and an additional 80 hours of training to challenge the security provider licensing test, paving the way for independent practice.

The committee discussed the importance of providing flexible training options, particularly non-live online courses, to accommodate various learning preferences and reduce barriers for entry into the profession. Most companies in North Dakota already employ certified trainers to conduct in-house training, ensuring that employees receive the necessary education without incurring additional costs.

In addition to security personnel, the bill also addresses the training pathways for private investigators, who can become licensed after completing 2,000 hours of work, with no formal training requirement beyond a high school diploma or GED.

The committee's unanimous support for House Bill 10 45 reflects a commitment to modernizing the training framework for these professions, ultimately aiming to enhance public safety and professional standards in North Dakota. As the bill moves forward, it is expected to facilitate greater access to training and certification, benefiting both individuals and the broader community.