New York State Security Guard Practice Exam 2025 - Free Security Guard License Practice Questions and Study Guide

In New York, security guards have a specific legal authority that is primarily focused on maintaining safety and order within the premises they are assigned to. They are allowed to detain individuals in certain situations, specifically when they have reasonable suspicion of wrongdoing. This means if a security guard observes someone engaging in suspicious activity or violating the rules of a property, they may detain that individual briefly until law enforcement arrives to take over.

This limited authority is designed to empower security personnel to handle potential threats while also respecting the rights of individuals. It does not grant security guards the same powers as law enforcement officers, such as the authority to arrest individuals or issue fines, which is reserved for those who have received specific training and certification in law enforcement. This delineation ensures that while security guards play a crucial role in safety and security, they operate within a framework of legal limitations that ensure proper protocol is followed.