Florida Statutory requirements

---

What does it actually take to become a Special Officer protecting Florida’s common carriers?

There is often confusion about the qualifications required to serve as a Special Officer under Chapter 354, Florida Statutes. These positions are not security guard roles — they require individuals who meet the same statutory minimum standards required of Florida law enforcement officers.

Under Florida Statute 943.13, individuals must meet the following minimum qualifications before they can be employed or appointed as an officer:

• Be at least 19 years of age

• Be a citizen of the United States

• Be a high school graduate or equivalent

• No felony convictions or disqualifying criminal history

• No dishonorable discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces

• Fingerprints processed and maintained through FDLE systems

• Pass a physical examination meeting Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission requirements

• Be determined to have good moral character through a background investigation

• Complete the required CJSTC affidavit of applicant disclosures

• Successfully complete a commission-approved law enforcement training program (or qualify for a statutory exemption)

• Pass the Florida officer certification examination

• Maintain required continuing training and education

In addition to these statutory qualifications, Special Officers appointed for common carriers are also required to maintain a $5,000 surety bond as part of their appointment.

Because of these requirements, Special Officers serving transportation systems are trained law enforcement professionals, not contract security personnel.

These officers protect:

• Railroads and rail corridors

• Bus and passenger transportation systems

• Freight carriers and cargo operations

• Terminals, depots, and transportation infrastructure

• Employees, passengers, and clients relying on these networks

Florida Common Carrier Services LLC works with transportation companies to implement Chapter 354 Special Officer programs that provide dedicated law enforcement capability focused on the carrier’s operations.

Transportation networks are critical infrastructure. Protecting them requires professionals who meet the same statutory standards expected of law enforcement officers.