High School

The minimum educational requirement for armed truck drivers is a high school diploma or a GED.  Classes in English and writing will be helpful when writing reports. Driver’s education classes are also useful.

Postsecondary Education

While postsecondary education is often helpful for career advancement, it is not generally required. Those interested in postsecondary education might consider majoring in criminal justice. Other formal training might be in security or corrections. Classes in various areas of law enforcement techniques will be helpful.

Employees typically receive on-the-job training prior to beginning their new jobs and going out in the field to assure they are familiar with the company’s procedures and practices. This training may include things like company protocol and regulations regarding safety and the use of force, report writing, weapons possession, firearms use, and so on. It also might include first aid and public relations.

Other Education and Training

Armored truck drivers generally undergo driving and vehicle training to help them keep control of their truck and avoid interference from other vehicles. They must know how to use firearms. Certain states require continuing training to retain licensing. ASIS International, a trade association for security professionals advocates yearly re-training and courses in firearms use.

Certification or Licensing

Voluntary certification is available through ISAS International. The Physical Security Professional (PSP) credential provides demonstrable knowledge in a number of areas including threat assessment, risk analysis, integrated physical security systems, and security measures.

In order to obtain certification, individuals must take and pass an exam which covers tasks, knowledge, and skills in various areas of physical security management.

Eligibility requirements to take the credentialing exam include a high school diploma or GED, or an Associates degree and six years of progressive physical security experience or a bachelor’s degree or higher and four years of progressive physical security experience.

Armored truck drivers must hold a valid, clean driver’s license from the state in which they live. Those who drive armored trucks which are over 2,600 pounds, must additionally have a commercial driver's license.They must also hold a firearms permit. Some states require state registration or licensing.

Other Requirements

Individuals must meet the specific state's minimum age requirement and be in good physical shape. It is essential that armored truck drivers have no history of criminal activity. Prior to being hired, individuals must go through an extensive background check as well as getting fingerprinted and being drug tested. Some companies also have individuals go through a mental evaluation.

Experience requirements vary from job to job. Individuals seeking employment as an armored truck driver trainee generally build their experience through on-the-job training. Some jobs may required full-fledged armored truck drivers to have two or three years of experience. It all depends on the job.

Any experience in the security industry or transportation will be helpful.

Individuals in this line of work need to be honest, trustworthy people with a lot of initiative. They should have leadership skills and a willingness to take charge and offer direction when necessary. They must be observant and have good decision making skills.

Physical strength is necessary to lift and carry heavy bags of coins and valuables weighing from 30-50 pounds. Physical fitness is also necessary. Drivers must have the ability to comfortably get in and out of the armored vehicle up to 70 times per day.

Good communication skills are essential to communicate with customers as well as the individual's partner and the base location via radio, phone, or a two-way radio.