Security Officer Physical Fitness Requirements
Security officers — especially those working in government facilities, airports, or armed guard roles — are often required to pass a physical fitness test during the hiring process. A push-up, sit-up, and timed run format is one of the most common screening methods used across private security firms and public agencies.
Each event is scored on a 10-point scale for a total of 30 points. A total score of 18 or higher (60%) is generally required to pass. Scoring zero on any event typically results in automatic disqualification, so addressing weak events through targeted training is critical before the test date.
Standards vary by employer and position. Armed security, government-site guards, and law enforcement-adjacent roles typically apply stricter standards than standard commercial security positions. Always confirm the specific requirements with your prospective employer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many security officer positions — especially armed or government-site roles — require a fitness screening. Standards vary by employer and state, but push-ups, sit-ups, and a timed run are commonly used.
Yes. Women typically have adjusted thresholds. For example, the Grade 10 push-up standard is 40 for women versus 58 for men. Both genders share the same 60% pass threshold.
Focus on the event with the lowest score first. Consistent daily push-up training, interval running, and core work 3–5 times per week can produce noticeable improvement in 4–8 weeks.