So You Want to Become a MD Special Police Officer, Here is How You Do It!

November 12, 2025•3 min read

How to Become a Maryland Special Police Officer (SPO)

If you’re ready to take your security career to the next level, becoming a Maryland Special Police Officer (SPO) is a powerful way to serve your community and gain law enforcement authority within private and government facilities. At Security Training Academy (STA), we guide you through every step — from training to application — so you can earn your commission and start protecting Maryland with confidence.

What Is a Special Police Officer?

A Special Police Officer (SPO) is a commissioned law enforcement officer appointed by the Maryland State Police under Public Safety Article §3–301–§3–317. SPOs have limited arrest powers and authority to enforce laws on the property they are commissioned to protect, such as schools, hospitals, apartment complexes, and government buildings.

This position bridges the gap between private security and sworn police service — ideal for individuals seeking advanced credentials or considering a future in law enforcement.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

Before enrolling in an SPO course, applicants must meet Maryland’s eligibility standards:

✅ Be at least 18 years old
✅ Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
✅ Have no felony convictions or serious misdemeanors
✅ Pass a state and FBI background check
✅ Possess a valid government-issued photo ID
✅ Be sponsored by a licensed security agency or employer (for most positions)

Step 2: Complete the 80-Hour SPO Training Program

At Security Training Academy, we offer the Maryland Special Police Officer 80-Hour Course — fully compliant with the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commissions (MPCTC) standards.

The program includes:

Maryland Criminal Law & Use of Force
Arrest Authority and Legal Procedures
Patrol Tactics & Report Writing
Defensive Tactics & Handcuffing
OC Spray & Baton Certification
Crisis Intervention and De-escalation (MOAB-certified)
Incident Command & Emergency Response

Training is available in-person and hybrid-online, with day, evening, and weekend options to fit your schedule.

Step 3: Submit Your Application to the Maryland State Police

Once you complete the training, you’ll receive a certificate of completion to include with your SPO Commission Application, submitted through the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal.

You’ll need to provide:

Training certificate
Fingerprint receipt (CJIS background)
Passport-style photo
Application fee
Employer/sponsor information (if applicable)

Step 4: Receive Your Commission & Start Your Assignment

After the Maryland State Police approve your application, you’ll receive a Commission Certificate and ID authorizing you to perform Special Police duties within the designated property or jurisdiction. Many SPOs go on to work in government facilities, hospitals, housing developments, corporate offices, and transportation hubs.

For armed SPOs, your Wear & Carry Permit will also be issued by the MSP once all training and documentation are verified.

Why Train with Security Training Academy?

Security Training Academy (STA) is Maryland’s leading security and law enforcement training center, located in Pasadena, MD. Our certified instructors — including MPCTC and USCCA-certified trainers — have decades of experience preparing officers for real-world success.

We provide: