Action Defense is proud to offer the OPOTA Private Security Certification Courses. Our Instructors are certified in both Private Security and Law Enforcement Firearms Training. In addition to the basic requirements, Action Defense offers Less Than Lethal classes to Private Security companies and individuals to help prepare them for the many conditions facing Private Security today.

2-Day Course | $235 for Class | Rentals and Supplies are additional.
The primary mission of Action Defense's Private Security Firearms program is to meet the needs of Ohio's Security forces by training proficient and prepared security guards who are ready to serve and adapt to the needs of their communities and employers.
This class fulfills all requirements to obtain your OPOTC Private Security Firearms Certificate.

4 Hour Course | $105 for Class | Rentals and Supplies are additional.
The State of Ohio requires that each armed security officer complete an annual re-qualification to demonstrate their proficiency with a firearms. Students must also pass a written test. This course must be completed by the expiration date of the certificate.
This class fulfills all requirements to obtain your Ohio Private Security re-qualification Certificate.

8-Week Course | $1900 for Class | $95 Test fee is additional
Now Enrolling for Spring Session 2026!
The 124-Hour Private Security Academy offers specialized training that will provide graduates with enhanced skills and greater career opportunities. We aim to develop knowledgeable, ethical, and professional security officers who are ready to serve the needs of their employer and the community.

The Private Security Academy offers specialized training that will provide graduates with enhanced skills and greater career opportunities. We aim to develop knowledgeable, ethical, and professional security officers who are ready to serve the needs of their employer and the community.
This program is designed to prepare the student to demonstrate some of the following learning outcomes:
Examples of jobs you will become qualified for after certification are Security Officer, Campus Security Officer, Custom Protection Officer, Hotel Security Officer, Loss Prevention Officer, Safety and Security Officer, Hospital or Medical Campus Security Agent, Auxiliary Police, Security Agent for municipal or state agencies.
According to the bureau of labor statistics: 2023 National Average Pay: $40,440 per year | $19.44/Hour
Students must be 18 years or older. Students must not have a felony conviction on their background.
$1900. for Class | $95 Test Fee is additional. Payment Plans Available. Inquiries can me made to our office at 440-218-2029
For detailed information on the 124-Hour Private Security Academy, view and download our free course catalog here:
2026 OPOTA 124-HR ACADEMY CATALOG (pdf)
DownloadCertifications in Less-Than-Lethal techniques are more in demand than ever before for Private Security as more and more employers seek qualified personnel who have these additional skill sets.
Action Defense's objective is to train proficient, prepared, and safe security guards. Your safety is just as important as that of the community you serve.
Whether you need to keep up on your firearms proficiency or to become certified in other areas, we've got you covered!
Our instructors ensure the student meets a competency-based standard of knowledge and performance. Each program is designed to prepare the student to demonstrate basic techniques as well as application procedures. In addition to learning the specifics of the weapon, students are always taught safety and proper use of force, capabilities of the weapon and its effects on the recipient, legal aspects, equipment maintenance, reporting and operational guidelines.
Below is our current offering of in-demand electives and Firearm skills builders:

4 Hour Course | $125.00
Next Class: Dec. 8, 2025
Private sessions available

8 Hour Course | $175.00
Next Class: Feb. 9-10, 2026

8 Hour Course | $175.00
Next Class: Jan 4, 2026

6 Hours | $160.00
Next Class: March14, 2026
Private sessions available

Get your group certified in First Aid and CPR. Private classes available.

2 Hour Course | $50.00
Prepare for your Requalification with this Shooting refresher and skills builder.

3 Hour Course | $100.00
Practice and perfect your OPOTA Shooting SPO's in this course of shooting.
To enroll, click any blue button on the website that says "Enroll Now". To see more dates, click the "More Events >" link at the bottom of this calendar.
By enrolling in an OPOTA Class you have determined your eligibility and agree to these policies:
REFUNDS: To receive a full refund, you must cancel your class at least 7 days before it is scheduled to begin. Cancellations received less than 7 days prior to the class date are non-refundable.
RESCHEDULING: We are happy to reschedule your class when you provide us with at least 48 hour notice before your scheduled class with the following guidelines:
NON-REFUNDABLE SCENARIOS: The enrollment fees are non-refundable in the following situations. Students who fall under these scenarios forfeit their enrollment and must pay the full enrollment fee to attend a future class.
CLASS CANCELLATIONS: Action Defense reserves the right to cancel any class due to enrollment, inclement weather or any other reason. In the event of a cancellation, students will be notified by email, and options for refunds or rescheduling will be provided.


Here you will find forms for your OPOTA Firearms Courses. Documents with a " * " are required to be typed, printed and brought to class
Arriving Prepared Checklist for OPOTA 4-HOUR REQUALIFICATION (pdf)
DownloadArriving Prepared Checklist for OPOTA 20 HOUR HR COURSE (pdf)
Download*Student Enrollment Certification Record (pdf)
Download*Student Disclosures and Statement of Understanding (pdf)
Download*Waiver of Liability Multiple Weapons v2 (pdf)
DownloadPrivate Security Firearms Written Test Study Guide/ SPO's (pdf)
DownloadShooting Qualification SPOs 7-12 (pdf)
DownloadShotgun Conditions Study Guide (pdf)
Download
Two of our shooters' WICKEDLY FAVORITE classes are unleashed weekend. Which challenge will you dare to take?
Defensive Handgun: When the bumps in the night get too close, your reaction is the only thing standing between you and the darkness. Train for the zombie apocalypse confrontation.
AR-15 Shooting Fundamentals: Master the beast. Learn the precision to strike fear into the hearts of your targets—or that pesky pumpkin.
Both courses will run your adrenaline frightfully high! Don't be caught defenseless this spooky season.
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