Frequently Asked Questions

Question:
Do I need any former experience or training in security, military or law enforcement to join IAEPA or take any of its courses?

Answer:
Though these skills are favorably looked upon in the security industry and by clients as well, IAEPA does not require you to have any former experience or training in security, military or law enforcement to become a member or take any of our training programs.

Question:
What about re-certification? Some organizations require annual re-certification training and fees to remain active in their organization, do you as well?

Answer:
Yes, IAEPA requires graduate students to attend re-certification training every two years to remain current and up-to-date on their skill-set, training and information affecting the security industry and their profession.

Question:
Are there any annual membership renewal fees?

Answer:
Yes, Associate membership renewal fee is $50.00 due each year on the date you joined, to remain an active member in good standing. Lifetime Membership requires no annual renewal fee. Associate membership can be upgraded to lifetime membership for $75.00.

Question:
As the chief instructor, what are your qualifications and training?

Answer:
See "Founders Page"

Question:
I noticed that your classes are less expensive than other EP/Bodyguard schools I've researched on the internet. Why are your courses so inexpensive? Also, why aren't your classes larger than 12 students?

Answer:
IAEPA looked at the state of our economy and decided to help the serious student seeking quality training in executive protection to afford it at a reasonable price. In short, IAEPA is more concerned with offering high quality training to our students, than making a buck. Our class size is by design. Using the SGC (Small Group Concept) a lower student number allows for more individual instructor/student collaboration and a more solid and complete learning experience for the student.

Question:
If I decide to go through your EP training program, do I also have to pay a membership fee?

Answer:
No, the EP Training Program comes with an Associate  Membership into the IAEPA. You may upgrade to a lifetime membership for $50.00.

Question:
Will I be able to obtain a job after completing your training program(s)?  

Answer:
It is up to the student to be aggressive in the job market in networking, selling and marketing him/herself to the prospective client. Our executive protection course includes a block of instruction on how to network and market yourself and your business to obtain work in this highly challenging field.

Question:
Do you screen your students?

Answer:
Yes. We conduct criminal background checks on all of our students.

Question:
What if I have a criminal conviction ie: misdemeanor, etc. on my record? Can I still receive training through IAEPA.

Answer:
IAEPA has strict requirements, and screens all of its students. Any past infractions are carefully reviewed and handled on a case-by-case basis. IAEPA reserves the right not to accept anyone with a criminal record to include Felony or Misdemeanor charges.

Question:
What are the requirements for taking your executive protection course?

Answer:
Must be 21 years of age, of High Moral Character, Integrity, Professional Attitude, and pass a Background check.

Question:
What are my credentials worth?

Answer:
The credentials that are issued through the International Academy of Executive Protection Agents, are highly weighted and respected in the United States and Internationally. This organization acts as the official verifying and governing authority for your credentials, skills and competency, and may be contacted directly to verify and confirm your training, certification  and credentials.

Courses in Security Guard, Private Detective, Executive Protection and Firearms are approved through the Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies, and are conducted in compliance with GA Board Rules 509-3-06. Most "State Certified" courses are nationally recognized. However, you should check your state laws pertaining to working "Plain Clothes" security in your state, to see if there are additional requirements needed.

Question:
If I lose my IAEPA credentials or association lapel pin, can I get a duplicate?  

Answer:
Yes, duplicate credentials can be obtained through this office for a fee of $25.00. Replacement association lapel pins are $10.00 each and only sold to IAEPA graduates only.

Question:
Where is the IAEPA located?

Answer:
IAEPA Headquarters and main training facility is located in Lawrenceville, Georgia in the Corporate Lakes Business Park - 1605 Lakes Parkway, Lawrenceville, GA. 30043.

Question:
Do you offer any training materials ie: books, videos, DVD's, etc?  

Answer:
Yes, we offer a variety of books and training videos/DVD's at special discounts for our members. Prof. Holifield's books & videos can be ordered online at www.amazon.com, www.bn.com, www.paladin-press.com by email or visit our on-line store at www.IAEPA.org. Personally autographed copies of Prof. Holifield's books and videos can also be obtained at our training seminars.

Question:
Should I bring my firearm to class for training?

Answer:
Students may bring their personal (unloaded) firearm on range days only. All firearms will be thoroughly inspected for safety and functionability.

Question:
Do you accept the GI Bill?

Answer:
You must first complete VA Form 22-1990 to apply for Education Benefits. Then VA Form 22-0803 (Application for Reimbursement for Licensing or Certification Test Fees). Our classes are State Certified through the Georgia Board of Private Detectives and Security Agencies / Georgia Secretary of State Office.  You may also contact the VA (GI) Bill Department at 1-888-442-4551 to answer all questions regarding using your GI bill. Also visit: www.gibill.va.gov

Question:
Is 4 days enough time to learn EP?

Answer:
To enter the field of executive protection, you must first get the proper training. We pride ourselves in offering one of the most complete and comprehensive executive protection programs in the industry; covering all aspects of executive protection. Each day of our 4 day course focuses on the art of executive protection, to include hands-on practical training and the most current information affecting the security industry today. The result, is a student well informed and equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to operate effectively as an Executive Protection Agent. However, we highly suggest that you continue your formal training.

Question:
What do I bring to class?

Answer:
You should bring two passport size photos (one for your EP Photo ID Card and one for your IAEPA file). These photos may be purchased at Walmart, Walgreens or your local Post Office at a low cost. You should also bring proper ID ie: Drivers License, and/or Government ID. A "current" copy of your criminal backround report or your state weapons permit/license is required.

Question:
What is required to take your Advanced EP course?

Answer:
If you are new to the field of executive protecrtion or have not worked in the EP industry for several years, it is highly recommended that you take our 4 Day EP course before taking the advanced course. The advanced course is fast pasced and not for beginners. You should already be familiar with firearms, unarmed self defense techniques, EP manuvers and formation drills, etc. This course will build upon those learned skills while taking you to the next level in your EP training.

Question:
I heard somewhere that you need to be licensed as a Private Detective/Investigator to do EP work in the state of Georgia. Is this true?

Answer:
Yes, this is true. This is because in order to do "Plain Clothes" security/protection work in the (State of Georgia) you must be a licensed PI. Executive Protection is a component of Private Detective / Investigator.


There are exceptions to this rule regarding sworn law enforcememnt officers currently working in an executive protection capacity ie: state official security details to include but not limited to Mayor, Governor, and other state officials. All other armed security is performed by "Uniformed Security Officers". We also teach the 70 hour state mandated course in Private Detective & Investigations. Check your state laws as they pertain to working security in your state.

Georgia Law

Question:
I'm a Law Enforcement Officer. If an officer attends a job related seminar or out-of-state training course, will this count toward the annual 20 hour POST training requirement?

Answer:
To get credit for this type of training the officer must submit, to POST, a copy of the course completion certificate with his/her social security number written on the certificate along with documentation indicating the number of hours of training (agenda). Click here to download the required C12 cover sheet. A POST Certified Instructor must also be on-site for the duration of the course.