Diplomatic Security Service Training

The Bureau of Diplomatic Security provides security for overseas posts.

Training for the U.S. State Department's Bureau of Diplomatic Security varies depending upon the career track. Special agents and security engineering officers must successfully complete prescribed general and specialized training programs. On-the-job training continues during initial postings.

Time Frame

Special agents and security engineering officer candidates receive months of intense training from the bureau. Special agent training lasts at least six months, beginning with an orientation in Washington, D.C. and followed by specialized training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Brunswick, Georgia. Security engineering officers receive initial technical training that lasts nine months.

Features

Basic training for special agents involves learning criminal law and investigation, background investigations, personal protection techniques, firearms, defensive driving and first aid. Security engineering officers receive comprehensive training in technical and engineering subjects applicable to overseas security.

Special Agent Training

Special agents receive further training in specialized subjects in preparation for overseas assignments. These subjects include post operations, counterintelligence, security management, electronic security and foreign language instruction. Agents also receive training in advanced firearms techniques, ordnance detection, explosive devices, arson investigation and medical assistance.

References

• U.S. Department of State: Careers with the Bureau of Diplomatic Security