Overview

The Certified Lodging Security Director (CLSD®) is the most prestigious certification available to a security executive. It identifies the recipient as being part of an elite group of hospitality professionals who by combining education and experience with dedication to the industry have achieved a high level of expertise.

Globally recognized, the CLSD® is a highly respected professional credential that validates your advanced knowledge in the hospitality industry. It is an honor awarded to food and beverage professionals whose leadership and managerial abilities are exemplary.

Achieving the CLSD® certification announces that you have a place among the best in your profession, are abreast of current trends and latest hospitality protocols; and serves as leverage in current and future career opportunities.

Recertification

Once certified, designees are automatically enrolled in the CLSD® Recertification Program, which recognizes and rewards continuing efforts toward hospitality career growth. A portfolio to help track professional-development activities is provided. Every five years, the Certification Commission will recertify those who qualify based on their accomplishments. A new jeweled lapel pin (reflecting the number of years certified) and certificate are awarded at the time of each recertification.

Course Prerequisite

Because individual backgrounds vary widely in the hospitality industry, applicants may pursue the CLSD® designation through one of three options: Plan A emphasizes an education background; Plan B emphasizes industry experience; and Plan C emphasizes early entry. All plans require current full-time employment in the qualifying position* as well as documented evidence of managerial experience and successful completion of a comprehensive examination.

Plan A Eligibility -- Education Emphasis

• At least a 2-year degree from an accredited institution
•  Current full-time employment in a CLSD® qualifying position* with at least one year of full-time experience in one or more such positions.

Plan B Eligibility -- Experience Emphasis

•  Current employment in a CLSD® qualifying position* with at least two years of full-time experience in one or more such positions.

Plan C Eligibility -- Early Entry

Plan C requires a candidate to hold a qualifying position at the time of application. Plan C does not have an education requirement, but a degree will reduce the length of time you are required to spend in a qualifying position.

Through Plan C you can begin working on your CLSD® designation and demonstrating your commitment to professional development the first day on the job. Plan C enables you to take the CLSD® certification test up to three times so you can gauge your progress and knowledge against an industry proven standard. You no longer need to wait to see if you meet the benchmark of industry quality. You can prove it, and pursue a strong professional development regimen. This plan will allow individuals who are in qualifying positions to pursue their certification even if they are lacking in experience.

A Plan C candidate who is in a qualifying position:

• May sit for the examination BEFORE meeting the experience requirement.
• May take the examination up to 3 times.
• May sit for the examination while in the process of completing a degree.
• Will be required to submit documentation of employment at the time the experience requirement is met.

*Qualifications: Executive-level or management-level in security operations at a lodging hospitality company or Police Officers who provide tourism oriented policing.