If you are interested in becoming a Range Safety Officer (RSO) in 2025—specifically at our facility, we offer a variety of training opportunities to help you achieve certification. As an RSO, you will be responsible for overseeing the safety of individuals at a shooting range, ensuring that all safety protocols and range rules are followed, and handling any firearm stoppages or malfunctions that may occur.
How to Become a Certified RSO
There are two primary ways to become an NRA-certified Range Safety Officer (RSO):
- Online Course Option – If you are currently an NRA Certified Firearm Instructor, you may complete the RSO course online through the NRA.
- Classroom-Based Course (with us) – Those who are not NRA Certified Firearm Instructors must take the RSO course in person, which is conducted by a Chief Range Safety Officer (CRSO) in Okeechobee, FL.
Course Content
The RSO training covers a few essential topics, ensuring participants fully understand their new responsibilities as Range Safety Officers. The six core lessons include:
- Introduction to the NRA Basic Range Safety Officer Development Course
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- Overview of the role of an RSO
- Understanding the importance of range safety
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- The Role of the NRA Range Safety Officer and Range Standard Operating Procedures
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- Responsibilities of an RSO
- Developing and enforcing standard operating procedures (SOPs) of the range you are using
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- Range Inspection and Range Rules
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- Conducting routine range inspections—making sure that the area is safe
- Implementing and enforcing range rules—making sure that those who are with you are safe
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- Range Safety Briefing
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- Conducting safety briefings for shooters
- Communicating important safety protocols
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- Emergency Procedures
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- Handling emergency situations
- Responding to injuries and accidents
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- Firearm Stoppages and Malfunctions
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- Identifying and addressing firearm malfunctions
- Ensuring safe firearm handling during stoppages
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After completing these six lessons (online or in-person), participants must pass an electronically administered test with a minimum score of 90% to earn certification. If a participant fails, they will have two additional opportunities to retake the exam. If unsuccessful after three attempts at completing the test online, you must enroll in a classroom-based course with an NRA Certified Chief Range Safety Officer to continue pursuing certification.
Why Take an In-Person RSO Course?
No matter how experienced you are, you have room to learn new lessons. And there really is nothing as potent as hands-on training when it comes to 1) handling firearms and 2) making sure others handle theirs safely.Â
How long does it take?
This is a one day course that starts at 9:00 AM and runs to 5:00 PM.
How does certification work?
Upon successful completion, you will receive a certification that can be printed or saved for records.
Weekday Access
One of the biggest perks of completing RSO training is 1) renting a private range without having to also plan for a range-assigned RSO and 2) the ability to rent ranges during weekdays.
Our hours of operation to the public are Thursday – Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM. But with your RSO certification and the right membership, you can have the whole range to yourself.
Advancing to Chief Range Safety Officer (CRSO)
After becoming an RSO, individuals can advance their training by becoming a Chief Range Safety Officer (CRSO). The CRSO certification allows individuals to train and certify new RSOs, ensuring that ranges are staffed with knowledgeable and well-trained safety officers. Additionally, CRSOs are crucial in developing and maintaining a range of standard operating procedures (SOPs), conducting training sessions, and supervising RSOs on duty.
Additional Requirements for Becoming an RSO
To qualify as a Range Safety Officer, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a valid firearms license (also known as a PAL in Canada, though different regulations apply in the U.S.).
- Possess extensive firearms experience and knowledge of shooting range operations.
- Be in good physical and mental health to handle emergencies and maintain safety.
- Pass a criminal record check and a vulnerable sector check if applicable.
- Hold valid first aid certification, which is essential for handling medical emergencies at the range.
2025 RSO Course Schedule in Okeechobee, FL
The cost for this training is $189.99 for members or $249.99 for non-members. To sign up, please call the Okeechobee Shooting Sports Pro-shop at 863-357-3006 Thursday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Each session is limited to 12 participants.Â
Please, note: As this is an NRA sponsored course, NRA membership is required.
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Again, you can sign up by calling the Okeechobee Shooting Sports Pro-shop at 863-357-3006 Thursday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Why Become an RSO?
Becoming a certified RSO is an excellent opportunity for those passionate about firearm safety and responsible shooting practices.Â
It’s also a great way to rent outdoor gun ranges in Florida hassle free!
As an RSO, you will play a vital role in ensuring the safety of range users, enforcing regulations, and maintaining a secure shooting environment. Whether you are looking to work at a shooting range, assist in competitions, or advance to a Chief Range Safety Officer, the RSO certification is an important step toward achieving your goals.
