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Close Protection Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ijetconnect

Executive Protection Medic

Palo Alto, CA

... close protection and emergency medical support. This role combines advanced medical proficiency ... Valid driver's license and ability to be insured * Ability to legally carry a firearm and obtain ...

ijetconnect

Executive Protection Medic

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

... close protection and emergency medical support. This role combines advanced medical proficiency ... Valid driver's license and ability to be insured * Ability to legally carry a firearm and obtain ...

ijetconnect

Executive Protection Medic

Palo Alto, CA

... close protection and emergency medical support. This role combines advanced medical proficiency ... Valid driver's license and ability to be insured * Ability to legally carry a firearm and obtain ...

Constellis

Personal Protection Officer

Reston, VA

$17 - $20/hr

At least one (1) year of experience in close protection, dignitary protection, or similar security detail assignments. * Valid US driver's license required. * Must be eligible to meet all physical ...

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How much do close protection driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for close protection driver in the United States is $23.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Close Protection Drivers and how are they addressed on the job?

Close Protection Drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating high-traffic areas, adapting to rapidly changing threat levels, and maintaining discretion while ensuring client safety. These challenges are addressed through rigorous route planning, ongoing risk assessment, and constant communication with the close protection team. Drivers participate in regular training to stay proficient in defensive and evasive driving techniques, and they coordinate closely with security personnel to respond swiftly to any potential threats.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Close Protection Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Close Protection Driver, you need advanced driving skills, security awareness, and often a background in law enforcement or military, with qualifications like an SIA Close Protection license. Familiarity with armored vehicles, GPS navigation systems, and defensive driving techniques is typically required. Excellent situational awareness, discretion, and strong communication skills help you remain calm and effective under pressure. These abilities are crucial to ensuring the safety and swift evacuation of clients in high-risk or potentially hostile environments.

What is the difference between Close Protection Driver vs Security Chauffeur?

AspectClose Protection DriverSecurity Chauffeur
CredentialsDriver's license, security clearance, defensive driving certificationDriver's license, defensive driving certification
Work EnvironmentHigh-security, client protection, often in unpredictable situationsLuxury transportation, corporate or VIP clients, routine routes
Employer & IndustrySecurity firms, private clients, government agenciesLuxury car services, corporate fleets, VIP transport

While both roles involve driving high-profile clients, a Close Protection Driver focuses on security and protection, often in unpredictable environments, whereas a Security Chauffeur primarily provides luxury transportation with an emphasis on comfort and punctuality.

What are Close Protection Drivers?

Close Protection Drivers are specialized security professionals responsible for safely transporting clients, such as VIPs, executives, or celebrities, while minimizing risk and ensuring their security. They are trained in defensive and evasive driving techniques, route planning, and threat assessment to protect clients from potential dangers like attacks, surveillance, or accidents. In addition to expert driving, they often work closely with personal security teams to coordinate logistics and maintain a high level of situational awareness during all movements.
More about Close Protection Driver jobs
What states have the most Close Protection Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Close Protection Driver jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Close Protection Driver jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Close Protection Driver jobs are:
Close Protection Driver jobs near you
Executive Protection Specialist - Global Protective Operations

Executive Protection Specialist - Global Protective Operations

Gavin de Becker & Associates (Website)

Washington, DC • On-site

$120K/yr

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Mission: The Safety, Privacy and Wellbeing of our Clients
Executive Protection Specialists are tasked with providing close protection coverage for GDBA clients during domestic and international field details. Every member of this team must be experienced, physically fit, flexible, and adaptable.
As a full-time hourly employee, first year earnings for this role will start at a minimum of $120,000 per year. This position offers earnings potential of up to $150,000+ commensurate with experience, overtime opportunities, and more. 
This is a travel-in position that is not tied to a specific GDBA Office. Suitable candidates should live within a short distance of a major airport.
Ideal candidates must possess all the following: 

  • Extensive real-world experience working in a close protection role with UHNW individuals or other types of recognizable public/government figures during domestic and international travel.
  • This role requires a high level of comfort operating as a security driver in various locations and vehicle types, including experience with route planning and driving a manual transmission vehicle.
  • Experience independently conducting both physical and online advances, resulting in clear, well-written advance reports. Candidates should demonstrate a strong familiarity with navigating FBOs, hotels, and a wide range of public venues.

Selection Process Requirements: 

  • 12-Day Introductory Training Academy in San Antonio, TX 
  • Must be able to pass physical readiness test (Pull-ups, Push-ups, Sit-ups, 800m run) 
  • Must be able to swim 
  • Must be drug and nicotine free 
  • Must be able to obtain appropriate state firearm and security licensing 
  • Background check required 

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