Unarmed Professional Basic Training
This domain tests the entry-level legal and practical knowledge an Oregon unarmed private security officer must have before being assigned to a post. DPSST certifies unarmed officers under ORS chapter 181A and OAR chapter 259, division 060, and the exam probes your authority, your use of force, your observation and reporting, and your professional conduct.
Your authority is a citizen's authority
An unarmed officer has no police powers. Arrest authority comes from ORS 133.225: a private person may arrest for a felony when the person reasonably believes one occurred, or for a misdemeanor committed in the officer's presence, and must deliver the arrested person to a police officer or magistrate without unnecessary delay. Force is governed by ORS 161.205 through 161.255: only the amount reasonably necessary to defend yourself or another person, to prevent escape, or to protect premises and property. Deadly force is limited to preventing imminent death or serious physical injury.
Observe, record, report
Write facts, not conclusions. 'Speech slurred, staggered, smelled of alcohol' beats 'was drunk.' Record times, exact words, descriptions, witnesses, and every handoff of evidence.
Worked example
You watch a man conceal a $60 jacket and walk past the register. Reasoning: the value makes this third-degree theft, a Class C misdemeanor under ORS 164.043, and it happened in your presence, so a citizen's arrest is available. You identify yourself, ask for the item, call police, use only the force needed, and document the sequence. Had the value been $150, the same analysis applies but the classification changes.
Traps that cost marks
Treating a 'detention to investigate' as lawful when you cannot name the crime; handcuffing for convenience; searching bags without consent or a lawful basis; writing opinions instead of observations; going hands-on before calling for police.