What You Need to Do to Get an Armed Security License

An armed security license lets you carry a firearm while working as a security guard. The path to getting one depends on which state you live in, because each state sets its own rules for training, background checks, and permits. Most states require you to complete a firearms safety course, pass a background check, and get fingerprinted before you can carry a weapon on the job.

The process typically takes between two and eight weeks, depending on how fast your state processes paperwork and how quickly you can schedule your training. You will need to pay fees at several stages — for the course itself, for fingerprinting, and for the license — though these amounts vary widely by state and county.

Key Takeaways

  • Every state requires some form of firearms training before you can carry a weapon as a security guard, though the length and content of that training varies.
  • You will need to pass a background check and submit fingerprints, which means any felony conviction or certain misdemeanors can disqualify you.
  • Your state's licensing board or your county sheriff's office is where you submit your completed paperwork and pay the license fee.
  • Some states require you to get a separate armed security license in addition to an unarmed security license, while others combine them into one.
  • Once licensed, you may need to renew every one to three years and complete refresher training to keep your license active.

Complete a Firearms Safety Course in Your State

Before you can even explore for a license, you must take a firearms training course approved by your state. This is not optional — states require it because they want to know you understand how to handle a weapon safely and legally. The course covers firearm mechanics, safe handling, shooting accuracy, legal use of force, and when you are and are not allowed to draw your weapon.

Course length varies by state. Some states require as few as 8 hours of training, while others demand 40 hours or more. You will need to find a course provider licensed in your state — your state's licensing board website usually lists approved instructors. After you finish, you will receive a certificate of completion, which you will need to submit with your license process.

The cost of these courses ranges from $200 to $1,000 depending on your state and the provider. Some security companies offer training to their employees, so if you already work in security, ask your employer whether they cover this cost.

Pass a Background Check and Get Fingerprinted

Your state will run a criminal background check before issuing your license. This check looks at felony convictions, certain misdemeanors, and sometimes civil judgments. A felony conviction almost always disqualifies you. Some states also deny licenses to people with certain misdemeanor convictions — particularly those involving violence, drugs, or dishonesty — though the specific crimes vary by state.

You will need to be fingerprinted as part of this process. Your state's licensing board or sheriff's office will tell you where to go for fingerprinting, or you can go to a private fingerprinting service and have them submit your prints directly to the state. Fingerprinting typically costs $15 to $50 and takes about 10 minutes.

The background check itself can take anywhere from one to four weeks, depending on how busy your state's licensing board is. During this time, the state is checking with the FBI, local police, and sometimes other agencies.

Submit Your process to Your State's Licensing Board

Once you have your training certificate and your fingerprints have been submitted, you are ready to explore for your armed security license. You will submit your process to your state's licensing board — this might be called the Department of Public Safety, the Department of Licensing, the State Police, or something similar depending on where you live. Some states let you explore online; others require you to mail in a paper form.

Your process packet will typically include your training certificate, proof of your background check, a completed process form, a photo (usually passport-style), and a fee. The fee ranges from $50 to $300 depending on your state. Some states also require you to show proof of employment with a security company or proof that you have a job offer waiting.

After you submit, the board will review your paperwork. If everything is in order, you will receive your license in the mail. If something is missing or unclear, they will contact you and ask you to resubmit. This review period usually takes two to four weeks.

Understand the Difference Between Armed and Unarmed Licenses

Some states issue a single security license that covers both armed and unarmed work. Others require two separate licenses — one for unarmed security and a different one for armed security. If your state requires two licenses, you will need to complete the unarmed training first, then the armed training, and submit separate applications.

The unarmed license is usually easier and faster to get because it does not require firearms training. It typically involves a shorter course (sometimes just 8 to 16 hours) and a simpler background check. If you are not sure whether your state requires one or two licenses, call your state's licensing board directly — they can tell you the exact path for your situation.

Renew Your License Before It Expires

Armed security licenses do not last forever. Most states require you to renew every one to three years. When your renewal notice arrives, you will need to submit a renewal process, pay a renewal fee (usually $50 to $150), and sometimes complete refresher training.

Some states require you to take a short refresher course — often 4 to 8 hours — before you can renew. Others only require refresher training if you have had a break in employment or if your license has been expired for more than a certain period. Check your renewal notice or call your licensing board to find out what your state requires.

Do not wait until your license expires to renew. Most states let you renew up to 90 days before your expiration date, and renewing early keeps you from having a gap in your legal ability to carry a weapon on the job.

Know What Can Disqualify You or Delay Your process

A felony conviction will almost certainly disqualify you from getting an armed security license. Many states also deny licenses to people with misdemeanor convictions for violence, drug offenses, or crimes involving dishonesty. Some states look at civil judgments too — for example, a restraining order against you might disqualify you.

Even if you do not have a criminal record, your process can be delayed if your paperwork is incomplete, if your fingerprints do not match the state's records, or if there is a name mismatch between your documents. If your process is denied, most states let you request a hearing where you can explain your situation to a board member.

Mental health history can also matter in some states. A few states deny licenses to people who have been hospitalized for mental illness or who have certain psychiatric diagnoses. Check your state's specific rules before you explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get an armed security license?

The entire process usually takes between four and eight weeks from start to finish. This includes time for your firearms training course (which might be one weekend or spread over several weeks), fingerprinting and background check processing (one to four weeks), and the licensing board's review of your process (two to four weeks). Some states are faster; others slower.

Can I carry a gun while I am waiting for my license to arrive?

No. You cannot legally carry a firearm for work until your license is in your hand. Working armed without a license is a crime in every state. If your employer is pressuring you to carry before your license arrives, that is illegal and you should report it to your state's licensing board.

What if I move to a different state after I get my license?

Your license is only valid in the state that issued it. If you move, you will need to get a new license in your new state. Some states have reciprocity agreements that recognize licenses from other states, but this is rare for armed security licenses. Contact your new state's licensing board to find out what you need to do.

Do I need a separate concealed carry permit in addition to my armed security license?

It depends on your state. Some states consider an armed security license sufficient for carrying a weapon while on the job. Others require you to also get a concealed carry permit. Your licensing board can tell you whether you need both or just one.

What happens if I fail the background check?

If you are denied a license because of your background check, the licensing board will send you a written notice explaining why. Most states let you request a hearing where you can present your side of the story. You can also ask the board to reconsider if new information comes to light that changes the outcome of your background check.