What You Need to Do to Become a Licensed Security Guard

To get a security guard license, you must complete a training course, pass a background check, and submit an process to your state's licensing authority—usually the state police or a dedicated licensing board. The exact steps and requirements vary significantly by state: some states require 8 hours of training, others require 40 hours or more. Some states issue licenses valid for two years, others for three or five. You will need to know which state you plan to work in before you start, because there is no single national security guard license.

The process typically takes four to eight weeks from start to finish, though it can be faster if you complete your training quickly and slower if the licensing board has a backlog. Most people complete the training course first, then explore for the license while waiting for their background check results.

Key Takeaways

  • Each state sets its own training hours, licensing fees, and renewal periods, so check your state's requirements before enrolling in any course.
  • You must pass a background check that screens for felonies, certain misdemeanors, and sometimes drug convictions—requirements vary by state.
  • Training courses are offered by private security companies, community colleges, and online providers, and cost between $100 and $500 depending on length and location.
  • After you complete training and pass your background check, you submit your process directly to your state's licensing authority with proof of both.

Find Your State's Specific Requirements

Before you enroll in any training, visit your state's official licensing website to confirm the exact hours required, the process fee, and what documents you need to submit. Most states post this information on the website of the state police, the Department of Public Safety, or a dedicated Private Security Board. Search "[your state] security guard license requirements" to find the right agency.

Write down the training hours required (often listed as "classroom hours" or "contact hours"), the process fee, the renewal period, and whether your state requires fingerprinting through the FBI or only through the state. Some states also require a written exam; others do not. Knowing these details now saves you from taking the wrong course or missing a required step.

Complete a State-Approved Training Course

You must take a training course from a provider your state recognizes. Most states maintain a list of approved training providers on their licensing website. The course covers topics like legal authority, use of force, emergency procedures, customer service, and report writing. Courses range from 8 hours (in states with minimal requirements) to 40 or 60 hours (in states with stricter standards).

Training is available in three formats: in-person classroom, online, or hybrid. In-person courses are usually one or two days of full-time instruction or several evenings spread over a few weeks. Online courses let you work at your own pace but still require you to pass a final exam, usually proctored in person or through a video service. Hybrid courses combine recorded lessons with one or two in-person sessions for the exam and any hands-on components.

The cost ranges from $100 to $500 depending on the course length and provider. Community colleges often charge less than private security companies. After you finish, you will receive a certificate of completion—keep this, because you must submit it with your license process.

Pass a Background Check

Your state will conduct a background check before issuing your license. The check screens for felony convictions, certain misdemeanors (often including assault, theft, or drug offenses), and sometimes disqualifying civil judgments. Specific disqualifying offenses vary by state, so review your state's rules if you have any criminal history.

Most states require you to be fingerprinted as part of the background check. You can usually get fingerprinted at your local police station, a sheriff's office, or a private fingerprinting service. The cost is typically $10 to $50. Some states include fingerprinting as part of the process process; others require you to arrange it yourself and submit the results with your process.

The background check takes two to four weeks on average. You do not need to wait for it to be complete before explore—you can submit your process as soon as you have your training certificate—but you will not receive your license until the check is done.

Submit Your process to Your State's Licensing Authority

Once you have your training certificate and fingerprints, submit your process to the state agency that issues security guard licenses. This is usually done by mail, though some states now accept online applications. You will need to include your training certificate, proof of fingerprinting, a completed process form (available on the state's website), and the process fee, which ranges from $50 to $200 depending on the state.

Some states also require a notarized statement, proof of citizenship or legal residency, or a copy of your driver's license. Check your state's process checklist to make sure you include everything—missing documents will delay your license. Mail your process to the address listed on the state's website, or submit it online if your state offers that option.

Receive Your License and Understand Renewal Requirements

After the licensing authority processes your process and completes your background check, you will receive your security guard license by mail. This typically takes two to four weeks after you submit your process, though some states are faster. Your license will show an expiration date—usually two to five years from the date of issue, depending on your state.

To renew your license before it expires, you will usually need to complete a refresher training course (often shorter than the initial course, sometimes 4 to 8 hours) and submit a renewal process with the renewal fee. Some states require renewal training every year; others only every few years. Mark your license expiration date on your calendar and check your state's website about 60 days before it expires to confirm the renewal process and important date.

Understand What Disqualifies You

Beyond criminal history, some states disqualify people based on other factors. Common disqualifications include active restraining orders, certain mental health conditions documented in court proceedings, loss of professional licenses in other fields, or being listed on sex offender registries. A few states also disqualify people who have been fired from previous security jobs for cause, though this is less common.

If you have any of these issues in your background, contact your state's licensing authority before you pay for training. They can tell you whether you are disqualified or whether you can still pursue a license. Some disqualifications are permanent; others expire after a certain number of years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a high school diploma or GED to get a security guard license?

Most states do not require a diploma or GED, but some do. Check your state's requirements on its licensing website. If your state does require one, you will need to provide proof when you explore.

Can I work as a security guard while my license process is being processed?

No. You must have an active, valid license to work as a security guard in most states. Some states allow you to work under a temporary permit while your process is pending, but this is rare and usually only available if you have already completed training and passed your background check. Ask your employer or your state's licensing authority whether temporary work is allowed.

What happens if I fail the background check?

If you are disqualified, the licensing authority will notify you in writing and explain why. You may be able to appeal the decision or reapply after a certain period of time, depending on your state's rules. Contact the licensing authority to ask about your options.

Can I transfer my security guard license to another state?

No. Each state issues its own license and sets its own requirements. If you move to another state, you must get a new license from that state. You may be able to use your previous training to satisfy part of the new state's requirement, but you will still need to explore and pass a background check in the new state.

How much does a security guard license cost in total?

The total cost ranges from $150 to $700 depending on your state and the training provider you choose. This includes the training course ($100 to $500), fingerprinting ($10 to $50), and the process fee ($50 to $200). Some states charge less; others charge more. Check your state's website for exact fees.