What you need to do to become an armed security guard

To carry a weapon as a security guard, you need both a security guard license and a separate armed security endorsement or permit. The security guard license comes first—it's the foundation. The armed endorsement is what lets you carry a gun on the job. Every state sets its own rules, so the exact steps depend on where you work.

Most states require you to complete a classroom course (usually 8 to 40 hours), pass a background check, and pass a written exam before you get the basic security license. After that, you explore for the armed endorsement, which almost always means taking a firearms safety course, passing a shooting test, and passing another background check. Some states also require you to be fingerprinted and to show proof of training from a certified instructor.

The whole process typically takes 4 to 12 weeks from start to finish, depending on how quickly your state processes paperwork and how soon you can schedule your courses and exams.

Key Takeaways

  • You must get a basic security guard license before you can get an armed endorsement—they are two separate credentials.
  • Most states require classroom training (8 to 40 hours), a background check, and a written exam for the security license.
  • The armed endorsement requires a firearms safety course, a shooting proficiency test, and a second background check in most states.
  • State rules vary widely, so you need to contact your state's licensing board or your employer to learn the exact requirements where you live.
  • Fingerprinting, drug screening, and proof of citizenship or legal residency are common additional requirements across most states.

Get your basic security guard license first

Before you can carry a weapon, you must hold a valid security guard license. This is a separate step from the armed endorsement. To get it, you typically need to complete a state-approved security guard training course. The length varies: some states require 8 hours, others 16, 24, or 40 hours. The course covers topics like legal authority, use of force, customer service, and emergency procedures.

After you finish the course, you take a written exam administered by your state's licensing board or a testing vendor they approve. You also submit an process with proof of your training certificate, a completed background check form, and sometimes a fee (which ranges from $50 to $300 depending on the state). Once your background check clears and you pass the exam, your security guard license is issued. Most licenses are valid for 2 to 3 years before renewal is required.

Some states let you take the training course and exam through your employer or a private security company, while others require you to complete it independently before you explore for work. Check with your state's licensing board to find out which route applies where you live.

Complete a firearms safety and training course

Once you have your security guard license, the next step is a firearms safety course approved by your state. This is not the same as a general gun safety class—it must be designed specifically for armed security guards and taught by an instructor certified by your state or by the National Rifle Association (NRA). The course typically runs 8 to 16 hours and covers weapon handling, holstering and drawing, legal use of force, de-escalation, and when you are and are not allowed to use your weapon.

You will also learn the specific laws in your state about armed security work. For example, some states restrict where you can carry (no schools, no courthouses), what types of weapons you can use, and what you must do if you discharge your weapon. The instructor will teach you how to handle these situations correctly.

At the end of the course, you receive a certificate of completion. Keep this document—you will need to submit it with your armed endorsement process. Some states also require you to pass a written exam on the course material before you move forward.

Pass a shooting proficiency test

Most states require you to demonstrate that you can shoot accurately and safely before they issue an armed endorsement. This is called a shooting proficiency test or firearms qualification. You typically take this test at a shooting range, either one run by your employer, a private range, or a range designated by your state's licensing board.

The test usually involves firing a set number of rounds (often 50) at a target from different distances—typically 7 yards, 15 yards, and 25 yards. You must hit a minimum percentage of your shots (often 70 to 80%) to pass. The test is timed, so you also have to demonstrate that you can draw and fire quickly and accurately under pressure.

Some states require you to pass this test before you explore for the armed endorsement, while others let you schedule it after your process is submitted. Either way, you will need a passing score certificate to include with your final paperwork. If you fail the first time, most states let you retake the test after a waiting period or additional training.

Submit your armed endorsement process

After you have your security guard license, your firearms training certificate, and your shooting proficiency test results, you are ready to explore for the armed endorsement. You submit an process to your state's licensing board or the agency that oversees security guard licensing in your state. The process asks for your personal information, your security license number, proof of your training, and proof of your shooting test results.

You will also need to submit to a second background check specifically for the armed endorsement. This check is often more thorough than the one for the basic security license and may include a drug screening, a mental health records review, and verification that you have no disqualifying criminal convictions or restraining orders. Some states also require you to be fingerprinted again.

The process fee varies by state but typically ranges from $100 to $400. Processing time is usually 2 to 6 weeks, though it can take longer if your background check raises questions that need to be resolved. Once approved, your armed endorsement is issued, usually as a separate card or notation on your security license.

Meet the age, citizenship, and background requirements

Every state has baseline requirements you must meet to get an armed security license. You must be at least 18 years old (some states require 21). You must be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident—most states require proof of citizenship or a green card. You cannot have certain criminal convictions, including felonies, crimes of violence, or drug offenses. You also cannot have a restraining order or protective order against you, and you cannot have been dishonorably discharged from the military.

Some states also disqualify you if you have a history of mental illness, substance abuse, or domestic violence. A few states require you to have a high school diploma or GED. Most states require you to have a valid state ID or driver's license. If you have questions about whether your background will disqualify you, contact your state's licensing board before you pay for training—they can often tell you whether you are likely to be approved.

Understand state-by-state differences

Armed security licensing is not uniform across the country. Some states have very strict rules; others are more lenient. For example, California requires 40 hours of training for a basic security license and an additional 16 hours for the armed endorsement, plus a live-fire shooting test. Texas requires 4 hours of training for the basic license and 8 hours for armed, plus a shooting qualification. Florida requires 20 hours for the basic license and an additional 8 hours for armed. New York requires 8 hours for basic and 16 hours for armed.

Some states allow you to carry only certain types of weapons (often handguns only, not rifles or shotguns). Some states require annual or biennial renewal of your armed endorsement, while others issue it for the same period as your basic license. A few states require you to work for a licensed security company; others let you work as an independent contractor. Before you start the process, look up your state's specific requirements on your state's licensing board website or call them directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The timeline depends on how quickly you complete the training courses and how fast your state processes applications. Most people finish the basic security license in 2 to 4 weeks, then add another 2 to 8 weeks for the armed endorsement. The entire process typically takes 4 to 12 weeks from start to finish.

Can I get an armed security license if I have a criminal record?

It depends on the type and age of the conviction. Felonies and crimes of violence almost always disqualify you. Misdemeanors may or may not, depending on your state and the specific offense. Contact your state's licensing board with details about your record—they can tell you whether you are disqualified before you spend money on training.

Do I need to renew my armed security license?

Yes. Most states require renewal every 2 to 3 years. Renewal usually involves paying a fee, passing a background check again, and sometimes completing a refresher training course. The exact requirements vary by state, so check with your licensing board about what you need to do before your current license expires.

What if I fail the shooting proficiency test?

Most states let you retake the test after a waiting period, usually 7 to 30 days. You may be required to complete additional firearms training before you try again. Some states charge a retesting fee. Check your state's rules to find out how many attempts you are allowed and what the retesting process is.

Can I work as an armed security guard in another state with my license?

No. Armed security licenses are issued by individual states and are not valid across state lines. If you move or want to work in another state, you will need to get a license in that state. Some states have reciprocity agreements that may speed up the process, but you still have to explore and meet that state's requirements.