What You Need to Do to Get Licensed

A security guard license is issued by your state, not the federal government, and the steps differ by state. Most states require you to be at least 18 years old, pass a background check, complete a training course, and pass a written exam. Some states also require fingerprinting and a drug test. You then submit your process to your state's licensing board — usually the Department of Public Safety, Department of Licensing, or a similar agency — along with proof of training and exam passage.

The entire process typically takes four to twelve weeks from start to finish, depending on how quickly you complete training and how fast your state processes applications. Some states let you work under a temporary permit while your permanent license is being reviewed; others require the full license before you start. The cost ranges from under $100 to several hundred dollars, depending on training fees and process costs in your state.

Key Takeaways

  • Every state requires a background check, and most will deny a license if you have felony convictions, certain misdemeanors, or restraining orders.
  • Training course length varies by state — some require as little as 8 hours, while others mandate 40 hours or more before you can sit for the exam.
  • You must pass a written exam administered by your state's licensing board or an approved testing vendor, and the passing score varies by state.
  • Your state's Department of Public Safety or Department of Licensing is the official body that issues the license, and their website lists current requirements and approved training providers.

State Requirements Vary Widely

There is no national security guard license. Each state sets its own rules, and they differ significantly. California requires 8 hours of training before you can work, then 16 additional hours within your first year. New York requires 8 hours of pre-assignment training plus 16 hours within the first year. Texas requires 4 hours of training. Florida requires 40 hours of training before you can be licensed. Some states have no minimum training requirement at all, only a background check and process fee.

The written exam also varies. Some states use a standardized test; others let individual security companies administer their own exams. Some states require you to pass before you start work; others let you work while waiting for exam results. Check your state's official licensing board website to find the exact requirements where you live or plan to work.

Finding an Approved Training Course

Your state's licensing board publishes a list of approved training providers. Search "[your state] security guard training approved" or visit your state's Department of Public Safety or Department of Licensing website directly. Most states allow you to take the course online, in person, or both. Online courses are faster and cheaper but may not be available in every state.

Training covers topics like legal authority, use of force, emergency procedures, customer service, and report writing. Some courses are offered by community colleges, private security companies, or online platforms. Costs range from $50 to $300 depending on length and format. Once you complete the course, you receive a certificate of completion, which you will need to submit with your license process.

Passing the Written Exam

After training, you must pass a written exam. The exam tests your knowledge of state laws, security procedures, and the material covered in your training course. Most states require a score of 70 to 80 percent to pass. You can usually schedule the exam through your state's licensing board or through an approved testing vendor.

Exam fees typically range from $25 to $100. Some states let you retake the exam when ready if you fail; others require you to wait 30 days before trying again. Once you pass, you receive a passing score report, which you submit with your license process. Many people pass on the first attempt if they complete the training course and review the study materials provided.

Submitting Your License process

After passing the exam, you submit an process to your state's licensing board. The process requires your personal information, proof of training completion, proof of exam passage, and sometimes proof of a clean background check. Some states require you to be sponsored by a security company; others let you explore independently. A few states require proof of liability insurance or a surety bond.

Submit your process by mail, online, or in person, depending on what your state accepts. process fees range from $50 to $200. Processing times vary — some states respond within two weeks, others take six to eight weeks. You can check the status of your process on your state's licensing board website or by calling the board directly.

Background Check and Disqualifying Factors

Your state will conduct a background check as part of the licensing process. Most states will deny a license if you have a felony conviction, certain misdemeanors (especially those involving violence, theft, or dishonesty), a restraining order, or an active warrant. Some states also deny licenses to people with DUI convictions or drug-related offenses within a certain number of years.

The specific disqualifying factors depend on your state. If you have a criminal record, contact your state's licensing board before spending money on training to find out whether you are may be able to access. Some states have rehabilitation periods — for example, they may license you if your conviction was more than five years ago and you have had no other offenses since then.

Renewing Your License

Security guard licenses are not permanent. Most states require renewal every one to three years. Renewal typically involves paying a fee (usually $50 to $150), passing a background check again, and sometimes completing continuing education hours. Some states require 4 to 8 hours of refresher training per year; others have no continuing education requirement.

Your state's licensing board will send you a renewal notice before your license expires. You can usually renew online, by mail, or in person. Renewing on time is important — working with an expired license can result in fines or loss of your job. If your license expires, you may have a grace period to renew without reapplying from scratch, but this varies by state.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

It depends on your state. Some states issue a temporary permit that lets you work while your permanent license is under review. Others require the full license before you start. Check with your state's licensing board or your employer to find out what is allowed in your state.

What if I move to a different state?

Your license is only valid in the state that issued it. If you move, you must explore for a new license in your new state. You may not need to retake training if your new state recognizes your old state's training, but you will need to submit a new process and pass that state's exam. Contact your new state's licensing board to find out what transfers and what does not.

How much does it cost to get a security guard license?

Total costs range from $100 to $500 depending on your state. Training courses cost $50 to $300, exam fees are $25 to $100, and process fees are $50 to $200. Some states charge less; others charge more. Check your state's licensing board website for exact fees.

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

Most states do not require a high school diploma or GED, only that you be at least 18 years old and pass a background check. However, some employers may require a diploma as a condition of hiring. Check the job posting or ask your employer before enrolling in training.

Can I get a security guard license with a criminal record?

It depends on the type and age of the conviction. Felonies and certain misdemeanors are usually disqualifying, but some states allow licensing if the conviction is old enough and you have had no other offenses. Contact your state's licensing board with details of your record to find out whether you are may be able to access before you pay for training.