Becoming a licensed security guard is the first step toward a career in one of today’s most in-demand industries. But if you’ve looked into getting started, you know it can be confusing. Each U.S. state has its own unique set of rules, training requirements, and licensing processes – there’s no federal standard. What qualifies you in one state might not qualify you in another. 

For example, California requires 40 hours of training from a BSIS-certified provider, while Georgia doesn’t license unarmed guards at all, placing the responsibility on the employer instead. In Colorado, requirements vary by city or county, with some areas requiring no formal training at all.

Navigating these differences – especially when moving between states or hiring across state lines—can be overwhelming without a reliable reference. That’s why we created this guide. Below, you’ll find detailed licensing information for key states, including Arizona, California, Florida, Texas, and more.

Whether you’re a new applicant, relocating to another state, or managing a team that works across state lines, this resource will help you understand what’s required – and how Guard Training can help you meet those requirements with the right courses.

Jump to state requirements: 

Arizona | California | Colorado | Delaware | Georgia | Illinois | Minnesota | Tennessee | Texas | Utah

State-by-State Security Guard License Requirements

This section outlines the licensing process for security guards across various U.S. states. Each entry includes details on age, training, licensing authority, and renewal cycles, along with specific context to help you better understand what to expect when applying or hiring in each location.

Arizona

Arizona requires all security guards to be licensed through the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS), which enforces eligibility, training, and background standards. The state takes licensing seriously, with strict disqualification criteria including certain criminal convictions and mental competency findings. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legally authorized to work in the U.S.

Minimum Age:

• Unarmed: 18 
• Armed: 18 

Training Requirements:

• Unarmed: 8 hours 
• Armed: Additional 16 hours firearms training 

License Required: Yes
Renewal Period: Every 2 years
Licensing Authority: Arizona Department of Public Safety

View Arizona Security Guard License Requirements

California

California regulates private security personnel through the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). Guards must pass both state and federal background checks and meet specific training requirements approved by BSIS. The state emphasizes legal knowledge, ethics, and emergency response as part of the curriculum.

Minimum Age:

• Unarmed: 18 
• Armed: 21 

Training Requirements:

• Unarmed: 40 hours BSIS-approved training 
• Armed: Additional 14 hours firearms training 

License Required: Yes
Renewal Period: Every 2 years
Licensing Authority: Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS)

View California Security Guard License Requirements

Colorado

Colorado does not regulate security guards at the state level. Instead, licensing and training are controlled by individual cities and counties, which means requirements vary significantly across the state. For example, Denver has formal training mandates, while rural areas may have none. Contacting the local city clerk is essential.

Minimum Age:

• Varies by jurisdiction (commonly 21 for armed roles) 

Training Requirements:

• Unarmed: Varies by jurisdiction (e.g., 16 hours in Denver) 
• Armed: Varies 

License Required: Yes (local level)
Renewal Period: Typically annually
Licensing Authority: Local city/county authorities

View Colorado Security Guard License Requirements

Delaware

Delaware issues security guard licenses through the State Police rather than a civilian licensing board. Applicants receive either a Yellow Card (unarmed) or Red Card (armed). Passing a written exam and completing approved training is required, and armed guards must complete a separate firearms course.

Minimum Age:

• Unarmed: 18 
• Armed: 21 

Training Requirements:

• Unarmed: 8–12 hours training + written exam 
• Armed: Additional 40-hour firearms course 

License Required: Yes
Renewal Period:

• Unarmed: Every 5 years 
• Armed: Annually 

Licensing Authority: Delaware State Police

View Delaware Security Guard License Requirements

Florida

Florida requires security guards to hold either a Class D license (unarmed) or a Class G license (armed), both issued by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Class D licenses require 40 hours of professional training. Armed guards must complete additional range and classroom training and pass annual requalification.

Minimum Age:

• Unarmed (Class D): 18 
• Armed (Class G): 21 

Training Requirements:

• Unarmed: 40 hours 
• Armed: Additional 28 hours firearms training 

License Required: Yes
Renewal Period:

• Class D: Every 2 years 
• Class G: Annually 

Licensing Authority: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

View Florida Security Guard License Requirements

Georgia

In Georgia, individuals working as unarmed security guards do not require a personal license, but they must be employed by a licensed company. Armed guards, however, must register with the state. All guards must meet minimum training requirements before being assigned to duty.

Minimum Age:

• Unarmed: 18 
• Armed: 21 

Training Requirements:

• Unarmed: 24 hours board-approved training 
• Armed: Additional 15 hours firearms training 

License Required:

• Unarmed: No individual license 
• Armed: Yes 

Renewal Period: Varies
Licensing Authority: Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies

View Georgia Security Guard License Requirements

Illinois

In Illinois, all security guards must apply for a Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC) through the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. This card is mandatory for employment. Armed guards must also complete state-mandated firearms training.

Minimum Age:

• Unarmed: 18 
• Armed: 21 

Training Requirements:

• Unarmed: 20 hours (PERC) 
• Armed: Additional 20 hours firearms training 

License Required: Yes
Renewal Period: Every 3 years
Licensing Authority: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)

View Illinois Security Guard License Requirements

Minnesota

Minnesota does not require unarmed guards to hold personal licenses. Instead, they must be employed by a licensed Protective Agent Services provider. Within 21 days of hire, guards must complete mandatory training, and additional coursework is required annually.

Minimum Age:

• Unarmed: 18 
• Armed: 21 

Training Requirements:

• Unarmed: 12 hours within 21 days of hire 
• Armed: Additional 12 hours firearms training 

License Required:

• Unarmed: No personal license 
• Armed: Yes 

Renewal Period: Ongoing employment; annual refresher training required
Licensing Authority: Minnesota Board of Private Detective and Protective Agent Services

View Minnesota Security Guard License Requirements

 

Security Guard License Requirements Comparison Table

Skills and Duties of Security Guards

Security guards play a vital role in maintaining safety and order in a wide range of environments. From protecting commercial properties to assisting the public during events or emergencies, their presence is both preventive and responsive. The specific responsibilities of a security officer vary based on the post, but all roles demand strong awareness, sound judgment, and professional conduct.

Depending on the assignment, a security guard may be responsible for:

• Monitoring entrances and exits at office buildings, construction sites, or residential complexes 
• Patrolling areas after hours, including parking lots, warehouses, or retail spaces 
• Screening attendees at public events, concerts, or sports venues 
• Acting as a visible deterrent to theft, vandalism, and unauthorized access 

Proper training is essential to prepare guards for these responsibilities. A well-trained security officer should be able to:

• De-escalate tense situations through calm communication and conflict management techniques 
• Accurately document incidents and provide clear, timely reports to supervisors or authorities 
• Respond effectively during emergencies, maintaining composure and following safety protocols 
• Understand use-of-force guidelines, applying only what is necessary and legally permissible 
• Adhere to ethical standards and represent both the employer and client with professionalism 

Guard Training’s state-approved courses are designed to equip officers with the practical skills they need from day one. Training modules include:

• Observation & Documentation
• Handling Difficult People
• Crisis Response & Evacuation
• CPR and Basic First Aid
• Search & Seizure Procedures
• Use of Appropriate Force 

 

While technical training is crucial, the most successful security guards also possess key personal attributes that cannot be taught in a classroom. These include:

• Sound judgment and the ability to assess situations quickly 
• Strong communication skills to interact effectively with the public and law enforcement 
• Physical readiness to perform duties that may involve standing, patrolling, or intervention 
• Situational awareness to recognize and react to unusual behavior or potential threats 
• The ability to remain calm under pressure, even in high-stress or unpredictable environments 
• Quick thinking and adaptability to make fast, appropriate decisions 

Security is not just about presence. It’s about preparedness. With the right training and mindset, guards can provide meaningful protection while building trust with clients, colleagues, and communities.

To dive deeper into the core skills every successful security guard needs—and how to actively develop them—read our guide: 5 Vital Security Guard Skills and How to Develop Them.

Roles and Careers in the Security Industry

Starting as a security guard can open doors to broader roles, including:

• Team or site supervisor 
• Security firm manager 
• Law enforcement 
• Private investigation 
• Event security 
• Homeland Security roles 

Learn more about two of the most common career paths in security—guards and officers—and what sets these roles apart.

The key to advancing? Ongoing training and certification. It boosts your confidence, makes you more valuable to employers, and helps you stay ahead of industry changes.

Why Online Training Works – for Guards and Firms

Online training isn’t just a convenient option – it’s a smarter, more flexible solution for both individuals entering the security industry and companies hiring at scale. Guard Training’s state-approved courses are designed with modern learners in mind, making it easy to meet state licensing requirements while saving time, money, and administrative effort.

 

For Future Security Officers:

Whether you’re balancing another job, caring for a family, or just prefer learning at your own pace, online training helps you get certified without upending your life. There’s no need to attend in-person classes or rearrange your schedule – everything you need is right at your fingertips.

Benefits of online training for individuals:

• Fits around your schedule – train at your pace, on your time. 
• Removes the cost of commuting, child care, or taking time off work – saving you money before you even start your job. 
• Offers a safe space to repeat lessons without pressure – revisit modules as many times as needed. 
• Is available on any device – take your training from your phone, tablet, or laptop whenever it’s convenient.

Want a deeper look at why online training is a game-changer for aspiring guards? We cover the top 8 benefits in this blog post.

 

For Companies Security Firms
Training new hires shouldn’t slow your operations or stretch your budget. With online courses, firms can onboard staff faster, meet state regulations without hassle, and deliver consistent, high-quality training every time—no matter where your employees are based. It’s an efficient, scalable solution that fits seamlessly into your hiring workflow.

Benefits of online training for employers:

• Cuts instructor and classroom space costs – Save significantly by removing the need for live trainers, rented venues, printed materials, or coordinating in-person sessions. Training can begin immediately without waiting for class availability or minimum enrollments. 
• Ensures training consistency and compliance – Every employee receives the same standardized instruction, aligned with current state licensing requirements. This reduces liability risks, supports audit readiness, and ensures you never fall behind due to outdated or inconsistent content. 
• Comes with reporting tools and cloud-based records – Easily track employee progress, download certificates, and manage training records in one central place. This simplifies HR workflows and makes documentation available on demand for licensing bodies or internal reviews. 
• Can be branded and customized to match your firm – Present training as an extension of your company’s brand. Courses can be white-labeled, integrated into your internal systems, and tailored to reflect your procedures or site-specific protocols. 

Want to see how Guard Training helps security firms train smarter, faster, and at scale? Explore the benefits for employers here.

California State-Approved Training Courses

Guard Training offers fully online courses designed specifically for individuals seeking security guard certification in California. Whether you’re applying for your Guard Card or continuing your training, our courses make it easy to meet state requirements – on your schedule and your device.

All Guard Training courses are:

• Compliant with California-approved BSIS curriculum – Built to follow the standards set by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS), ensuring your training meets official requirements. 
• Reviewed regularly with regulatory boards – We stay aligned with California’s evolving licensing policies to keep your certification valid and up to date. 
• SCORM-compliant for all devices – Access your training seamlessly from any phone, tablet, or computer, whenever and wherever it’s convenient. 

Explore our full list of security guard courses to get started.

If you’re part of a company looking to train new guards, visit our Companies & Firms page. 

Still have questions? Contact our team – we’re here to guide you through every step.