Demand for security guard services is increasing across the United States on a near-monthly basis. Folks interested in becoming a security guard will be joining the industry at a very exciting time, with no shortage of opportunities for employment and career advancement.
Your journey to becoming a security guard will vary based on the type of guard work you’d like to do and what part of the country you plan to operate in. Having prior military or police experience will accelerate the process—and help you secure higher-paying and supervisory positions. If you’re anxious to get working, some states allow for on-the-job training after passing a weekend course. In general, high school graduates and folks with no prior experience can expect about three months of training and paperwork before earning wages in the field.
What Is the Security Guard License Process?
States mandate different eligibility criteria before you can apply for a security guard license, but these foundational requirements are consistent across most jurisdictions:
- Age and citizenship: You must be at least 18 years old and either a United States citizen or authorized to work in the U.S. Some states require a valid state-issued photo ID or driver’s license as part of the application.
- Background check and fingerprinting: All states conduct criminal history background checks through state and federal databases. You’ll submit fingerprints to be cross-referenced with the FBI and your state’s Department of Justice. This process ensures you have no disqualifying criminal convictions. This stage typically takes two to four weeks, as agencies verify records through multiple databases.
- Training completion: Pre-assignment training is mandatory before you can work. The hours required for unarmed positions vary by state, ranging from 8 to 42, and armed guards typically require additional specialized training.
- Application submission: You must submit your completed training certificates, proof of citizenship, fingerprint receipts, and applicable fees to the relevant authority in your state.
- Processing and approval: The time between submitting your application and receiving your guard card is where timelines between states diverge most. This final stage could take anywhere from a couple of weeks to two months or longer.
Can You Do Your Security Guard Training Online?
State and employer requirements for training delivery methods vary. Most states allow a combination of online and classroom instruction, though certain components — particularly firearms training for armed positions — must be in person with certified instructors.
Typically, online training covers legal foundations, observation and reporting techniques, emergency response protocols, and communication skills. You may be allowed to complete these courses at your own pace, making them accessible for working professionals.
As a nationwide security company with decades of field experience, The Guard Alliance highly recommends that new guards receive in-person instruction from seasoned industry professionals. In-person training focuses on practical skills, hands-on scenarios, and firearms qualifications for armed roles. In-person security guard training happens under the direct supervision of licensed instructors.
Security Guard Licensing by State
If you want to pursue a career as a security guard, it’s important to understand the requirements in your state. For example, here’s how the process works in California, Florida, and New York.
How to Get a Guard Card in California
California requires all security guards to complete specialized training through the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). The BSIS guard card process begins with an eight-hour Power to Arrest training, which you must complete before submitting your application. Following registration, you’ll complete 32 hours of security guard skills training within six months — typically 16 hours within 30 days of employment, and the remaining 16 hours within your first six months.
Annual eight-hour continuing education is mandatory to maintain your registration. Armed guards must pursue additional training and certifications to carry a baton or firearm.
Applications submitted online through BreEZe take four to six weeks to process, though delays can occur due to missing information, incorrect fees or rejected fingerprints. You must submit your application and pass a background check conducted by the FBI and the California Department of Justice, utilizing Live Scan fingerprinting.
Becoming a Security Guard in Florida
Florida has unarmed (Class D) and armed (Class G) licenses. Unarmed guards must complete 40 hours of state-approved security training from a licensed training facility. Armed guards need an additional 28 hours of firearms instruction. Both paths require background checks, fingerprinting, and proof of citizenship, which includes a passport photo.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services processes applications within four to six weeks. Delays can result from inaccurate or missing information, unpaid fees, or rejected fingerprints. Florida licenses are valid for two years, and renewal applications must be submitted at least 60 days prior to expiration. Armed guards must complete four hours of annual firearms requalification training to renew their Class G licenses.
The NYS Security License Process
New York State requires prospective guards to complete an eight-hour preassignment in-person or online training course before applying. Once employed, unarmed guards must complete an additional 16 hours of on-the-job training. Armed guards must complete 47 hours of specialized firearms training.
Guard licenses are valid for two years and require eight hours of annual training, plus eight hours of firearm training for armed guards, for renewal. Renewal applications must be submitted at least 60 days before the license expiration date.
New York is one of the quickest states at processing applications, with most guards receiving their licenses within around 21 days of submission.
Why Trust Us
At The Guard Alliance, we’ve spent over a decade building expertise in security staffing across the U.S. We deploy guards nationwide and are licensed, bonded, and insured above the industry-required limits in all our locations. Our team includes many former law enforcement officers and retired military personnel — professionals who understand the security industry’s rigorous standards.
Over 200 organizations nationwide trust our security services, including major clients like United Airlines and T-Mobile. We have built our reputation by recruiting and developing exceptional security guards, guiding many through the process of obtaining, renewing, and furthering their security qualifications. Our teams receive ongoing training and commit to staying current with the latest security standards and licensing requirements.
Advance Your Security Guard Career With The Guard Alliance
Getting your guard card is an excellent career-building opportunity that can often be achieved in a few months. Once you’re fully licensed in your state, we invite you to advance your security career with The Guard Alliance.
We offer security guard careers for unarmed security guards, armed guards, fire watch guards, and on-site patrol vehicle guards across the U.S. When you join our team, we’ll connect you with opportunities in your city and help you grow in your career over time. You’ll have the chance to work for a wide range of clients and access to higher-paying supervisory roles if you’ve undergone advanced training.
Apply online now to discover security guard career opportunities with The Guard Alliance.
