What you need to do to become an armed security guard
An armed security license is a state-issued credential that allows you to carry a firearm while working as a security guard. The process involves background checks, firearms training, and written exams — but the exact steps and costs depend entirely on which state you work in. Some states require you to complete a basic security guard license first, while others let you go straight to armed certification. A few states have no armed security license at all and instead require you to get a concealed carry permit.
The fastest way to find out what your state requires is to contact your state's licensing board directly — usually the Department of Public Safety, Department of Licensing, or a similar agency. They can tell you the current requirements, approved training providers, and how long the process typically takes in your area.
Key Takeaways
- Every state sets its own armed security license requirements, so you must check with your specific state's licensing board before spending money on training.
- Most states require a clean background check, fingerprinting, and proof of firearms training from an approved instructor before you can be licensed.
- Many states require you to hold a basic unarmed security guard license for a set period before you can move to armed certification.
- The entire process from start to license typically takes four to twelve weeks, depending on how quickly your background check clears and training slots fill up.
Check your state's specific requirements first
Before you pay for any training or submit paperwork, contact your state's licensing authority and ask for the armed security guard license requirements. Write down the exact name of the license you need — it may be called "armed security officer," "armed private security," "armed guard," or something else depending on your state. Ask them for a list of approved training providers, the minimum hours of firearms training required, and whether you need an unarmed license first.
Some states publish this information online, but many do not. A phone call to the licensing board is usually faster and more accurate than searching their website. Have a pen ready and ask them to spell out any acronyms or program names they mention.
Complete background check and fingerprinting
Every state requires a background check before issuing an armed security license. You will need to submit fingerprints, usually through a process called Live Scan, which captures your prints digitally and sends them to the FBI and your state police. Some licensing boards do this for you; others require you to go to a private fingerprinting service and pay a fee (typically $15 to $50).
The background check looks for felony convictions, certain misdemeanors, restraining orders, and sometimes credit or drug history — the exact criteria vary by state. If you have a criminal record, contact the licensing board before you spend money on training to ask whether you will be disqualified. Some states have waiting periods after certain convictions; others will not license you at all.
Complete firearms training from an approved instructor
Your state requires you to complete a minimum number of hours of firearms training from an instructor approved by the licensing board. This is not the same as a concealed carry class or a general gun safety course — it must be specifically designed for armed security work and taught by someone on your state's approved list. The training typically covers firearm handling, shooting accuracy, legal use of force, and scenario-based decision-making.
Training usually takes two to five days and costs $300 to $800, depending on your state and the provider. Some employers pay for this training if you are already hired; others require you to complete it before they will consider you. Ask the training provider whether they issue a certificate of completion that you can submit with your license process, and confirm that they are on your state's approved list before you enroll.
Pass the written exam and submit your process
Most states require you to pass a written exam covering firearms laws, use of force rules, and security procedures specific to armed guards. The exam is usually administered by the licensing board or a testing center they contract with. You typically schedule it after you have completed your firearms training and background check.
Once you pass the exam, you submit your process to the licensing board along with proof of training, your background check results, and any fees (which range from $50 to $300 depending on your state). Some states process applications within two weeks; others take six to eight weeks. You can usually check the status of your process online or by calling the licensing board.
Renew your license on schedule
Armed security licenses expire — typically every one to three years depending on your state. You will need to renew before the expiration date or you cannot legally carry a firearm on the job. Renewal usually requires you to retake a shorter firearms training course (sometimes called a refresher), pass another exam, and submit a renewal process with a fee.
Mark your license expiration date on a calendar and contact your state's licensing board about two months before it expires to ask what renewal training is available. Some employers track renewal dates for their employees; others expect you to manage it yourself. If your license lapses, you may have to repeat the full initial process rather than a straightforward renewal.
Understand the difference between armed security and concealed carry
An armed security license allows you to carry a firearm while working for a security company or as a private security contractor. A concealed carry permit allows you to carry a firearm for personal protection. Some states recognize armed security licenses as separate from concealed carry; others treat them as the same thing. A few states do not have armed security licenses at all and instead require armed guards to hold a standard concealed carry permit.
Ask your state's licensing board whether an armed security license covers you for personal carry or only while you are working. If you want to carry off-duty, you may need both licenses. If you already have a concealed carry permit, ask whether it counts toward any of the armed security requirements or whether you still need to complete the full process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an armed security license if I have a criminal record?
It depends on what the conviction is and how long ago it happened. Felonies almost always disqualify you, but some states allow certain misdemeanors if enough time has passed. Contact your state's licensing board with the details of your record before you pay for training — they can tell you whether you are disqualified.
How long does the whole process take?
From the day you start to the day you receive your license typically takes four to twelve weeks. This includes time for your background check to clear (usually two to four weeks), scheduling and completing training (one to two weeks), taking the exam, and the licensing board processing your process (one to four weeks).
Do I need an unarmed security license first?
Many states require you to hold an unarmed security guard license for a certain period — often six months to one year — before you can move to armed certification. Some states skip this requirement. Your state's licensing board will tell you whether this applies to you.
What if I move to a different state?
Your armed security license does not transfer between states. You will need to get a new license in your new state, which means repeating the background check, training, and exam. Some states recognize training from other states and may shorten the process, but you still have to go through your new state's licensing board.
Can my employer pay for the training?
Yes, many employers pay for firearms training and exam fees as part of hiring. Some require you to pay upfront and reimburse you after you pass the exam. Ask potential employers about this before you enroll in training on your own.