What happens when your security license lapses or is suspended

A security license becomes inactive when you do not renew it before the expiration date, or when a licensing authority suspends or revokes it for a violation. Once inactive, you cannot legally work in security roles that require a current license — armed or unarmed guard positions, security supervisor roles, and many private investigator functions all depend on an active license.

The path to reinstatement depends on why the license went inactive. A lapsed license (one you straightforward did not renew) is usually straightforward to restore. A suspended license (one pulled by the state for a specific reason) requires you to address that reason first. A revoked license is the most difficult — revocation is permanent in most states, though some allow reapplication after a waiting period.

Most states handle security licensing through their Department of Public Safety, Department of Consumer Affairs, or a dedicated licensing board. The specific agency and the exact reinstatement process vary by state, so you will need to contact your state's licensing body to learn what documents and fees explore to your situation.

Key Takeaways

  • A lapsed license can usually be reinstated by submitting a renewal process and paying the renewal fee, often without additional requirements beyond the original licensing conditions.
  • A suspended license requires you to resolve the underlying violation — such as completing training, paying fines, or addressing a criminal charge — before the state will consider reinstatement.
  • You must contact your state's licensing authority directly to learn whether your license was suspended, revoked, or straightforward lapsed, because each status has a different reinstatement path.
  • Reinstatement timelines range from a few days for a straightforward renewal to several weeks or months if the state must investigate or verify that you have resolved the suspension cause.

How to find out your license status and the reason for inactivity

Before you can reinstate your license, you need to know exactly why it is inactive. Contact your state's security licensing authority — usually the Department of Public Safety, Department of Consumer Affairs, or a dedicated Private Security Board — and provide your full name, date of birth, and license number if you have it. They will tell you whether the license lapsed, was suspended, or was revoked.

If the license lapsed, the authority will confirm the expiration date and tell you the renewal fee and any continuing education requirements. If it was suspended, they will explain the violation that triggered the suspension and what you must do to have it lifted. If it was revoked, they will tell you whether reapplication is possible and, if so, after how long.

Many states now allow you to check license status online through their licensing board website. Search "[your state] security license lookup" or "[your state] private security licensing board" to find the portal. If you cannot find an online tool, call the licensing authority directly — they are required to provide this information.

Reinstating a lapsed security license

A lapsed license is one that expired because you did not renew it before the important date. Reinstatement is usually the same as renewal: you submit a renewal process, pay the renewal fee, and confirm that you still meet the basic requirements (no disqualifying criminal convictions, no active suspension or revocation in another state, and sometimes proof of current employment or sponsorship by a licensed security company).

Some states allow a grace period — typically 30 to 90 days after expiration — during which you can renew without penalty. After the grace period, you may be required to retake the licensing exam, complete additional training hours, or pay a late renewal fee. A few states treat licenses that have been expired for more than one or two years as revoked rather than lapsed, so the sooner you renew, the simpler the process.

Submit your renewal process to the same agency that issued the original license. Include the renewal fee (amounts vary by state, typically $100 to $500), proof of current employment or a letter from a security company stating they will hire you once your license is active, and any continuing education certificates required by your state. Processing usually takes one to three weeks.

Reinstating a suspended security license

A suspended license means the state pulled your license for a specific reason — a complaint, a violation of security regulations, a criminal charge, or failure to meet continuing education requirements. You cannot straightforward renew; you must first resolve the underlying issue.

Contact the licensing authority and ask for a written explanation of the suspension. Common reasons include: failure to complete required training hours, a complaint from a client or employer, a criminal arrest or conviction after licensing, working outside the scope of your license, or violations of the security industry code of conduct. The authority will tell you what steps you must take to lift the suspension.

Typical reinstatement conditions include completing a specific number of training hours, paying a fine, providing proof that a criminal charge was dismissed or resolved, or submitting a letter from your employer confirming that you have corrected the violation. Once you have completed these conditions, submit proof to the licensing authority. They will review your submission and either reinstate your license or request additional documentation. This process typically takes four to eight weeks.

Reinstating a revoked security license

Revocation is permanent removal of your license. It usually results from serious violations: a felony conviction, repeated violations of security regulations, or fraud. Most states do not allow when ready reinstatement after revocation.

Some states allow you to reapply after a waiting period — often three to five years — if you can show that you have resolved the underlying issue (such as completing a sentence, maintaining a clean record, or completing remedial training). Other states make revocation final with no path to reinstatement. Contact your state's licensing authority to learn whether reapplication is possible in your state and what conditions must be met.

If reapplication is allowed, you will typically need to submit a new process, retake the licensing exam, complete all required training from scratch, and provide documentation showing that you have addressed the reason for the original revocation. This is treated as a new process, not a reinstatement, and the authority may deny it even if you meet the technical requirements.

Documents and fees you will likely need

Reinstatement requirements vary by state, but most require some or all of the following:

  • A completed reinstatement or renewal process form (available from your state's licensing authority website or by phone)
  • Proof of identity (driver's license or state ID)
  • Proof of employment or a letter from a licensed security company stating they will hire you once your license is active
  • Proof of any required continuing education or training (certificate of completion)
  • The reinstatement or renewal fee (typically $100 to $500, depending on your state and license type)
  • If the license was suspended: documentation showing you have resolved the violation (proof of fine payment, training completion, or criminal case dismissal)
  • A background check authorization form (the state will run a new background check as part of reinstatement)

Some states require fingerprinting for reinstatement. If so, you can usually have fingerprints taken at your local police department, a licensed fingerprinting service, or the licensing authority's office. The cost is typically $10 to $50 and is separate from the reinstatement fee.

Timeline for reinstatement and what to expect

Processing time depends on the reason for inactivity and your state's workload. A straightforward renewal of a lapsed license usually takes one to three weeks. A reinstatement after suspension takes four to eight weeks because the authority must verify that you have resolved the violation. A revocation followed by reapplication can take two to three months or longer, especially if the authority must conduct a new background investigation.

After you submit your process, the licensing authority will conduct a background check and verify your employment. If everything is in order, they will issue a new license or send you a notice of approval. Some states mail a physical license card; others issue a digital license that you can print or display on your phone. Confirm with your state what form your reinstated license will take and whether you can work while your process is pending.

Many states do not allow you to work in a licensed security role while your reinstatement is pending. If you need to work when ready, ask your employer whether they can place you in an unlicensed role (such as administrative work) until your license is active. Some employers will hold a position for you; others cannot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work as a security guard while my reinstatement process is pending?

In most states, no — you cannot legally work in a licensed security role without an active license. Some states allow provisional or temporary work permits while your process is being reviewed, but this is rare. Contact your state's licensing authority to ask whether a temporary permit is available. If not, discuss with your employer whether you can work in an unlicensed position until your license is reinstated.

What if my reinstatement process is denied?

The licensing authority will send you a written notice explaining the reason for denial. Common reasons include a new criminal conviction discovered during the background check, failure to resolve the original suspension cause, or false information on the process. You usually have the right to request a hearing or appeal. The notice will explain how to file an appeal and the important date for doing so.

Do I have to retake the security licensing exam to reinstate my license?

Not usually, unless your state requires it. Most states allow reinstatement of a lapsed license without retesting if you renew within a grace period (typically 30 to 90 days after expiration). If your license has been expired for longer, or if it was suspended or revoked, your state may require you to retake the exam. Ask your licensing authority whether retesting is required for your situation.

How much does reinstatement cost?

Reinstatement fees vary by state and license type. Most states charge $100 to $500 for reinstatement or renewal. Some states charge an additional late fee if the license has been expired for more than a certain period. Fingerprinting, if required, costs $10 to $50. Contact your state's licensing authority for the exact fee that applies to you.

Can I reinstate my license if I have a criminal conviction after I was originally licensed?

It depends on the conviction and your state's rules. Most states disqualify people with felony convictions from holding a security license. Some states also disqualify people with certain misdemeanors, such as assault or theft. If you have been convicted of a crime after your license was issued, contact your state's licensing authority when ready to learn whether you are still may be able to access. If you are not, your license may be revoked or suspended rather than straightforward lapsed.