Security Guard License Guide 2026
Security Guard licensing in 2026 is regulated state-by-state: verified pre-license education ranges from 6–40 hours, the exam is most commonly administered by state boards, and published first-attempt pass rates are not consistently published. A background check is required in 13 of 51 states with verified data.
Licensed unarmed/armed guard. Many states require a short course + registration.
National overview — Security Guard at a glance
| States with verified data | 51 of 51 |
| Pre-license education | 6–40 hrs |
| Most common exam vendor | varies by state |
| Exam passing score | varies by state |
| National pass-rate reference | ~88% (industry reference) |
| Published state pass rates | not published |
| Exam fee | varies by state |
| Application fee | $30–36 |
| Common renewal cycle | every 2 years |
| Background check | 13 of 51 states |
State-by-state essentials (top verified states)
New York
Full guide ↗- Education
- 8 hrs
- Application fee
- $36
- Renewal
- 2 yrs
California
Full guide ↗- Education
- 40 hrs
- Renewal
- 2 yrs
Florida
Full guide ↗- Education
- 40 hrs
- Renewal
- 2 yrs
Texas
Full guide ↗- Education
- 6 hrs
- Application fee
- $30
Illinois
Full guide ↗- Education
- 20 hrs
How to get a Security Guard license — step by step
- 1Meet the basic requirements
Minimum age is 18 in every state with a published figure. A criminal background check is required in 13 of 51 verified states.
- 2Complete pre-license education
Approved training hours run from 6–40 hours across verified states. Choose a state-approved program; your school reports completion to the licensing authority.
- 3Register and pass the exam
The exam is most often administered by the state board. Schedule through the vendor portal after your education is reported.
- 4Pay fees and submit your application
Expect an exam fee of varies by state and an application fee of $30–36. Submit any required background check results with your application.
- 5Maintain your license
The most common renewal cycle is every 2 years. Track continuing-education deadlines so your license never lapses.
Frequently asked questions
How many hours of education do I need to become a Security Guard?
Verified requirements range from 6–40 hours across states. Check your state's exact figure before enrolling — hours are set by each state board.
How hard is the Security Guard exam?
The national pass-rate reference is ~88%. Most states do not publish first-attempt pass rates — check your state board.
What does a Security Guard license cost?
Exam fee schedules vary by state and application fees run $30–36, not counting education or fingerprinting.
Who administers the Security Guard exam?
The exam vendor varies by state — check your state board.
Can I transfer my Security Guard license to another state?
Reciprocity for Security Guard licenses is decided state-by-state and is not uniformly published. Contact both state boards before moving to confirm whether your license transfers or requires an exam.
Dig deeper into Security Guard licensing
This guide is informational and not legal advice. Requirements change frequently — verify all figures with your state licensing board (data retrieved 2026-08-20).