Steps to become a Security Guard
New York Requirements
- Submit a completed application and the required fee to the Department of State
- Be 18 years old
- Proof of Fingerprint completion
- Have not been convicted of a serious criminal offense
- Have a current NYS photo driver’s license or non-driver ID card
- Complete training
Security Guard Training Requirements
- 8 Hour Pre-Assignment Training- A general introductory course. You must complete this course and submit a copy of the certificate issued to you with your security guard application.
- 16 Hour On-The-Job Training (OJT) – A course relevant to the duties of guards, requirements of the work site, and the needs of the employer. You must complete this training within 90 days of employment as a security guard.
- 8 Hour Annual In-Service Training – This course must be completed each calendar year you hold a security guard registration. Your registration is issued for two years, therefore, you must complete two 8 Hour Annual In-Service training courses within your registration effective and expiration dates to be eligible for renewal.
- 8 Hour Pre-Assignment Training – A general introductory course. You must complete this course and submit a copy of the certificate issued to you with your security guard application.
- 16 Hour On-The-Job Training (OJT) – A course relevant to the duties of guards, requirements of the work site, and the needs of the employer. You must complete this training within 90 days of employment as a security guard.
- 47 Hour Firearms Training – You must possess a valid NYS Pistol Permit and security guard registration to enroll in this course. Upon successful completion of this course, submit a copy of the certificate with your application for an armed guard registration upgrade.
- 8 Hour Annual In-Service Training – This course must be completed each calendar year you hold an armed security guard registration. Your registration is issued for two years, therefore, you must complete two 8 Hour Annual In-Service training courses within your registration effective and expiration dates to be eligible for renewal; and
- 8 Hour Annual Firearms Training – This course must also be completed each calendar year you hold an armed security guard registration. Your registration is issued for two years, therefore, you must complete two 8 Hour Annual Firearms training courses within your registration effective and expiration dates to be eligible for renewal.
New Jersey Requirements
Unarmed Security Guard Requirements in New Jersey
To be considered as a security guard in New Jersey, first complete an application through the Superintendent of the Department of Law and Public Safety, CLICK HERE.
To serve as a security guard in the State of New Jersey, you must:
- be 18 years of age or older
- be a United States citizen or legal alien with a valid social security number
- provide your previous employers for the past five years
- complete a background check and submit to fingerprinting
- have not been convicted for disqualifying crimes or misdemeanors
Once your application has been approved, you must complete the New Jersey security guard training program. This 24-hour course includes topics such as:
- professional, ethical, and legal contact
- proper detention of suspects, limits on restraint, and use of force
- first aid, CPR, and AED
After you have completed your course, you are ready to become a licensed security guard in New Jersey. The state’s licensing fee is $75.
Armed Security Guard Requirements in New Jersey
Becoming an armed security guard in New Jersey requires additional steps. You first must apply for a weapon permit at your local New Jersey police department – requirements for each city and county may vary. Then, you need to successfully complete a classroom and firearms safety course, which will cover range training and weapon handling.
Licensing Body: The Superintendent of the Division of the State Police in the Department of Law & Public Safety