What Background Checks Are Required for Security Guard Training & Licensing?

Key Takeaways

• Security guard training and licensing universally require thorough criminal background checks and fingerprinting.
• Disqualifying offenses vary by state but typically include felonies and serious misdemeanors involving violence or dishonesty.
• Background check requirements can differ significantly between states and for armed vs. unarmed positions.
• Understanding these requirements before enrolling in training is crucial for a smooth licensing process.
• Processing times for background checks and license approval vary, so plan accordingly.

Why Background Checks Are Essential for Security Guards

Before you can begin a career protecting people and property, you must pass a comprehensive background check. This isn't just a procedural formality; it's the foundation of trust in the security industry. Security guards are entrusted with significant responsibilities, from controlling access to sensitive areas to responding to emergencies.

State licensing bodies and employers mandate these checks to ensure that individuals in these roles have a proven history of integrity, reliability, and sound judgment. A thorough screening process protects the public, reduces liability for employers, and upholds the professional standards of the security sector. It verifies that candidates do not have a criminal history that could compromise their ability to perform their duties ethically and effectively.

Types of Background Checks for Security Guard Eligibility

The security guard hiring process involves several layers of screening to build a complete profile of a candidate. While the exact requirements can vary, most applicants can expect to undergo a few standard types of checks.

Criminal History Checks: What Law Enforcement Agencies Look For

The cornerstone of security guard eligibility is the criminal history check. This is a deep dive into local, state, and national databases, including the FBI's records. Agencies are looking for any convictions and, in some cases, arrest records that point to disqualifying offenses. This includes felonies and serious misdemeanors, particularly those related to violence, theft, fraud, or drug offenses. The goal is to identify patterns of behavior that are incompatible with a position of trust.

Fingerprinting and Identity Verification

To ensure the accuracy of a criminal history check, fingerprinting is almost always required. Applicants typically use a service like Live Scan to submit their fingerprints electronically to state and federal agencies, such as the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the FBI. This process provides a definitive biometric link, preventing identity fraud and ensuring the background check is tied to the correct individual.

Other Potential Checks (e.g., Driving Record, Drug Screening)

While state licensing focuses on criminal history, many security companies have additional requirements. It is common for employers to conduct drug screenings to ensure a drug-free workplace. If a position involves operating a vehicle, a driving record check (MVR) will also be performed to screen for DUIs or other serious traffic violations. These additional checks help employers assess a candidate's overall reliability and fitness for duty.

Understanding Disqualifying Offenses for Security Guard Licenses

Not all past mistakes will prevent you from becoming a security guard, but certain offenses are almost universally considered disqualifying. Understanding these barriers is a critical first step in determining your eligibility.

Common Felonies and Serious Misdemeanors

State laws typically list specific crimes that automatically disqualify an applicant. These often include:

• Any felony conviction.
• Violent crimes include assault, battery, and domestic violence.
• Property crimes such as burglary, theft, and arson.
• Crimes involving dishonesty, including fraud, forgery, and perjury.
• Serious drug-related offenses, especially trafficking or manufacturing.

The exact list of security guard disqualifying offenses varies by state, so it is essential to check the regulations where you plan to work.

Timeframes and Expungement Considerations

The recency of a conviction often matters. Some states may allow for licensing after a certain number of years have passed since the completion of a sentence. Additionally, if a conviction has been legally expunged or sealed, it may not appear on certain background checks or be considered a disqualifier. However, this is a complex legal area, and you should always consult with an attorney for advice specific to your situation. Never assume an expunged record is completely invisible to law enforcement or licensing agencies.

Training vs. Licensing: Different Stages of Background Screening

It's important to understand that you may encounter background checks at multiple points in your journey. Some training providers may conduct a preliminary check to ensure you meet basic eligibility before you invest time and money into a course. However, the most thorough and official background check is conducted as part of your state license application. This official check is what ultimately determines if you are legally permitted to work as a security guard in that state.

Unarmed vs. Armed Security Guard Background Requirements

The requirements for an armed security guard are significantly stricter than for an unarmed guard. In addition to the standard criminal background check for security guards, applicants for an armed position must also pass checks that confirm their eligibility to own and carry a firearm. This often involves a more intensive review of your history, including any record of domestic violence, mental health adjudications, or other factors that would prohibit you from possessing a weapon under state and federal law.

State-Specific Security Guard Background Check Laws

One of the most critical things to remember is that there is no single national standard for security guard licensing. Each state sets its own rules, and the security guard background check requirements can differ dramatically. Before you start, you must research the laws in your specific location.

Arizona Security Guard Background Checks

In Arizona, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) manages licensing. Applicants must submit fingerprints for an FBI background check and have no convictions for disqualifying offenses. To learn more, explore our Arizona Security Guard Training courses.

California Security Guard Background Checks (Guard Card)

California's Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) requires all applicants to undergo a criminal history check through the DOJ and FBI via a Live Scan fingerprinting process. Our California Security Guard Training (Guard Card) programs are designed to meet all state requirements.

Colorado Security Guard Background Checks

Colorado has unique rules, especially in cities like Denver, which have their own licensing requirements. State-level checks are standard, and our Colorado Security Guard Training can help you navigate the process, including the specific Denver New Security Guard Training Course.

Delaware Security Guard Background Checks

Delaware requires state and federal criminal background checks. The Delaware State Police Professional Licensing Section oversees the process, ensuring all guards meet the state's standards. We offer comprehensive Delaware Security Guard Training to prepare you.

Georgia Security Guard Background Checks

Managed by the Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies, applicants must undergo a fingerprint-based background check. Our Georgia Security Guard Training covers all necessary steps for licensing.

Illinois Security Guard Background Checks (PERC Card)

To get a Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC) in Illinois, applicants must pass a fingerprint-based background check conducted by the Illinois State Police and the FBI. Our Illinois Security Guard Training is tailored to the PERC card process.

Minnesota Security Guard Background Checks

The Minnesota Board of Private Detective and Protective Agent Services requires a thorough criminal background check as part of the licensing process. We provide compliant Minnesota Security Guard Training to get you started.

Tennessee Security Guard Background Checks

In Tennessee, applicants must submit fingerprints for a background check processed by the TBI and FBI. You can find state-approved courses in our Tennessee Security License Training Course collection.

Texas Security Guard Background Checks (Level II)

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) requires a fingerprint-based FBI background check for all security licenses, including the entry-level non-commissioned license. Our Texas Level II Non-Commissioned License Training Course is the perfect starting point.

Utah Security Guard Background Checks

The Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) mandates a criminal background check through the Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification and the FBI. Check out our Utah Security Guard Training for more details.

How Long Do Security Guard Background Checks Take?

Patience is key during the licensing process. The time it takes to complete a security guard background check can range from a few days to several weeks, or even longer. The timeline depends on the state agencies involved, the volume of applications they are processing, and whether any potential issues arise from your record that require further review. It is wise to start the process well in advance of when you hope to begin working.

What If You Have a Criminal Record? Steps and Considerations

Having a criminal record doesn't always mean your security career is over before it begins. The first and most important step is honesty. Never attempt to hide or lie about your history on an application, as this will lead to an automatic denial.

Research your state's specific disqualifying offenses and review your own record to see if you are eligible. If your offense is not an automatic disqualifier, you may have the opportunity to provide a statement explaining the circumstances. Some states have appeal processes or boards that will review cases individually. While we cannot provide legal advice, we can say that demonstrating personal growth and responsibility since the time of the offense can sometimes make a difference.

Ready to Begin Your Security Career?

Understanding background check requirements is your first step. Now, take the next one: explore all our security guard training courses designed for your success.

FAQs

Can a felon ever become a security guard?

Answer: It depends heavily on the state, the nature of the felony, and how much time has passed since conviction. Some states have specific disqualifying offenses or waiting periods. It's crucial to check your state's regulations and possibly consult with legal counsel.

How long is a security guard background check valid?

Answer: The validity of a background check varies by state and the purpose of the check. For licensing, you may need a new background check if you let your license lapse or move to a different state.

Is a separate background check needed for armed security guard training?

Answer: Yes, armed security guard positions almost always require more stringent background checks due to the inclusion of firearm privileges. These typically include additional federal checks and specific state firearm eligibility requirements.

What if I have an arrest record but no conviction?

Answer: An arrest record alone may not automatically disqualify you, but it will be part of the background check. States primarily focus on convictions, especially for disqualifying offenses. Honesty and clear explanations are always recommended.