FAQS
Will my security guard certification cover all cities and towns in Illinois?
Yes, your security guard certification in Illinois is valid statewide, covering all
cities and towns including Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and more!
What qualifications do you need to become a security officer in Illinois?
To become a security officer in Illinois, you must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and pass a criminal background check. You are required to apply for and obtain a Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC) from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). If you plan to be an armed guard, you must complete additional firearms training and obtain a Firearm Control Card (FCC).
What disqualifies you from being a security guard in Illinois?
In Illinois, you can be disqualified from becoming a security guard if you have felony convictions, certain misdemeanor convictions related to violence, theft, or dishonesty, or if you fail the criminal background check required for the Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC). Other disqualifications include drug or alcohol addiction, being dishonorably discharged from the military, or having a history of mental health issues that impair your ability to perform security duties.
How much does it cost to take a Level 2 training course to become a security officer in Illinois?
In Illinois, the cost of a Level 2 unarmed security officer training course typically ranges from $100 to $200, depending on the provider. Security Guard School offers this course for 99.00. This includes the basic training required for security officers. Additional fees include the cost for fingerprinting and the application fee for the Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC), which can add another $55 to $75. The total cost to become a licensed security officer in Illinois generally ranges from $155 to $275.
What are the levels of security guards in Illinois?
In Illinois, security guards are primarily classified as unarmed and armed guards. Unarmed guards must complete basic training and obtain a Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC) to perform security duties without carrying a weapon.
Armed guards require additional firearms training and must obtain both the PERC
and a Firearm Control Card (FCC), allowing them to carry a firearm while on
duty. Both levels must pass background checks and meet state certification
requirements through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional
Regulation (IDFPR).
Are Level 2 non-commissioned security guards allowed to carry a firearm in Illinois?
No, Level 2 non-commissioned security guards in Illinois are not allowed to carry a firearm. Only security guards who have completed additional firearms training and obtained a Firearm Control Card (FCC) are authorized to carry a firearm while on duty.
How do I get my security guard license in Illinois?
To get your security guard license in Illinois, you must be at least 18 years old,
pass a criminal background check, and apply for a Permanent Employee
Registration Card (PERC) through the Illinois Department of Financial and
Professional Regulation (IDFPR). You’ll also need to complete basic security
training. If you plan to carry a firearm, additional firearms training and an
application for a Firearm Control Card (FCC) are required. Once your PERC is
approved, you are licensed to work as a security guard in Illinois.