How to become a security guard in Arizona
Arizona security guards are licensed by the Arizona Department of Public Safety, Security Guard and Private Investigator Licensing Unit. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed security guard in Arizona, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a security guard in Arizona?
- At least 18
- U.S. citizen or legal resident authorized to work
- No felony conviction or pending felony indictment
- No listed violent, weapon, fraud, theft or similar misdemeanors in the last 5 years
- Not a registered sex offender
- Fingerprint-based state and federal background check
- Must be employed by a licensed security agency
Arizona security guard license requirements
| State license | Yes. Arizona requires security guards to register with the Department of Public Safety. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Arizona Department of Public Safety, Security Guard and Private Investigator Licensing Unit |
| License name | Unarmed Security Guard Registration Certificate |
| Education or training | 8-hour pre-assignment class taught by a registered security guard training instructor (armed guards: 16-hour firearms class plus 8-hour annual refresher). |
| License term | 4 years. |
How much does it cost?
| Unarmed registration (new or renewal) | $50 |
|---|---|
| Fingerprint processing fee | $22 |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become a security guard in Arizona
- Get a job offer from a licensed security agency
- Complete the 8-hour pre-assignment training
- Get fingerprinted and seal the card with the fingerprint affidavit
- Have the employer complete Part A of the unarmed application
- Submit the application with the $50 fee and $22 fingerprint fee
- Check status on the DPS Public Services Portal
Apply on the official Arizona site
How do you check a security guard's license in Arizona?
- Search the name or license number on the official Arizona security guard license lookup.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.