How to become a security guard in Delaware
Delaware security guards are licensed by the Delaware State Police, Professional Licensing Section (Board of Examiners of Private Investigators and Private Security Agencies). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed security guard in Delaware, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a security guard in Delaware?
- At least 18 years old
- Fingerprint background check through IdentoGO
- No disqualifying criminal history
- May work only for a licensed Delaware security agency
Delaware security guard license requirements
| State license | Yes. Delaware requires a state security guard license (Yellow Card) for unarmed guards. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Delaware State Police, Professional Licensing Section (Board of Examiners of Private Investigators and Private Security Agencies) |
| License name | Security Guard License (Unarmed / Yellow Card) |
| Education or training | A Board-approved security guard training program (rules list topics such as legal limits, use of force, ethics and emergency services). The DSP page does not state an hour count. |
| Exam | Pass the security guard test with at least 75%, given only at Delaware Tech campuses, within one year of training. |
| License term | 5 years; expires on your birthdate; renewal requires repeating the approved training and passing the test again. |
How much does it cost?
| License application or renewal (paid via IdentoGO) | $105.00 |
|---|---|
| Replacement ID card (lost/stolen) | $10.00 |
| Name or agency change card | $5.00 |
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 Delaware
- Complete training with a Board-approved provider
- Pass the security guard test (75%) at a Delaware Tech campus
- Book IdentoGO fingerprinting with service code 27RVNN and pay the fee
- Email the Security Guard Application and exam certificate to [email protected]
- Receive your Yellow Card by mail or pickup at the Dover SBI office
- Retrain and retest before renewing every 5 years
Apply on the official Delaware site
How do you check a security guard's license in Delaware?
- Ask for the license number and confirm it with the Delaware State Police, Professional Licensing Section (Board of Examiners of Private Investigators and Private Security Agencies).
- 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.