How to become a security guard in Florida
Florida security guards are licensed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), Division of Licensing. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed security guard in Florida, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a security guard in Florida?
- At least 18 years old
- U.S. citizen, legal resident alien or work-authorized by USCIS
- No disqualifying criminal, mental health or substance abuse history
Florida security guard license requirements
| State license | Yes. Florida requires a Class D license for anyone who works as a security officer. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), Division of Licensing |
| License name | Class D Security Officer License |
| Education or training | At least 40 hours of professional training from an FDACS-licensed Class DS school; it may be in person or live online (s. 493.6303, F.S.). |
| License term | 2 years (biennial renewal, s. 493.6113, F.S.). |
How much does it cost?
| Initial license fee | $45 |
|---|---|
| Fingerprint processing | $42 |
| Fingerprint retention | $10.75 |
| Total new application | $97.75 |
| Renewal license fee | $45 |
| Renewal fingerprint retention | $16.75 |
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 Florida
- Complete 40 hours of training at a licensed Class DS school
- Print your training certificate from the FDACS lookup
- Get fingerprinted
- Apply online, at a regional office, or by mail with form 16007
- Pay $97.75
- Renew every 2 years
Apply on the official Florida site
How do you check a security guard's license in Florida?
- Search the name or license number on the official Florida 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.