How to become a security guard in Georgia
Georgia security guards are licensed by the Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies (Secretary of State). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed security guard in Georgia, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Part of the state's website could not be reached when we checked, so some details come from Georgia law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a security guard in Georgia?
- Employed by a Board-licensed security company
- Fingerprint-based criminal background check
- A felony may be grounds for denial
Georgia security guard license requirements
| State license | Yes. Georgia requires security employees of licensed agencies to be registered with the state board. The Secretary of State licensing site (sos.ga.gov) blocked access during this check, so fees and age were not confirmed. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies (Secretary of State) |
| License name | Security Employee Registration |
| Education or training | At least 24 hours of classroom instruction before providing security services (Rule 509-3-.02, effective January 1, 2022). |
| License term | Registrations expire August 31 of each odd-numbered year (Rule 509-2-.01); 8 hours before each renewal (2 Homeland Security, 2 firearms-related, 4 industry); exempt at first renewal (Rule 509-3-.12). |
Steps to become a security guard in Georgia
- Get hired by a licensed Georgia security company
- Complete 24 hours of approved classroom training
- Your employer submits your registration with fingerprints and fees
- Complete 8 hours of continuing education before each renewal
- Renew by August 31 of odd-numbered years
How do you check a security guard's license in Georgia?
- Ask for the license number and confirm it with the Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies (Secretary of State).
- 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.