How to become a security guard in Hawaii
Hawaii security guards are licensed by the Board of Private Detectives and Guards, DCCA Professional and Vocational Licensing. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed security guard in Hawaii, 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 Hawaii law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a security guard in Hawaii?
- At least 18 years old
- High school diploma or equivalent
- No disqualifying criminal conviction
- No psychiatric disorder detrimental to guard work
- FBI and Hawaii fingerprint check through Fieldprint
Hawaii security guard license requirements
| State license | Yes. Hawaii requires everyone acting in a guard capacity to register with the state board (HRS 463-10.5). |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Board of Private Detectives and Guards, DCCA Professional and Vocational Licensing |
| License name | Guard Employee Registration |
| Education or training | 8 hours of classroom instruction from a Board-approved instructor before the first day of service, plus a written test and 4 hours of supervised on-the-job training. |
| Exam | Pass a written test as part of the required training. |
| License term | 3 years; all registrations renew by June 30 (next in 2027); a 4-hour Board-approved course each 3-year renewal period; new registrants within a year of renewal are exempt once. |
How much does it cost?
| Guard employee application | $10 |
|---|---|
| Guard employee registration (varies by year of the 3-year cycle) | $151, $116 or $81 |
| Renewal (active) | $105 |
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 Hawaii
- Complete the 8-hour Board-approved course and written test
- Get fingerprinted at Fieldprint
- Submit the guard employee application and fees
- Complete 4 hours of supervised on-the-job training
- Renew online every 3 years after a 4-hour CE course
Apply on the official Hawaii site
How do you check a security guard's license in Hawaii?
- Search the name or license number on the official Hawaii 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.