How to become a security guard in Illinois
Illinois security guards are licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), Division of Professional Regulation. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed security guard in Illinois, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a security guard in Illinois?
- At least 18 years old for an unarmed PERC
- Pass a fingerprint background check
- Disclose criminal history and other personal history questions
Illinois security guard license requirements
| State license | Yes. Unarmed guards working for a licensed private security contractor agency need a Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC) from IDFPR. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), Division of Professional Regulation |
| License name | Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC) |
| Education or training | 20 hours of basic training within 30 days of starting work, plus 8 more hours within 6 months for guards (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1240.505). Training is certified by the employer. |
| License term | PERCs expire May 31 every 3 years.; To renew: 8 hours of refresher training each calendar year starting the year after your first employment anniversary. |
How much does it cost?
| PERC issuance | $55 |
|---|---|
| PERC renewal | $45 |
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 Illinois
- Get fingerprinted by an Illinois-licensed fingerprint vendor and keep the receipt with the TCN.
- Apply for a PERC online through IDFPR (CORE) and pay the $55 fee.
- Get hired by a licensed private security contractor agency.
- Finish the 20-hour basic training within 30 days of starting work.
- Finish the extra 8 hours of training within 6 months.
- Complete 8 hours of refresher training every year and renew the PERC every 3 years.
Apply on the official Illinois site
How do you check a security guard's license in Illinois?
- Search the name or license number on the official Illinois 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.