How to become a security guard in New York
New York security guards are licensed by the New York State Department of State, Division of Licensing Services (training set by the Division of Criminal Justice Services). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed security guard in New York, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a security guard in New York?
- At least 18 years old
- Not convicted of a serious criminal offense
- Current NYS photo driver's license or non-driver ID, or a Request for Photo Image
- Fingerprinting through IdentoGo by IDEMIA; receipt valid 5 months
- Completed 8-hour pre-assignment training certificate
New York security guard license requirements
| State license | Yes. Security guards must be registered with the NYS Department of State and complete DCJS-approved training (GBL Article 7-A). |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | New York State Department of State, Division of Licensing Services (training set by the Division of Criminal Justice Services) |
| License name | Security Guard Registration |
| Education or training | 8-hour pre-assignment course (once, before applying); 16-hour on-the-job training within 90 days of starting work; 8-hour annual in-service course every calendar year. Armed guards also need a 47-hour firearms course and an 8-hour annual firearms course. All at DCJS-approved schools. |
| License term | 2 years; two 8-hour annual in-service courses (16 hours) must be completed within the registration period to renew |
How much does it cost?
| Initial application (payable to Department of State) | $36 |
|---|---|
| Renewal | $25 |
| Fingerprint fee (payable to IDEMIA) | $102.50 |
| Duplicate license/registration | $25 |
| Change of status | $25 |
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 New York
- Take the 8-hour pre-assignment course at a DCJS-approved school
- Get fingerprinted with IdentoGo (service code 1545R1)
- Mail form DOS-1206 with the training certificate, fingerprint receipt and $36 fee
- Start work and finish 16-hour on-the-job training within 90 days
- Take an 8-hour in-service course each calendar year
- Renew every 2 years with the renewal form
Apply on the official New York site
How do you check a security guard's license in New York?
- Search the name or license number on the official New York 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.