How to become a security guard in North Dakota
North Dakota security guards are licensed by the North Dakota Private Investigation and Security Board. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed security guard in North Dakota, 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 North Dakota law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a security guard in North Dakota?
- At least 18 years old
- High school diploma or equivalent
- No disqualifying felony or listed misdemeanor (Board may waive)
- Registered by a licensed security agency and supervised by a licensee
- State and FBI criminal history check with fingerprint cards
North Dakota security guard license requirements
| State license | Yes. Security officers employed by a licensed security agency must be registered with the Private Investigation and Security Board (NDCC 43-30). |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | North Dakota Private Investigation and Security Board |
| License name | Apprentice Security Officer Registration |
| Education or training | Apprentice: 12 hours of classroom instruction or 12 hours of supervised field training within 30 days of registration. Security officer rank: 1,000 hours as apprentice plus 32 more classroom hours. Commissioned: 3,000 more hours plus 80 classroom hours. |
| License term | 1 year; all registrations expire September 30 |
How much does it cost?
| Security officer registration (Board application forms page) | $45.00 |
|---|---|
| Criminal history check, ND and FBI (form SFN 60688, 08-2026) | $43.00 |
| Forms packet | $20 |
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 North Dakota
- Get hired by a licensed security agency
- Agency submits application pages 1, 2, 2a and 3 with two fingerprint cards and fees
- Complete 12 hours of classroom or field training within 30 days
- Work under direct onsite supervision until training is done
- Renew by September 30 each year
Apply on the official North Dakota site
How do you check a security guard's license in North Dakota?
- Search the name or license number on the official North Dakota 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.