How to become a security guard in Tennessee
Tennessee security guards are licensed by the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance, Private Protective Services. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed security guard in Tennessee, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a security guard in Tennessee?
- At least 18 years old
- U.S. citizen or resident alien
- Pass a fingerprint background check through IdentoGO
- Anyone convicted of a felony or certain misdemeanors (such as weapons, theft, violent or drug-sale offenses) must have finished the sentence or probation at least 5 years before applying
Tennessee security guard license requirements
| State license | Yes. Unarmed security guards must hold a state registration from the Department of Commerce and Insurance. An armed guard registration also covers unarmed posts. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance, Private Protective Services |
| License name | Unarmed Security Guard Registration |
| Education or training | 4 hours of basic training (orientation, legal powers and limits, emergency procedures, general duties). Add 4 hours per device to carry a baton, stun gun or chemical spray. Guards at places serving alcohol need de-escalation, restraint, first aid and CPR training within 15 days of assignment. Recent law enforcement or correctional training may count (Tenn. Code Ann. 62-35-118(d)). |
| License term | 2 years; 2 hours of refresher training before each renewal |
How much does it cost?
| Initial unarmed registration application | $95 |
|---|---|
| Renewal | $70 |
| Late fee during 90-day grace period, per month | $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 Tennessee
- Check that you meet the age, citizenship and criminal history rules
- Apply online for the Initial Unarmed Guard Registration at core.tn.gov and pay the fee
- Complete the IdentoGO fingerprint background check
- Complete the 4-hour basic training (and any weapon training)
- Carry a copy of your complete, paid application while it is processing if you start work
- Renew every 2 years after 2 hours of refresher training
Apply on the official Tennessee site
How do you check a security guard's license in Tennessee?
- Search the name or license number on the official Tennessee 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.