How to become a security guard in West Virginia
West Virginia security guards are licensed by the West Virginia Secretary of State, Licensing Division. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed security guard in West Virginia, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a security guard in West Virginia?
- At least 18 years old
- U.S. citizen or legal resident
- No felony conviction
- No convictions for listed offenses such as illegal weapon carrying, burglar's tools, receiving stolen property or drug offenses
- No prior security guard or PI license revoked or application denied in any state
- Five character references who have known you five years
West Virginia security guard license requirements
| State license | Yes. Licensed statewide by the Secretary of State. Owners need an individual or firm license; guards working under a licensed firm must meet the same eligibility rules and the firm keeps their photo and fingerprints on file. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | West Virginia Secretary of State, Licensing Division |
| License name | Individual Security Guard License |
| Education or training | At least one year of verified full-time security guard employment, or one year of substantially equivalent training or experience (W. Va. Code 30-18-5). The Secretary of State accepts, for example, a transcript with at least 30 semester hours in investigative or law enforcement studies. |
| Experience | One year of verified full-time security guard work (at least 32 hours per week for 50 weeks if experience alone), or equivalent training. Not required for employees working under a licensed firm (W. Va. Code 30-18-7). |
| License term | 2 years |
How much does it cost?
| Individual license, West Virginia resident (includes $50 non-refundable processing fee) | $150 |
|---|---|
| Individual license, non-resident (includes $50 non-refundable processing fee) | $550 |
| Surety bond (or proof of liability insurance instead) | $5,000 bond |
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 West Virginia
- Check the basic eligibility requirements and exemptions
- Get the application packet and fingerprint instructions from the Secretary of State
- Get one passport-size color photo taken within the last year
- Get a $5,000 surety bond or proof of liability insurance
- Collect five completed character references
- Gather proof of training or experience
- Mail the application, documents and fee to the Licensing Division in Charleston
- After approval, register your business with the State Tax Department
Apply on the official West Virginia site
How do you check a security guard's license in West Virginia?
- Search the name or license number on the official West Virginia 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.