fbpx
This is a BPS Security blog header image for a blog titled, “Is it Easy to Become a Security Guard”.

Is it Easy to Become a Security Guard

If you were in need of surgery, would you want a surgeon that was in the top of their class and hours of practice or an average surgeon with little practice? Here is another question, if you had to pick an individual to protect your livelihood, would you want them to be capable and well trained? Okay, well then why is it possible for security guards to get certification with 45 hours (or less) of training? To put this into perspective, these guards will be able to carry firearms, and decide when it is okay and not okay to shoot an individual. Frankly, here at BPS Security, we think the amount of training that states require an individual to become a security guard is laughable at best. So, YES, it is easy to become a security guard… and this is a major problem!

The reality is, the need for security guards is rising at an alarming rate and yet, the expectations and training curriculums (or lack thereof) are not improving. Additionally, as the demand increases, many security firms are finding it difficult to fill the positions with highly skilled individuals. Therefore, their standards are often the bare minimum… thus leaving their guards and their clients exposed to major threats.

Note that some security firms (like BPS Security) will have higher standards! But the pressure for companies to grow AND offer competitive pricing is becoming a serious issue!

State Requirements

If you want to become a security guard, you must first meet the state/county requirements in the area that you plan to work. Every location is different! But, as we mention above, even the “strict” requirements are laughable at best.

The following information is taken directly from SecurityGuard-License.org – a State by State Security Guard License Guide. These are the requirements to become an unarmed and armed (commissioned) security guard within the state of Texas.

Eligibility Requirements for Security Guards
All security professionals must be at least 18 years old. They must meet general fitness requirements. They cannot have been discharged from the military dishonorably or under any other conditions that would be viewed as prohibitive. They cannot be indicted or charged with felonies or Class A or B misdemeanors. They may not be registered as sex offenders in any state. They may not be mentally incompetent in the view of a court.


The individual will need to complete an approved training program at Level II. Required topics include 1) state law and Board rule and 2) note taking and report writing. The program will culminate in a test (https://www.dps.texas.gov/rsd/psb/).


A security guard who has a current valid ID is eligible to transfer eligibility and work for a new employer. However, the employer will need to file an update (https://www.dps.texas.gov/rsd/psb/).

Requirements for Commissioned Security Guards
In order to be authorized to work as an armed guard, an individual must meet eligibility, training, and skill requirements. He or she must be, in the view of the licensing agency, capable of exercising good judgment. The licensing agency may determine that a person is incapable because of a serious psychiatric disorder or condition even if the condition is currently in remission or being managed by medication. However, an individual with a past diagnosis may be licensed if a psychiatrist provides a statement indicating that the person is indeed capable of good judgment. According to state statute, medical records may be required (http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/OC/htm/OC.1702.htm).

A person may also be disqualified because of a chemically dependence, a restraining order, or a prohibition from possessing firearms. A person who has been convicted of two alcohol- or substance-related misdemeanors at the Class B level or greater is, in the view of the licensing agency, chemically dependent. Eligibility is discussed in-depth in Section 1702.163 of state statute.

Individuals who have current or recent experience as peace officers may be eligible for training exemptions; requirements are described in Rule 35.131.
The commission may be transferred under certain conditions. The Board must be notified of new employment.

Training must be completed through an approved school or instructor. The prospective commissioned guard will need to score satisfactorily on a test. An individual who completes training and demonstrates competence with firearms will be issued a Level III certificate.

Individuals who have current or recent experience as peace officers may be eligible for training exemptions; requirements are described in Rule 35.131.

The commission may be transferred under certain conditions. The Board must be notified of new employment.

This is interesting, right? Just know that Texas is one of the more regulated states whereas Colorado, Idaho, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, and Wyoming have less regulation — therefore, it is even easier to become a security guard.

Easy as Getting a Driver’s License

Now, here is where it gets scary. These are screenshots from a training facility’s website here in Texas. One showcases the work needed to earn a Level II certificate, and the other shows the requirements to earn a level III certificate.

Note that, in the state of Texas, training facilities are not allowed to have any online curriculums — thus making the information below more unsettling!
This is a screenshot from a security training facility in Texas showing the requirements needed to get a Level II Security certificate. This screenshot is used in the BPS Security Blog titled, “Is it Easy to Become a Security Guard”
This is a screenshot from a security training facility in Texas showing the requirements needed to get a Level III Security certificate. This screenshot is used in the BPS Security Blog titled, “Is it Easy to Become a Security Guard”

Can Something Change?

YES! But it requires education, and not just for the potential guards! See, often companies needing to hire security officers are in a rush, or are unaware of the many issues that can arise if something were to go wrong. There have been thousands of multi-million dollar lawsuits within the past 20 years involving a security company/guard and/or their clients. Oftentimes these issues are 100% preventable… if only proper training and protocols were in place. So, as a whole, companies needing security guards need education. That way, they enter the hiring process with knowledge and realistic expectations.

Final Thoughts

When hiring a security firm, DO YOUR RESEARCH! Sure, every company has to work within budgets, but the cheapest (and sometimes the most expensive) firm is not the best option! Also realize that not every person can be a great security guard. So sure, they may have training, but if their natural instincts are not there, there will be problems!

Scroll to Top

Top 10 Security Gaps You May Not
Know You Have

Learn more about securing your assets with our handy guide and monthly newsletter by signing up below.

Thank you!