Become a Security Guard in North Carolina

Becoming a security guard in North Carolina is a straightforward process regulated by the North Carolina Private Protective Services Board (PPSB) under the Department of Public Safety. The state distinguishes between unarmed and armed security officers, and the requirements differ depending on which license you want. Here’s the complete step-by-step guide as of December 2025.1. Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements (Both Armed & Unarmed)

  • Be at least 18 years old for unarmed or 21 years old for armed registration.
  • Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident alien.
  • Have no disqualifying criminal convictions (felonies or certain misdemeanors involving moral turpitude, violence, or dishonesty in the past 10 years; the Board reviews all criminal history).
  • Be of good moral character (references may be requested).
  • Have no history of drug or alcohol addiction that would impair job performance.

2. Complete the Required Training

Unarmed Security Guard

  • Complete a minimum 16-hour training course approved by the PPSB. This covers
    • The Security Officer in North Carolina
    • Legal Terminology
    • Emergency Response
    • Communication
    • Patrol Procedures
    • Note Taking and Report Writing
    • Deportment
    • North Carolina Drug Schedule
    • Traffic Control

Armed Security Guard

  • First complete the PPSB unarmed training (above).
  • Then complete an additional minimum 20-hour armed security officer firearm training course that includes:
    • Legal
    • Safety
    • Handgun Operations
    • Handgun Fundamentals
    • Night Firing
  • You must qualify annually with your duty firearm passing a day and night course, 50 rounds each achieving at least 80%

3. Find a Licensed Security Company to register you as a security officer. You cannot apply as an individual.

  • Get hired from a company that holds a valid Security Guard and Patrol License.

4. Submit the Application Packet Through Your Employer. Your employer submits the following to the PPSB:

  • Completed Security Officer Application (online via the PPSB portal)
  • One fingerprint card or electronic fingerprints (LiveScan) for state and FBI background checks
  • Photo of you
  • Proof of training certificate(s)
  • Application fee (paid by employer or employee
  • Signed statement of good moral character

Processing time: 2-3 months.

5. While your security registration is pending, security guards can work using a copy of their application. Once your application is approved your guard card will be sent to your employer. Security guard cards are valid for 1 year. You must carry this card while on duty

6. Annual Requirements & Renewal

  • Unarmed: Application must be submitted within 90 days of renewal. There is no required renewal classroom training.
  • Armed: Annual firearm requalification + 4 hours CE + renewal every year.

Average cost of unarmed training: $100–$175
Average cost of armed course: $175–$275 (plus range fees)

Uniform & Patch Requirements

  • Uniforms must have at least 1.5-inch lettering saying “SECURITY” or “SECURITY OFFICER” on the chest and back.
  • No badges or patches that resemble law enforcement (the word “POLICE” is prohibited).

Important Notes

  • Contract security companies must be licensed by PPSB.
  • Out-of-state applicants: There are no transfers for guard certification from out of state applicants. Anyone wanting to work at a security guard and patrol company must take the unarmed and armed security officer certification course regardless of the security license/registration they may hold in a state.
  • Background check denials can sometimes be appealed.

Official Resources

Start by getting the training, then apply for jobs with licensed security companies. Once you’re hired, your employer handles the rest. Good luck — North Carolina’s security industry is growing fast, especially in Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, and the Research Triangle!

Train With The Best and Join One of the Fastest Growing Industries.
State Certified Unarmed & Armed Instructors
NC Unarmed Security Officer Training

$125.00

This course includes the standard NCPPSB unarmed security officer training includes information concerning roles and responsibilities of security professionals such as the conduct of an officer, report writing, access controls, safety issues, and patrol techniques. Must be at least 18 years of age to attend.

NC Armed Security Officer Training

$225.00

Pre-Requisite: UNARMED Security Officer training MUST BE COMPLETED prior to taking Armed Security Officer Training class

This course is required to be registered with the state (NCPPS certification) to work as an Armed Security Officer. This course will include Armed Security Officer Training, a written test ONLY! Firearms practical examination including day and night firearms qualification courses are a separate cost based on time at the range, ammunition used, amount of targets and rental equipment. Must be at least 21 years of age to attend.

This is a 4-hour course required to renew your Armed Security Officer registration for those already certified and registered with the state of NC to be an Armed Security Officer. The Armed Security Officer renewal certification will include Classroom Training and Day/Night firearms qualification.