In Illinois, security guards are employed by a licensed private security contractor who is licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. In order to be registered, security guard applicants must:

  • be 18 years of age or 21 years of age for armed security guards;
  • be a citizen of the United States or a legal resident alien;
  • pass an employment and criminal history background check;
  • complete a 20-hour basic training course;
  • complete a 20-hour firearm training course for armed security guards;
  • submit fingerprints; and
  • pay required fees.

For more information, contact:

Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
320 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor, Springfield, IL 62786
Phone: 217.785.0800, Fax: 217.782.7645