Security Guard License Minnesota

There is no personal “security guard license” in Minnesota. To work security, you must be employed by a Board‑licensed Protective Agent and complete required training; to run a security company, you must obtain a Protective Agent license. Below are the exact steps, fees, and rules.

Requirements last verified: 2026-09-26

How to get a security guard job in Minnesota

1. Confirm the model: Minnesota does not issue individual guard licenses. Plan either to work for a Board‑licensed Protective Agent or to become a Protective Agent licensee yourself. Agency overview.
2. Get hired by a licensed Protective Agent. Your employer must be licensed with the Board. They will register you internally and handle required BCA fingerprinting. §326.336.
3. Complete 12 hours of preassignment training within your first 21 days of employment. This must be a Board‑certified course covering required topics. Keep your certificate. Minn. R. 7506.2600; §326.3361.
4. If you will be armed, complete Board‑certified firearms training before carrying, and maintain any ongoing qualification your employer requires. DPS Armed Training; Minn. R. 7506.2300.
5. Undergo employer‑submitted BCA fingerprint check and receive your employer‑issued ID card before working solo. §326.336.
6. Keep training current per your employer’s policies and Board rules; do not carry weapons without the required certifications. Minn. R. 7506.

How to get a Minnesota Protective Agent (security company) license

If your goal is to run a security company, apply for a Protective Agent license:

1. Meet eligibility: 6,000 hours qualifying experience for the individual applicant/qualified representative/Minnesota manager. §326.3382, subd. 2(c).
2. Prepare application packet and fingerprints for all required signers; pay license fee (Individual $800; Corp/LLC $1,800). Fees and forms; §326.3382.
3. Obtain $10,000 surety bond and acceptable proof of financial responsibility (GL policy with specified coverages, net worth statement, or letter of credit). §326.3382, subd. 3.
4. Await Board determination; licenses issue for two years. Processing times vary. eLicense.
5. After approval, ensure every employee completes the 12‑hour preassignment training within 21 days and, if armed, the required armed course. Minn. R. 7506.2600; DPS Armed Training.
6. Renew biennially and report officer changes and staffing as required; operating on a lapsed license is prohibited. eLicense; Minn. R. 7506.

Understanding Minnesota security guard licensing

Because Minnesota regulates the business entity (Protective Agent) rather than the individual guard, your path depends on your goal. Most entrants simply complete the 12‑hour preassignment course and background steps through their employer. If you’re budgeting a future company, see our breakdown of the Security Guard License Cost in Minnesota for fees and typical insurance outlays.

Armed security guard requirements in Minnesota

Before you carry a firearm on duty you must complete a Board‑certified firearms course; no one may carry while performing licensable duties without it. Employers also maintain records of your armed certification and qualifications. Cite: Minn. R. 7506.2300; DPS Armed Training.

Private investigator vs. security guard in Minnesota

Investigations require a Private Detective license (business) under the same Board but with different qualifying experience and fees. If your work will include surveillance or investigative services, review our step‑by‑step guide to the Private Investigator Minnesota License and the full Private Investigator License Minnesota requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a personal Minnesota security guard license?

No. Minnesota licenses Protective Agents (security companies) through the Board; individual guards work for a licensed agency, complete 12 hours of preassignment training within 21 days, and undergo a BCA fingerprint background check via the employer. eLicense; Minn. R. 7506.2600; §326.336.

How much does it cost to start a Minnesota security company?

State fees are $800 (Individual) or $1,800 (Corp/LLC) for a new Protective Agent license, plus a $10,000 surety bond and proof of financial responsibility (insurance, net worth, or LOC). Renewals are biennial and tiered by employee count. Fees; §326.3382, subd. 3.

What training is required to work as a security guard?

At minimum, 12 hours of preassignment or on‑the‑job training within your first 21 days. If you will be armed, you must complete a Board‑certified firearms course before carrying on duty. Minn. R. 7506.2600; DPS Armed Training.

What background checks are required?

When a licensed Protective Agent hires you, the employer must submit your fingerprints to the BCA for a criminal record check; employees must also carry an employer‑issued ID card while on duty. Minn. Stat. §326.336.

Is there a state exam?

No exam is required for employees. For Protective Agent licensure, statutes require experience, fingerprints, bond/insurance, and Board review—not a written exam. Minn. Stat. §326.3382.

Ready to map your path—employee or company owner? License Navigator can help you plan training, costs, and timelines for Minnesota security work.