Get a Security Guard License in Nevada

To get a security guard license in Nevada, apply for a Nevada PILB registered work card, pass the PILB security exam with 100%, submit fingerprints, and meet age and background standards. Unarmed registration is valid 5 years; armed status requires a 2‑day firearms course and semiannual requalification. NRS 648; NAC 648.

Requirements last verified: 2026-09-28

How to get a security guard license in Nevada

1. Confirm eligibility. You must be 18+, of good moral character, and without disqualifying convictions. Review NRS 648.1493 for qualifications.
2. Pass the PILB security exam (100%). A PILB-licensed private patrol officer or security guard administers the Board’s exam; a 100% score (or verified 100% within the last 60 months) is required before employment. See NAC 648.341 and NAC 648.343.
3. Complete the Work Card Application. Use the official PILB Applicant Work Card Application form and instructions, attach a passport photo, and provide your Social Security number and ID. Form: PILB Applicant Work Card Application.
4. Submit fingerprints and fees. Provide an electronic fingerprint receipt (fee $85) or two fingerprint cards (fee $95) per NAC 648.3403. The Board conducts Nevada and FBI background checks.
5. Receive provisional registration. When your application is complete and background review initiated, PILB may issue a provisional registration so you can start work; it generally expires in 90 days unless replaced by the permanent card. See NRS 648.1495 and PILB timelines.
6. Get your permanent registered work card. Once fingerprints clear, PILB issues your 5‑year work card. Keep your card (or provisional + ID) on your person while on duty per PILB policy.
7. Upgrade to armed status (optional). After you’re on your employer’s roster, obtain a signed Verification of Employment for Armed Security (VEAS), complete the 2‑day firearms course with a Board-certified instructor, and requalify every 6 months; PILB will issue a new armed work card. See NAC 648.345 and the PILB Firearms guidance.
8. Renew on time every 5 years. Before your card expires, submit a renewal application, photo, fingerprints and renewal fee (set by the Board) to keep working without interruption. See NRS 648.1493(5).

Nevada security guard license: key laws, fees, and forms

Nevada regulates private security under NRS 648 and NAC 648. You’ll register as a PILB “registered employee” (work card). The exact registration fee is $85 (with electronic fingerprints) or $95 (with two fingerprint cards), set in NAC 648.3403. Use the official PILB Work Card Application. ([leg.state.nv.us](https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NAC/NAC-648.html))

Unarmed vs. armed Nevada security guard credentials

Unarmed registration authorizes security work statewide for 5 years, subject to renewal. Armed status requires employer sponsorship (VEAS), a Board-approved, 2‑day course (8 hours classroom + ~5 hours range), and requalification every 6 months; PILB issues a new armed card after certification. ([pilb.nv.gov](https://pilb.nv.gov/uploadedFiles/pilbnvgov/Content/Forms/LicenseBookletJAN2019.pdf))

Processing times and provisional work cards

PILB indicates about 10 calendar days from a complete application and fees to “provisional” status; provisional registration typically lasts up to 90 days while fingerprint results post. Keep your provisional plus ID on your person while working until your permanent card arrives. ([pilb.nv.gov](https://pilb.nv.gov/uploadedFiles/pilbnvgov/Content/Forms/LicenseBookletJAN2019.pdf))

Related Nevada licensing paths

If you plan to manage contracts or start a security company, you’ll deal with the same Board that oversees private patrol and investigation businesses—see our deep dive on Nevada Private Investigators Licensing Board licensing. Thinking about surveillance or casework? Explore our guide to the Nevada private investigator license process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to get a Nevada security guard license?

The PILB registration fee is $85 with electronic fingerprint submission or $95 with two ink fingerprint cards (NAC 648.3403). You’ll also pay for fingerprinting service and any employer/onboarding costs. Renewal at 5 years requires a new application, fingerprints, and a Board-set renewal fee. ([leg.state.nv.us](https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NAC/NAC-648.html))

How long does it take to get a Nevada security guard card?

After PILB receives a complete application, photo, fingerprints, exam verification, and fees, provisional status typically arrives in about 10 calendar days; permanent cards issue after background clearance. Provisional registrations generally expire after 90 days if not converted. ([pilb.nv.gov](https://pilb.nv.gov/uploadedFiles/pilbnvgov/Content/Forms/LicenseBookletJAN2019.pdf))

What score do I need on the Nevada security guard exam?

You must score 100% on the Board’s exam before employment (or verify a 100% score earned within the previous 60 months). The exam covers powers of arrest, limits of authority, citizen rights, and key statutes and regulations. ([leg.state.nv.us](https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NAC/NAC-648.html))

What are the armed security guard requirements in Nevada?

Your employer adds you to the roster and signs the Verification of Employment for Armed Security (VEAS). You must complete a 2‑day Board-approved course with a certified firearms instructor and requalify every 6 months; PILB issues a new armed card. ([pilb.nv.gov](https://pilb.nv.gov/uploadedFiles/pilbnvgov/Content/Forms/LicenseBookletJAN2019.pdf))

How long is a Nevada security guard license valid?

Your registered work card expires 5 years after issuance. Renew on or before the expiration by submitting a renewal application, photo, fingerprints, and the Board’s renewal fee to avoid interruption. ([leg.state.nv.us](https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-648.html))

Do I need insurance or a bond?

Individual registrants don’t carry a bond or insurance. Your Nevada-licensed employer must maintain at least $200,000 in general liability insurance for services provided under the license. ([pilb.nv.gov](https://pilb.nv.gov/uploadedFiles/pilbnvgov/Content/Forms/LicenseBookletJAN2019.pdf))

Ready to move forward? License Navigator can guide you from exam through fingerprints to armed certification—so you get your Nevada security guard credentials right the first time.