Security Guard License in North

Direct answer (47 words): To get a security guard license in North Carolina (called “registration”), you must be hired by a PPSB‑licensed company, complete state training (16 hours unarmed; +20 hours armed), and have your employer submit your online application with fees and fingerprints to the NC Private Protective Services Board.

Requirements last verified: 2026-09-28

How to get a security guard license in North Carolina

1. Get hired by a PPSB‑licensed firm. You cannot self‑apply; your employer submits the registration. Employers may use an unarmed hire for up to 20 consecutive days as a probationary employee before registering you (PPSB).
2. Complete required training. Take the 16‑hour unarmed course within 30 days of permanent hire; armed applicants must also complete the 20‑hour firearms course (within 90 days of application) and qualify on PPSB courses of fire (14B NCAC 16 .0707; .0807).
3. Gather documents and fingerprints. Provide a digital photo, the CRC.com criminal history search (60‑month for new; 12‑month for renewals), the Authority for Release of Information form, and an FD‑258 fingerprint card mailed to PPSB (PPSB).
4. Have your employer submit the online application and fees. Unarmed: $30 app + $38 fingerprint. Armed: $45 app + $38 fingerprint. Your concealed carry permit is needed only if you’ll carry concealed (PPSB).
5. Receive your PPSB registration card. Carry it while working and present it upon request. If you change unarmed employers, request a transfer; armed registrants use dual or reissue processes as applicable (14B NCAC 16 .0705; Procedures Manual).
6. Renew on time each year. Unarmed renewals may be late within 90 days (+$25). Armed renewals must arrive before expiration and include a 4‑hour annual course and qualifications—otherwise you must retake the 20‑hour course (PPSB; Procedures Manual).

North Carolina security guard license: key points

Registration versus company licensing

In North Carolina, individuals are registered as unarmed or armed security guards; companies hold the Security Guard & Patrol license and must maintain liability insurance with the Board. If you plan to start a firm later, review PPSB’s company licensing and insurance rules (PPSB Apply for a License; PPSB License Renewal).

Exactly what training is required?

The unarmed course is a 16‑hour PPSB‑approved curriculum. Armed applicants must first complete the unarmed course, then a 20‑hour firearms course and qualify with their duty weapon; annual 4‑hour recertification with day/night qualification is required to stay armed (14B NCAC 16 .0707; .0807; Procedures Manual).

Age and eligibility

Unarmed applicants must be at least 18. Armed applicants must be at least 21 and meet firearms training and qualification standards. Moral character and criminal history standards also apply to all registrants (14B NCAC 16 .0703; Procedures Manual).

Deadlines, probationary work, and submissions

Employers may place unarmed hires on a 20‑day probationary period, then must register them within 30 days after that period. Armed renewals cannot be submitted late; late unarmed renewals are accepted up to 90 days with a $25 late fee (PPSB).

Costs to get a security guard license in North Carolina

Your out‑of‑pocket costs include PPSB application and fingerprint fees and the CRC.com background‑check fee, plus course tuition charged by your trainer. For a deeper line‑item breakdown and budgeting tips, see our detailed guide on Security Guard License Cost in NC. If you’re comparing states, our analysis of South Carolina security guard licensing costs is handy for border commuters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I apply for a North Carolina security guard license myself?

No. Your PPSB‑licensed employer must submit your online registration application through the state portal, with your training certificate(s), CRC.com background check, and FD‑258 fingerprint card (PPSB).

How long does North Carolina guard registration last?

Registrations are renewed annually. Unarmed renewals are $30 and can be filed up to 90 days late (+$25). Armed renewals are $45 and cannot be submitted late; expiration triggers retaking the 20‑hour course (PPSB; Procedures Manual).

What are the training timelines?

Unarmed: complete the 16‑hour course within 30 days of permanent hire. Armed: complete the 20‑hour course with a certificate dated within 90 days of your application; then complete a 4‑hour armed renewal course and day/night qualification annually (14B NCAC 16 .0707; .0807).

What’s the minimum age to be a security guard in North Carolina?

Unarmed registrants must be at least 18 years old; armed registrants must be at least 21 years old per PPSB policy and procedures (14B NCAC 16 .0703; Procedures Manual).

Do I need insurance?

No, not as an individual registrant. However, your employing Security Guard & Patrol company must keep a liability insurance certificate on file with PPSB to maintain its license (PPSB License Renewal).

If you’re eyeing investigative work after your guard experience, compare requirements in our NC Private Investigator License guide and the broader North Carolina PI License overview.

Ready to move forward? License Navigator can map your training, paperwork, and costs into a step‑by‑step plan tailored to your employer and timeline.