How to Get a Security Guard License in
This guide explains Tennessee’s unarmed security guard licensing process: 4 hours of training with a trainer‑administered exam, IdentoGO fingerprints, CORE application, and exact state fees. It also covers device classifications, work‑while‑pending rules, and renewal training so you can stay compliant.
To get a security guard license in Tennessee, complete 4 hours of unarmed guard training with a certified trainer and pass the exam, submit fingerprints via IdentoGO using ORI TN920120Z, apply online in CORE, and pay the fee. You may work unarmed on a complete application while it’s processing. Official requirements; fees.
Requirements last verified: 2026-09-29
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Licensing agency | Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance, Private Protective Services (PPS). Program page |
| Application portal | Submit the Initial Unarmed Guard Registration Application in CORE. How to apply |
| Fees | Unarmed: $95 initial; $70 renewal (every 2 years). Armed (for comparison): $130 initial; $85 renewal. Late fee: $20/month within 90‑day grace period. Official fee schedule |
| Background check | Fingerprint-based check via IdentoGO (ORI TN920120Z); pay vendor-set processing fee separately. Unarmed page; IdentoGO instructions |
| Training (initial) | Unarmed: 4 hours covering orientation, legal powers/limits, emergency procedures, general duties; includes an examination administered by a certified trainer. Unarmed page; State training summary quoting T.C.A. § 62‑35‑118 |
| Exam | Exam on core topics is required as part of initial training; graded by the certified trainer. T.C.A. § 62‑35‑118 (summary) |
| Minimum age | 18 for unarmed; 21 for armed. Unarmed; Armed |
| Special classifications | Device-specific training (baton, stun gun, chemical spray) required to add to your card. Alcohol-on-premises posts require de‑escalation, safe restraint, first aid, and CPR within 15 days. Unarmed page |
| Work while pending | Unarmed applicants may work while a complete application is processing if the fee is paid and a copy of the complete application is carried on person; armed must wait for the card. Policy |
| Insurance/Bond | No insurance requirement for individual guards; insurance applies to companies/PSOs. Renewal page (company/PSO insurance references) |
| Renewal | Every 2 years; unarmed requires 2 hours refresher training before renewal; 90‑day grace period with $20/month late fee. Renewal details |
How to get a security guard license in Tennessee
- Confirm eligibility. You must be 18+ (unarmed) and a U.S. citizen or resident alien with no disqualifying convictions within the last 5 years. Eligibility list
- Complete fingerprints. Schedule IdentoGO, use ORI TN920120Z, and retain your receipt. Fingerprint overview; submission instructions
- Take the 4‑hour unarmed course and exam. Train with a state-certified trainer; your trainer administers the exam over the four required topics. Training topics
- Apply in CORE and pay $95. Upload the required head-and-shoulders photo and submit your application. CORE application link; fee table
- Start unarmed work while processing (optional). Once your application is complete and fee paid, you may work unarmed if you keep a copy of your complete application on you. Work‑while‑pending rule
- Add classifications as needed. Get device-specific training (baton, OC spray, stun gun) and, if assigned to alcohol‑serving venues, complete Dallas’s Law training within 15 days. Classification rules
- Renew every 2 years. Complete 2 hours of refresher training and renew in CORE; late renewals incur $20/month within the 90‑day grace period. Renewal steps
What counts as the Tennessee security guard exam?
Tennessee does not use a PSI exam for unarmed guards. The required examination is embedded in the 4‑hour course and is administered and graded by your certified trainer over the four statutory subjects. Training overview • Exam requirement (T.C.A. § 62‑35‑118 summary)
Fingerprinting, timing, and working while your Tennessee guard card is pending
All applicants must complete a fingerprint-based background check through IdentoGO using ORI TN920120Z. Unarmed applicants who submit a complete application and fee may work while it’s processing, but must carry a copy of the complete application at all times. Armed applicants must wait for their registration card. Official policy
How much does a Tennessee security guard license cost?
Expect $95 for the initial unarmed registration and $70 for biennial renewal, plus separate vendor fees for fingerprints and whatever your trainer charges for the 4‑hour course. See the state’s fee table and our breakdown in Security Guard License Cost Tennessee. Official fees
Upgrading to armed or moving into investigations
To become armed, meet the age 21 minimum and complete armed training and firearms qualification; enhanced armed requirements for long guns take effect January 1, 2026. Armed requirements. Considering investigations? Review our guide to the Tennessee Private Investigator License path.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a Tennessee security guard license?
Time varies by fingerprint processing and application volume. Tennessee allows unarmed applicants to work while a complete application is processing, provided the fee is paid and they carry a copy of the complete application. Armed applicants must wait for their registration card. Policy details
Do I need previous experience to become an unarmed guard in Tennessee?
No prior experience is required. You must be at least 18, complete a fingerprint background check, and complete 4 hours of training with a trainer-administered exam on the core topics. Eligibility & training
What training is required to renew a Tennessee unarmed guard registration?
Unarmed guards must complete 2 hours of refresher training before renewing every two years; there is a 90‑day grace period with a $20/month late fee. Renew in CORE. Renewal requirements
Can I carry OC spray, a baton, or a stun gun on post?
Yes, if you complete device‑specific training with a state‑certified trainer and add those classifications to your registration card. Posts with on‑premises alcohol service also require Dallas’s Law training (de‑escalation, safe restraint, first aid, CPR) within 15 days. Classification rules
What are the exact Tennessee security guard license fees?
Unarmed: $95 initial, $70 renewal. Armed: $130 initial, $85 renewal. Late renewal is $20/month within a 90‑day grace period. Fingerprint processing is paid separately to IdentoGO. Official fee schedule • Renewal page
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