Security guard license ยท NY
How to get a security guard license in New York
Updated
New York registers security guards through the Division of Licensing Services at the Department of State. Training is taken at DCJS-approved schools (DCJS is the Division of Criminal Justice Services).
This page summarizes New York's official security guard licensing rules for general information. It is not legal advice. Rules and fees change, so confirm with the New York State Department of State, Division of Licensing Services before you apply.
Credential: Security Guard Registration
Oldest check on this page: 2026-09-24
Who can apply
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Minimum age
Verified 2026-09-24You must be at least 18 to apply.
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Registration required
Verified 2026-09-24Anyone doing security guard work must be registered with the Department of State and complete DCJS-approved training unless exempt.
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Criminal history
Verified 2026-09-24The Department of State reviews your record of past criminal arrests and convictions.
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Fingerprints
Verified 2026-09-24Fingerprints are taken electronically through IdentoGo.
Training
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Before you apply
Verified 2026-09-248-hour pre-assignment training, taken once; include the certificate with your application.
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After you start
Verified 2026-09-2416 hours of on-the-job training within 90 days of starting work.
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Every year
Verified 2026-09-24An 8-hour annual in-service course each calendar year.
Renewal
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Two-year registration
Verified 2026-09-24The registration lasts two years; you need two annual in-service courses in that period to renew.
Fees
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Application fee
Verified 2026-09-24$36.00 non-refundable application fee to the Department of State.
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DCJS fingerprint fee
Verified 2026-09-24$75.00 DCJS fee.
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FBI fee
Verified 2026-09-24$12.00 FBI fee.
If you want to carry a firearm
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Firearms course
Verified 2026-09-2447-hour firearms training; to enroll, you need a guard registration and a valid New York pistol permit.
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Every year
Verified 2026-09-24An 8-hour annual firearms course every calendar year while your armed registration is active.
Sources
- Employee Statement and Security Guard Application (DOS-1206-f-a, Rev. 12/24), New York State Department of State, Division of Licensing Services
Changes to this page
- First published from the DOS security guard application form DOS-1206-f-a (Rev. 12/24).
- Added a link to our new page on checking a registration with the state's Licensee Search and Security Guard Registry. No rules on this page changed.
This page summarizes New York's official security guard licensing rules for general information. It is not legal advice. Rules and fees change, so confirm with the New York State Department of State, Division of Licensing Services before you apply.
Spotted a rule that changed? Tell us at the address below and we'll re-check the official source.