Security Guard License Requirements in Nevada
Nevada security guards are under the jurisdiction of the Nevada Private Investigator’s Licensing Board. Employees are registered and issued work cards.
The Board also licenses private patrol officers; the Board defines a private patrol officer as someone who furnishes workers such as guards, patrol officers, and armored transport. Requirements and fees are higher. License applications may be submitted by individuals or corporations. A corporation must have someone on board who meets state requirements.
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Select a Nevada Security Guard Requirement Topic:
- Find Security Training Near You
- Nevada Security Guard Requirements
- Armed Security Officer Training Requirements in Nevada
- Background Check Requirements
- Private Patrolman Requirements and Application Process
- Security Officer Application Process
- Licensing Departments and Additional Information
Nevada Security Guard Requirements
Security guards must be at least 18. They must meet character and citizenship/ residency requirements. They may not have felony convictions. Additionally, they cannot have been convicted of crimes involving moral turpitude or illegal possession or use of dangerous weapons.
An individual who will be working for a Board-licensed security company will need to pass the examination found in the application packet. It is based on state statutes and administrative code. The following topics are covered:
- Rights of citizens
- Powers of arrest
- Limits of authority
- Recognizing noncompliance with laws
- Recognizing noncompliance with regulations
The Board requires 100%. Retakes are permitted. However, this can delay the registration process. The Board has made a study guide available. Candidates may download study guides or request print copies; print copies cost $5.00.
Armed Security Guard Requirements
In order to be authorized to carry a firearm, a security guard must be at least 21. The individual will not be registered until such time as he or she has an employer.
The prospective armed guard must take a Board-approved course. It is the employer’s responsibility to arrange for training. The employer will also provide documentation to the Board.
An individual who is certified as a firearms instructor or has worked as a peace officer may be exempted from the usual training requirements.
An armed guard is expected to fire qualifying rounds every six months.
The Security Guard Background Check Process
The Nevada Board requires fingerprint-based criminal background checks .This step is carried out after application. The Board has provided a list of private agencies that are authorized to provide fingerprinting services. The applicant is to bring his or her receipt when visiting a preferred location. Out-of-state candidates will need to provide fingerprints on FBI-approved FD-258 cards.
The Board notes that the fee paid at the time of application covers the cost of background check processing.
An applicant may receive provisional status before results of the background check are known.
The Registration Application Process
Security guard applicants may download their application forms or apply online; they may begin by selecting “work cards/ registered employee services”.
The licensing agency will require the following:
- Two forms of identification (driver’s license or ID and social security card or birth certificate)
- A passport-style photograph
- Exam
- Work authorization or permanent resident card (non-citizens only)
Some supporting documents can be uploaded to the online system or, if this is not possible, sent by mail, email, or fax. The Board does not, however, recommend faxing photographs.
Individuals who opt to print and mail their applications may send them to either the Carson City or Las Vegas address.
The application fee may be $85 or $95 depending on the method of fingerprint submission; the processing fee is reduced for those who utilize electronic services.
There is a $44 fee for an expedited work card.
The Board has provided a list of frequently asked questions (http://pilb.nv.gov/).
Private Patrolman Requirements and Application Process
In order to be eligible for a private patrolman license, an individual must have at least five years of experience in the security industry; this is defined as 10,000 hours.
The applicant must pass an examination. The minimum score is currently 75%. In the case of corporations, it is the qualifying agent who will be tested.
The examination is administered in Carson City and Las Vegas. Currently it is available four times per year. The Board has published a list of upcoming examination dates. Applications are to be in at least a month before the intended examination. The Board will send confirmation to approved candidates. Those who have not yet received confirmation are asked not to attempt to attend an examination session.
A prospective licensee will have state and federal background checks; he or she will need to submit two fingerprint cards and a $51.25 fee. In cases where the applicant has lived in California, it will be necessary to carry out an additional background check through the California Department of Justice (CDOJ). This will entail submission of a third fingerprint card and an additional $32 fee; the fee will be made out to CDOJ. The application packet includes current fingerprinting information and fees.
Corporation members/ officers will also submit fingerprint cards and identifying documentation; there is a separate brief application form that can be downloaded from the Board website.
Qualifying experience can be documented by employers or supervisors. The Board may accept documentation by another qualified individual; in this instance, the individual will need to justify his or her qualifications.
The applicant will also need to provide three references.
The Board will require a financial statement. Corporate entities must provide additional documentation.
The application package includes several documents that require notarization. The application is to be accompanied by a nonrefundable $100 examination fee and $750 background deposit. There is an additional application fee of $20 per person. Applicants with questions are invited to call the Board.
Application materials are sent to the Carson City office; the address is included in the application packet.
Additional Information
Credentialing information is available from the Nevada Private Investigator’s Licensing Board (https://nevadapilb.glsuite.us/HomeFrame.aspx). Applicable statutes are found in Chapter 648 of state code (https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-648.html#NRS648Sec110). The Board can be reached by telephone at (775) 687-3223 or by email at ‘pilbinfo at ag.nv.gov’.