Washington State:  How to get your unarmed private security guard license

 

How to get your license

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How to get your license: Security guards Washington State

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Private security guard company

An individual, partnership, or corporation in the business of providing security guard services on a contractual basis.

 

Unarmed private security guard

An individual that works for a licensed private security guard company.

 

Armed private security guard

An individual who carries a firearm while on duty working for a licensed private security guard company.

 

Certified trainer

An endorsement to a license that allows an individual to provide pre-assignment training and attest to post-assignment training for unarmed private security guards.

 

Requirements

To be licensed as an unarmed private security guard, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old.

• Be a United States citizen or resident alien.

• Be employed by, or have a job offer from, a licensed private security guard company.

• have no felony convictions within the past 10 years.

• submit to drug testing, which may be ongoing.

• submit a fingerprint card.

• have not committed any acts of fraud.

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• Complete the pre-assignment training requirements.

• Have a completed fingerprint and background check.

  • Inside Washington: Go to www.identogo.com to schedule an appointment through MorphoTrust.

  • Outside Washington: Call the Security Guard program at 360.664.6611.

  • For more details, see Fingerprinting and background checks.

 

What you'll need

A SecureAccess Washington (SAW) account to apply online.

• If you don't have one, you'll be able to create one before you start. For help visit How to set up account access.

 

By mail

Send the following:

• Completed Private Security Guard Initial License Application.

• Check or money order for the exam fee (payable to the Department of Licensing).

Mail to:

Private Security Guard Program
Department of Licensing
PO Box 35001
Seattle, WA 98124-3401

For veterans, military personnel, and partners

Your military experience or training might help you meet licensing requirements. You may also be able to get a temporary license if you're moving here with a current license from another state. For more information visit military assistance.

If you're a U.S. veteran, you may be eligible for partial reimbursement of your fees. For more information, visit Get paid back for test fees