Armed Security Guard / District of Columbia
2026 data District of Columbia board official source

District of Columbia Armed Security Guard License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

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Provides security services with authorization to carry a firearm.

What the District of Columbia data shows for Armed Security Guards

Becoming a licensed armed security guard in District of Columbia means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 49 training hours, no state exam, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 18. District of Columbia regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Security Guard Training".

Upfront cost is $154, with renewal running $94 on a 2-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 8 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Not typically reciprocal.

Licensing Requirements in District of Columbia

Education / Training Hours
Security Guard Training
49 hours
Exam Requirement
Not Required
Initial License Fee
$154
Renewal Fee
$94
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
8 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

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Compare all states for Armed Security Guard All District of Columbia licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with District of Columbia licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Armed Security Guard in District of Columbia? ▼
District of Columbia's requirements cover 49 hours of education or training, and an initial fee of $154. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as an Armed Security Guard in District of Columbia? ▼
Certification as an armed security guard in District of Columbia means clearing the state's checklist: 49 hours of education. The District of Columbia licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Armed Security Guard license to District of Columbia from another state? ▼
For armed security guards, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: Not typically reciprocal. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the District of Columbia licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does District of Columbia require a background check for Armed Security Guard licensing? ▼
District of Columbia does require a background check before issuing an armed security guard license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Armed Security Guard in District of Columbia? ▼
District of Columbia ties continued armed security guard licensure to 8 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $94 renewal fee.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.