Armed Security Guard / Illinois
2026 data Illinois board official source

Illinois 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 Illinois data shows for Armed Security Guards

Becoming a licensed armed security guard in Illinois means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 74 training hours, no state exam, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 18. Illinois regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Security Guard Training".

Budget $232 to get started, plus $139 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 8 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

On reciprocity, armed security guards should know: Not typically reciprocal.

Licensing Requirements in Illinois

Education / Training Hours
Security Guard Training
74 hours
Exam Requirement
Not Required
Initial License Fee
$232
Renewal Fee
$139
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 Illinois licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Illinois licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Armed Security Guard in Illinois? ▼
Illinois requires 74 education/training hours, and an initial fee of $232. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as an Armed Security Guard in Illinois? ▼
To become a licensed armed security guard in Illinois, you must meet the state's requirements including 74 hours of education. Contact the Illinois licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Armed Security Guard license to Illinois from another state? ▼
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for armed security guards: Not typically reciprocal. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the Illinois licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Illinois require a background check for Armed Security Guard licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the armed security guard licensing process in Illinois. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Armed Security Guard in Illinois? ▼
Illinois ties continued armed security guard licensure to 8 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $139 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.