Armed Security Guard / Tennessee
2026 data Tennessee board official source

Tennessee Armed Security Guard License Requirements

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

PlainCredential home → About this data

Provides security services with authorization to carry a firearm.

What the Tennessee data shows for Armed Security Guards

To practice as a armed security guard in Tennessee, the state licensing board requires 35 documented education or training hours, no mandatory state exam. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Tennessee's professional licensing framework, which classifies training as "Security Guard Training".

Upfront cost is $110, with renewal running $69 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.

Reciprocity is available: Not typically reciprocal. Compared to the profession-wide pattern, the numbers above should be cross-checked against other states before relocating — licensing cost, training hours, and exam requirements vary enough that a different state may cut thousands of dollars and months of training from the path. The state board, not this page, is the final authority; verify every field below with the official regulator before you pay fees or enroll in training.

Licensing Requirements in Tennessee

Education / Training Hours
Security Guard Training
35 hours
Exam Requirement
Not Required
Initial License Fee
$110
Renewal Fee
$69
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
8 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
0

License Reciprocity

Not typically reciprocal

Compare & Explore

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Armed Security Guard in Tennessee? ▼
Tennessee requires 35 education/training hours, and an initial fee of $110. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Armed Security Guard in Tennessee? ▼
To become a licensed armed security guard in Tennessee, you must meet the state's requirements including 35 hours of education. Contact the Tennessee licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Armed Security Guard license to Tennessee from another state? ▼
Tennessee has reciprocity provisions: Not typically reciprocal. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the Tennessee licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does Tennessee require a background check for Armed Security Guard licensing? ▼
Yes, Tennessee requires a criminal background check as part of the armed security guard licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Armed Security Guard in Tennessee? ▼
Licensed armed security guards in Tennessee must complete 8 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $69.

Related Guides

►
Transferring Your License
State-by-state portability guide
 ►
License Reciprocity
Which states accept your credentials

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

Related Data Sources

Armed Security Guard Salaries → Labor Market in Tennessee → Worker Safety Data → Government Jobs →

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

Related

Browse all → | Rankings →