Armed Security Guard / Virginia
2026 data Virginia board official source

Virginia Armed Security Guard License Requirements

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 Virginia data shows for Armed Security Guards

To practice as a armed security guard in Virginia, the state licensing board requires 37 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 Virginia's professional licensing framework, which classifies training as "Security Guard Training".

Upfront cost is $116, with renewal running $73 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 Virginia

Education / Training Hours
Security Guard Training
37 hours
Exam Requirement
Not Required
Initial License Fee
$116
Renewal Fee
$73
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
8 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
0

License Reciprocity

Not typically reciprocal

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Armed Security Guard in Virginia? ▼
Virginia requires 37 education/training hours, and an initial fee of $116. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Armed Security Guard in Virginia? ▼
To become a licensed armed security guard in Virginia, you must meet the state's requirements including 37 hours of education. Contact the Virginia licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Armed Security Guard license to Virginia from another state? ▼
Virginia has reciprocity provisions: Not typically reciprocal. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the Virginia licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does Virginia require a background check for Armed Security Guard licensing? ▼
Yes, Virginia 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 Virginia? ▼
Licensed armed security guards in Virginia must complete 8 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $73.

Related Guides

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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 Virginia → Worker Safety Data → Government Jobs →

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

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