The Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) treats security guards as specialized positions that require state-approved training. Additionally, people who provide contract security services must find a licensed security company willing to sponsor them, submit fingerprints, and receive a Guard Card from the AZDPS.
You can begin by applying to security companies that provide or arrange training for new employees. You can also complete the required training on your own before beginning your job search. This guide explains both options and walks you through the process from choosing a career path to receiving your Guard Card.
Key Takeaways
- Arizona offers unarmed and armed Security Guard registrations.
- The 8-hour unarmed course is the starting point for both career paths.
- Armed guards must complete an additional 16-hour firearms course.
- You may complete your training before finding a security job.
- Every new application requires fingerprints for a state and federal background check.
- Armed guards must complete refresher training and requalify every calendar year.
- Arizona Guard Cards are generally valid for four years.
Step 1: Make Sure You Meet Arizona’s Basic Requirements
Before paying for a course or applying for security jobs, confirm that you meet Arizona’s eligibility requirements. Under Arizona law, a Security Guard applicant must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident authorized to seek employment in the United States
- Meet the state’s criminal history requirements
- Not be a registered sex offender
- Not be subject to certain warrants, release conditions, or disqualifying probation
- Meet other eligibility standards established by AZDPS
Applicants for an Armed Guard Card must meet additional requirements related to firearm possession, military discharge status, and domestic violence convictions.
A criminal record does not always determine the outcomes. The type of offense, when it occurred, and other circumstances may affect eligibility. Arizona Security Group cannot determine whether AZDPS will approve an application or provide legal advice about an applicant’s record. Review the current AZDPS licensing information and Arizona’s Security Guard applicant qualifications if you have questions about your eligibility.
Step 2: Complete the Required Unarmed Security Guard Training
Every Arizona Security Guard begins with the required 8-hour unarmed training course. This is the starting point whether you plan to work as an unarmed guard or eventually pursue armed positions.
Arizona’s unarmed course covers foundational subjects such as:
- The role and responsibilities of a Security Guard
- Communication
- Security procedures
- Use of force
- Relevant Arizona laws
- First response
- Crime-scene preservation
- Emergency response
- Ethics
- Uniform and grooming standards
Students may complete this course in person or through an approved online unarmed training course.
After completing the course, you can pursue an Unarmed Guard Card or continue with the additional training required for armed security work.
Step 3: Decide Whether to Pursue Unarmed or Armed Security Work
Once you have completed the unarmed course, you can choose the path that fits your career goals.
Unarmed Security Guard
An Unarmed Guard Card allows you to accept security assignments that do not require you to carry a firearm. Depending on the position, an unarmed guard may:
- Monitor a property
- Control access
- Conduct patrols
- Observe and report suspicious activity
- Respond to incidents
- Contact emergency services
- Prepare written reports
Applicants who want to begin in unarmed security can move forward with completing the Guard Card application process and seeking employment. You may also find an employer who will pay for your training as part of the hiring process under the condition that you will work for them for a fixed period of time.
Armed Security Guard
Applicants who want to pursue armed security positions must complete an additional 16-hour Armed Security Guard course. This in-person course includes classroom instruction, a written examination, and a live-fire range qualification.
Armed training covers topics such as:
- Basic marksmanship
- Weapon care and maintenance
- Mental conditioning and tactics
- Use of force
- Relevant Arizona laws
- Range qualification
The armed course is not an introductory shooting class but is designed to confirm that students can handle their firearms safely and effectively. Students should already be familiar with the firearm they plan to use during qualification.
To carry a firearm while on official duty, armed security guards must be linked to an employer. You may complete the armed guard training before you are employed. After you are hired, your new employer will submit an agency code to officially tie your license to their company.
Step 4: Complete Fingerprinting
Every Security Guard application requires a fingerprint card and fingerprint affidavit. These fingerprints are used to check Arizona and FBI criminal history records. A fingerprint clearance card, concealed weapons permit, or fingerprints previously submitted for another purpose should not be assumed to satisfy the security licensing requirement.
Arizona Security Group provides fingerprinting services for Guard Card applicants and other professionals who need employment or licensing fingerprints. Fingerprints and photographs are also included with ASG’s in-person unarmed training. Students who take the online course can schedule a separate appointment.
Step 5: Complete Your Guard Card Paperwork and Submit Your Application
The paperwork for an AZDPS Guard Card application is straightforward but must be completed carefully. Small details like a missed signature can lead to rejection.
You must also be certain your packet is complete before submission to avoid a failed application. The typical packet includes:
- A completed and signed Security Guard application
- The employer section completed by your sponsoring agency
- The required Training Verification Form
- A passport-style color photograph
- Complete fingerprint affidavit form
- Applicable licensing fees
Once approved, the AZDPS will mail your guard card to the address on file.
Step 6: Begin Working and Maintain Your Registration
Once you receive your card, you can work within the scope of your Guard Card and employer authorization.
Arizona Guard Cards are generally valid for four years. Unarmed guards must complete the required training again as part of the renewal process.
Armed guards have an additional annual obligation. They must complete an 8-hour armed refresher course during each calendar year, including the written test and range requalification. They must also satisfy the requirements for their four-year registration renewal.
Skills to Advance Your Security Career
A Guard Card is the entry credential, not the end of your professional development. Additional training will prepare you for broader responsibilities and more specialized assignments.
Useful courses may include:
The right next step depends on the type of security work you want to perform. New guards should focus first on communication, observation, sound judgment, report writing, de-escalation, and dependable conduct.
Start Your Arizona Security Career with ASG
Arizona Security Group has provided professional security training since 2001. We offer in-person and online unarmed courses, in-person armed certification, and additional programs that can help you build practical skills for the security industry. Contact us to learn more!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. You may complete the required training independently before applying for security positions. Alternatively, a security company might pay for your training as part of the hiring process.
Some companies sponsor applicants and may pay for or arrange their training, fingerprinting, or application costs. However, they may also deduct these expenses from your first paychecks. Other employers expect applicants to arrive with their training already completed. Ask the employer what it provides before accepting a position.
Yes. You must complete the required 8-hour unarmed training before taking the 16-hour armed course. The armed course is an additional requirement, not a replacement for unarmed training.
No. Armed training requires in-person instruction, a written examination, and live-fire range qualification. Unarmed training may be available online or in person.
No. A Security Guard registration and an Arizona fingerprint clearance card are different credentials. Security Guard applicants must follow the fingerprinting instructions for AZDPS security licensing.
Arizona Security Guard registrations are generally issued for four years. Armed guards must also complete an 8-hour refresher course and requalify during every calendar year.
Submitting an application does not automatically authorize you to begin working as a registered guard. Wait for AZDPS approval and follow the instructions of your sponsoring agency. Limited exceptions may apply to qualifying recently discharged veterans under Arizona law.
No. Arizona does not treat an out-of-state Security Guard registration or firearms course as a substitute for its own licensing and training requirements. You must complete the Arizona process.
