An overview on the process to get your Arizona Security Guard Card
The process to get your Arizona security guard card, either armed or unarmed is pretty straight forward. You will find the process on what’s needed to get it on this page.
We recommend that you file a paper application. This process involves either delivering your application to DPS in person or mailing it to them. We’ll describe the full process below.
In Arizona, there are two types of security guard cards: unarmed and armed.
To work as a contracted security guard, that is, to work for a security guard and patrol company, you must be licensed. To get that license, you must take a mandatory training class for your unarmed license. It’s 8 hours in length and can be taken online or in person.
For those looking to become an armed security guard, you must take an additional class. This is the 16-hour armed security guard course. It’s two, eight-hour days and includes a live fire range qualification and written test. The armed course cannot be taken online.
Unarmed training must be completed prior to taking the armed course. You do not need to have your paperwork submitted, but you must have completed the unarmed training and have your training verification form to show it.
There are requirements and disqualifiers that DPS has in place when applying for the security license. These include the candidate being at least 18 years of age, a citizen of the U.S. or legal resident, and no felonies within the last 5 years. You can find all of the preclusions in A.R.S. 32-2622.
The process on getting the security guard card(s) for Arizona is outlined below.
General information to keep in mind about the guard card process.
Guard cards are issued for a period of 2 years and guards should start the renewal process 60 days prior to expiration to ensure there is no gap in time.
The armed course is not a “learn how to shoot” class, as it’s designed to qualify only. Guards will have to demonstrate proficiency on the range.
All armed guards are required to take the annual refresher training course each calendar year. It includes a written test and range qualification.
Arizona DPS has established certain requirements and disqualifiers for getting your guard card. Below is an outline of what’s required, and what will disqualify you from getting your security license in Arizona.
We cannot offer legal advice nor say if DPS will allow you to get your guard card if you have something in your background. You can call DPS and discuss your situation directly with them as we have no bearing on your application’s disqualifications. On the guard card registration application form there is space to provide additional information, and we always suggest you give them as much info as possible, and include any copies of supporting paperwork you may have.
No convictions in the last 5 years of any of the following:
This is the general overview to get your guard card.
Unarmed first, armed second (optional)
Fill out all the paperwork
Get your fingerprints taken
Get a passport-sized photo printed of you
Get a cashiers check or money order
Mail or drop off your packet to AZ DPS
Unarmed guard card classes are offered both online and in-person (ground). Armed classes are in-person only. Check our schedule for dates and times. You can also read more about these specific courses below.
AZSG offers prints and photos to students for $20. You can select the option when registering for a ground class. Those students that take the unarmed guard course online can set an appointment with us to have them completed.
We use FBI-approved equipment and standards to print your cards on the standard FBI form to submit to AZ DPS.
If you are unable to get your prints done with us, we have a list of approved locations around the valley that DPS authorizes. Each one of these locations will require an appointment, so please contact them prior to arrival.
Also note, we do not control the cost of fingerprinting at third-party locations. We are not affiliated with these locations.
There may be additional locations around the valley, please visit the AZ DPS website to find out if there is a location closer to you than what we have listed here.
480-820-2298
3150 N. Alma School Rd, Ste 7
Chandler, AZ 85224
M-F 8am-12pm & 1pm-5pm
623-972-2000
13660 N. 94th Drive, Suite A-4
Peoria, AZ 85381
M-F 8am-12pm & 1pm-5pm
602-242-4125
501 W. Van Buren St, Ste L
Avondale, AZ 85323
M-F 8am-12pm & 1pm-5pm
AZSG offers prints and photos to students for $15. You can select the option when registering for a ground class. Those students that take the unarmed guard course online can set an appointment with us to have them completed.
We use FBI-approved equipment and standards to print your cards on the standard FBI form to submit to AZ DPS.
If you are unable to get your prints done with us, we have a list of approved locations around the valley that DPS authorizes. Each one of these locations will require an appointment, so please contact them prior to arrival.
Also note, we do not control the cost of fingerprinting at third-party locations. We are not affiliated with these locations.
There may be additional locations around the valley, please visit the AZ DPS website to find out if there is a location closer to you than what we have listed here.
480-820-2298
3150 N. Alma School Rd, Ste 7
Chandler, AZ 85224
M-F 8am-12pm & 1pm-5pm
623-972-2000
13660 N. 94th Drive, Suite A-4
Peoria, AZ 85381
M-F 8am-12pm & 1pm-5pm
602-242-4125
501 W. Van Buren St, Ste L
Avondale, AZ 85323
M-F 8am-12pm & 1pm-5pm
You can get a passport-size photo taken at any Walgreens Photo center, you only need to send one to DPS
The cost of training courses and classes does not include the actual cost of the license. DPS still requires the license fee to be paid prior to issuing the license, and the student submits their payment to DPS with their packet. These pricing fees are effective as of January 1st, 2025.
The costs for new vs. renew are the same for each type of license. If your license is expired, your application will be treated as new.
The upgrade to armed is for those with an issued and valid unarmed security guard card. Upgrading to armed only costs $50, but whatever date your unarmed card expires, your armed will also expire.
Unarmed Guard New and Renew
Armed Guard New and Renew
Armed Upgrade From Valid Unarmed
Armed Refresher Annual Requalification
Once your training and paperwork are complete, you will need to send it to AZ DPS. If you are hand-delivering it, their physical address is where you want to go. If you are mailing it, be sure to use the mailing address to ensure it gets to where it needs to be. Give them a call to determine if they are open for in-person drop-off or not.
Street Address
2222 W. Encanto Blvd.
Phoenix, AZ 85009
Mailing Address
Arizona Department of Public Safety
Licensing Unit
P.O. Box 6328 MD 3140
Phoenix, AZ 85005
Website
https://www.azdps.gov/content/basic-page/109
Email Address
licensing@azdps.gov
Hours of Operation
Monday – Friday: 8am – 5pm
The office is closed on weekends and all state holidays
Phone & Fax
Phone: 602-223-2361
Fax: 602-223-2938
This is the actual application form. Make sure your completely fill it out, and check yes or no on each box. Don’t forget to sign and date it.
This form proves you’ve completed the required training. All you need to do is fill out part A. If you don’t have a guard card, you can leave the Registration Number blank.
Your complete set of fingerprints on the FBI card and your passport size photo need to be in the packet.
A photo copy of a valid, government issued photo I.D. needs to be included. This can be an I.D. card, drivers license, passport or military I.D.
The licensing fee needs to be included. The total is based on what card you are getting, unarmed or armed. Make it payable to AZ DPS. Be sure to completely fill out all information on it.
If you are a veteran, you need to include a copy of your DD214 or your NGB22 if you have it.
CHECK THE STATUS OF YOUR LICENSE ON THE DPS LICENSING UNIT WEBSITE
Since 2001, Arizona Security Group has been a leading provider of security guard training in Arizona, offering state-approved courses for both armed and unarmed security professionals. Our expert instructors provide comprehensive instruction in security officer training, guard card certification, and specialized programs to help you excel in the security industry. Whether you’re looking to start a new career or advance your skills, Arizona Security Group is your trusted partner in professional security training.
AZ DPS License 1564220
