Are you considering a career in security and looking to become a licensed security guard in Georgia? Our comprehensive guide is here to walk you through the steps, requirements, and resources needed to kickstart your journey in the private security industry in the Peach State. From understanding the essential training and licensing procedures to exploring the responsibilities and opportunities awaiting security professionals, we've got you covered.
How Do You Become a Security Guard in Georgia?
To begin the process of becoming a security guard in Georgia, you’ll need to meet the basic requirements. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and be legally eligible to work in the United States. You’ll also need to undergo a criminal background check. Most states require a clean criminal record for licensing and Georgia is no exception.
What Training is Required to Become a GA Security Guard?
Beyond the basic requirements, you’ll also need to complete 24 hours of board approved instruction from an institution approved by the Georgia Board of Private Detectives and Security Agencies. The 24hr training course covers the role of a private security officer, patrol and observation, incident response, security resources, and basic emergency first aid. If you intend to become an armed security guard, you’ll need to be 21 years of age and receive your Weapons Carry License (WCL). This requires you to complete an additional 15 hours of firearms training in addition to the 24 hours of classroom instruction.
Learn more: Armed vs. Unarmed Security Guards: What’s The Difference? | Class D & Class G Security Guard License Explained
Do You Need a License to be a Security Guard in Georgia?
No, you do not need a special license or certificate in order to work as an unarmed security guard for a company in Georgia. However, armed security guards and individuals looking to operate their own security companies must register with the Georgia State Board of Private Detectives and Security Agencies which oversees the registration of security guards and private detectives in the state.
What Disqualifies You from Becoming a Security Guard in Georgia?
Several factors could disqualify an individual from becoming a security guard in Georgia, most which pertain to legal matters. The following are a few situations that could disqualify you from becoming a security guard in Georgia.
Criminal Record
If you have a criminal record, particularly one that involves violence, theft, fraud, or crimes of moral turpitude, that may disqualify you from becoming a security guard in Georgia. Felony convictions are often automatic disqualifiers, but misdemeanor convictions could also pose challenges depending on the nature of the offense and how long ago it occurred.
Drug Use
Recent or habitual drug use can also disqualify you from becoming a security guard, especially if it’s illegal drug use. Most security companies require applicants to pass a drug test as part of the hiring process.
False Information
Providing false information on the application or during the background check process can lead to automatic disqualification. Make sure to be totally honest and upfront when submitting your background check and application.
Mental or Physical Incapacity
Certain mental or physical conditions may disqualify you from working as a security guard in Georgia. These situations are typically at the discretion of the Georgia State Board of Private Detectives and Security Agencies and your employer.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Security Guard in Georgia?
The entire process of becoming a security guard in Georgia could take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on how quickly you complete the required training, the efficiency of the background check process, and the processing time for the license application.
Training Completion
Georgia security guards are required to complete at least 24 hours of training, and the timeline and pacing of the training can vary by institution. The training could take up to two weeks if completed in person. One way applicants can control the speed of the training is to find an on-demand course online. That way, the training can be completed on their own time and at their preferred pace.
Take the Georgia Security Unarmed Pre-Licensing Course online today →
Prospective armed security guards need to complete 15 additional hours of firearms training, which can extend the timeline since this training cannot be completed online.
Background Check Processing
After completing the training, applicants must undergo a criminal background check. The time it takes to process the background check can vary based on the workload of the agency conducting the check and the complexity of the applicant's background.
Application Processing
Once the background check is complete, applicants must submit their license application to the Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies. The processing time for license applications can vary, but applications are typically processed within 20 business days of receipt. Veterans, military service members, transitioning service members and military spouses, including the National Guard, may be eligible for an expedited application process.
Georgia Security Guard Exam
Though individual unarmed security guards in Georgia are not required to complete an exam, armed security guards and those wishing to operate as a security guard agency are expected to pass a state examination.
What to Expect on the Exam
The Georgia Security Agency Exam covers Georgia law as well as the rules of the Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies. Candidates will need a thorough understanding of both topics in order to pass. The firearms exam requires a range test where accuracy and responsiveness are key.
Where to Take the Exam
PSI is responsible for administering the Georgia Security Agency Exam. The exam schedule is set by PSI and generally held in testing centers in Atlanta, Macon, and Tifton.
Passing Scores
Those looking to open their own security guard agencies must pass the exam with a score of 75 percent or higher. If you’re applying to be an armed security guard, you must also pass a firearms test with a score of at least 80 percent in order to proceed.
How to Prepare for the Exam
You will need a complete understanding of Georgia laws and Board rules in order to pass the Georgia Security Agency Exam. No review material is provided by the Board, though you can take an exam prep course from a reputable instructor to greatly increase your chances of passing the exam.
Take the Georgia Security State Exam Prep Course from NITA →
What is the Average Salary of a Security Guard in Georgia?
Your salary as a security guard in Georgia can vary based on several factors, including your total years of experience, your location, whether you are qualified to carry firearms, and any specialties you may have. The type of security work you do and the employer you choose can also have an influence on your yearly salary as a security guard.
In general, the average salary for an unarmed Georgia security guard is $35,955, though it can range between $31,976 and $40,650. The salary of an armed security guard in Georgia is typically higher, with the average salary falling around $46,202 and ranging between $40,667 and $52,837.
Begin Your Security Career Today
A rewarding career as a Georgia security guard is right around the corner. Jumpstart your journey by partnering with NITA for all your training needs. Begin with our Georgia Security Unarmed Pre-Licensing Course and follow up with our Georgia Security State Exam Prep course so you’re completely prepared every step of the way. NITA is here to support you as you emerge into the security industry in Georgia.
You might also like:
Our enrollment counselors are here to answer any questions you might have about our state- and board-approved status, pre-licensing training, or professional development programs.
