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State license required

How to become a security guard in Delaware

Last reviewed August 28, 2026 · Regulator: Delaware State Police — Professional Licensing Section

Delaware licenses guards through the State Police Professional Licensing Section. Applicants complete a mandatory 16-hour training program and pass a proctored state exam (75% minimum) at a Delaware Tech campus.

At a glance

CredentialTrainingExamRenewal
Security Guard License
$105 application
16 hoursYesEvery 5 years
Armed Security Guard (Red Card)
$105 + firearms course fees
40 hoursYesEvery year

Steps to get started

  1. Complete the mandatory training program through a board-approved facility or licensed agency.
  2. Pass the state exam (75%+) administered at a Delaware Technical Community College campus.
  3. Complete fingerprinting and photo ID processing through IdentoGO and apply with the $105 fee.
  4. Begin renewal at least two months before the 5-year expiration — it includes retraining and retesting.

Security Guard License: Renewal every 5 years repeats the retraining and retesting process.

Working armed in Delaware

Armed guards (21+) complete a 40-hour firearms course with daylight and low-light certification; the firearms Red Card must be requalified each calendar year.

Armed Security Guard (Red Card): 40-hour firearms course including daylight and low-light qualification; the Red Card is valid through the end of the calendar year.

Sources

tessura is an independent study and career tool, not affiliated with any state agency. Rules change — always confirm current requirements with the regulator before relying on them.

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