State license required
How to become a security guard in Illinois
Last reviewed August 28, 2026 · Regulator: Illinois Dept. of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)
Illinois requires a Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC) from IDFPR, plus 20 hours of basic security training delivered by a licensed agency or approved instructor after registration.
At a glance
Steps to get started
- Apply to IDFPR for the PERC with photo ID, fingerprints, and the $55 fee.
- Complete the 20-hour basic security training through your employing agency or an approved instructor.
- For armed work, obtain the Firearm Control Card with required firearms training and qualification.
- Keep the PERC current on its 3-year renewal cycle.
Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC): The PERC comes first (fingerprints + background); the 20-hour basic training follows through the employing agency.
Working armed in Illinois
Armed guards (21+) need a Firearm Control Card on top of the PERC: FBI fingerprints, firearms training, range qualification within a year before each renewal, and continued employment with the issuing agency.
Firearm Control Card (Armed): Requires age 21+, a valid FOID card, firearms training covering use of force and range qualification, and annual requalification within 1 year before renewal.
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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