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How to become a security guard in Kentucky

Kentucky has no state license for security guards, armed or unarmed; employers set hiring and training standards. Louisville Metro (Jefferson County) licenses armed security officers and the agencies and companies that employ them. Unarmed guards need no Metro license.

KY

Reviewed September 27, 2026

The path

  1. NoneState licenseNo statewide scheme; a city or county may still require a permit.
  2. LocalCheck city and county rulesLouisville Metro Alcoholic Beverage Control licenses armed guards under Metro Code chapter 124. Some other cities, such as Elizabethtown, permit the security business rather than the guard. Check the city where you'll work.
  3. WorkEmployer sets the standard

Steps to get started

  1. Meet your employer's hiring requirements; unarmed work needs no state or Louisville license.
  2. For armed work in Louisville, get a signed intent to hire from a licensed agency or registered company and complete an approved course.
  3. If you live in Kentucky, get a CCDW license through your county sheriff or online with the Kentucky State Police.
  4. Apply to Louisville Metro Alcoholic Beverage Control with the application, intent to hire, criminal records, CCDW proof and affidavit.

Working armed in Kentucky

In Louisville Metro, armed guards need a Metro armed security officer license: 21 or older, a U.S. citizen, an approved course with a written exam and range qualification, and a job with a licensed agency or registered company. Kentucky residents must also hold a CCDW license from the Kentucky State Police (LMCO 124.05).

Local rules to know

Louisville Metro Alcoholic Beverage Control licenses armed guards under Metro Code chapter 124. Some other cities, such as Elizabethtown, permit the security business rather than the guard. Check the city where you'll work.

What guards earn in Kentucky

A median of $17.03 an hour across 13,580 security guards, from official BLS wage data.

Security guard pay in Kentucky →

Hiring a guard rather than becoming one?

The same rules read from the other side: what to ask a guard and a security company for in Kentucky, and the steps to confirm it in the regulator's own records.

How to check a licence in Kentucky →

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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