State license required

How to become a security guard in Montana

Last reviewed August 28, 2026 · Regulator: Montana Dept. of Labor & Industry — Private Security Program

Montana licenses individual private security guards through the Department of Labor & Industry. Guards must complete 16 hours of certified training across nine prescribed subject areas before performing any guard duties (ARM 24.182.807).

At a glance

Credential	Training	Exam	Renewal
Private Security Guard License $80 application; renewal window runs Jan 1 – Mar 1	16 hours	No	Every year
Armed Security Guard Endorsement $50 endorsement fee + firearms course fees	Varies	No	Every year

Steps to get started

Get hired by a licensed Montana private security firm (employment verification is part of licensure).
Complete 16 hours of certified training across the nine required subject areas before working.
Submit fingerprints for Montana DOJ and FBI background checks with the $80 application.
Renew annually during the January 1 – March 1 window.

Private Security Guard License: Employer-internal procedures may not count toward the 16 hours. Sources conflict on whether an 8-hour annual refresher still applies — confirm with the department.

Working armed in Montana

Armed guards add a $50 endorsement, firearms training from a board-certified instructor, and a shooting proficiency test with the firearm(s) they will carry on duty.

Armed Security Guard Endorsement: Requires a firearms program taught by a board-certified instructor and a shooting proficiency test with each duty firearm.

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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