State license required
How to become a security guard in South Carolina
Last reviewed August 28, 2026 · Regulator: South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED)
South Carolina registers security officers through SLED. Unarmed officers complete a SLED-approved basic course (at least 4 hours) plus 2 hours of company-specific orientation from a certified training officer; registration renews annually.
At a glance
Steps to get started
- Get hired by a SLED-licensed security company.
- Complete the SLED-approved basic course (4+ hours) plus 2 hours of company orientation.
- Complete IdentoGO fingerprinting within 30 days of application and pass the drug test ($65 unarmed / $110 armed).
- Renew annually, submitting 60–30 days before expiration.
Security Officer Registration (Unarmed): Plus at least 2 hours of company-specific orientation. Renewal window: 60 to 30 days before expiration. A SLED-approved pre-employment drug test is required.
Working armed in South Carolina
Armed officers (21+) complete SLED-approved firearms training covering use-of-force law and liability, and must qualify with — and carry — the exact firearm used in qualification.
Armed Security Officer Registration: Adds SLED-approved firearms training with proficiency qualification; officers must carry the same make, model, and caliber used in qualification. Must be 21+.
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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