How to become a security guard in Utah

Every Utah credential

All 3 individual credentials this regulator issues to security workers, from the entry-level card to specialty and instructor registrations.

Steps to get started

1. Complete the DOPL-approved 8-hour basic training course and pass its final exam (80%+).
2. Submit fingerprint cards for BCI and FBI background checks.
3. Apply to DOPL ($60 plus $32 in fingerprint search fees); an email address is required for all communication.
4. Complete the required continuing education each 2-year cycle and renew by November 30 of even years ($42).

Unarmed Private Security Officer License: No state licensing exam; the 8-hour basic course ends in a final exam passed at 80% (R156-63a-302c, -603). Neither Utah Code 58-63-302 nor R156-63a sets a minimum age for unarmed officers (18 applies to armed and armored car). 90-day interim permit once DOPL has a complete application (58-63-310). Carry a copy of the license on duty (58-63-308). Licenses expire November 30 of even-numbered years ($42 renewal); 32 hours CE per cycle, at least 16 core incl. CPR/AED/first aid; online CE counts only as professional hours (R156-63a-304). In-house guards of a company protecting only its own property are outside the act (R156-63a-102(5)). Out-of-state licensees may qualify by endorsement.

Working armed in Utah

Armed officers (18+) complete the 8-hour basic plus a 12-hour DOPL-approved firearms course, then 4 hours of firearms training every 6 months (16 hours per 2-year cycle) on top of the 32 hours of continuing education.

Armed Private Security Officer License: 18+ at application (R156-63a-302e). 8-hour basic course plus a DOPL-approved firearms course of at least 12 hours (6 classroom with an 80% exam, 6 range with a practical pistol course at 80% in regular and low light; R156-63a-604). Renewal: the same 32 hours CE as unarmed officers plus 16 hours of firearms training in 4-hour blocks every six months; a missed block costs 1.5x penalty hours (R156-63a-304). Exempt from the concealed firearm permit law only while working (58-63-307). An armed license also covers unarmed work (58-63-304).

Armored Car Security Officer: Separate DOPL classification under Utah Code 58-63 and Rule R156-63b for employees of licensed armored car companies. Requirements: DOPL-approved 8-hour basic course + 12-hour firearms course, fingerprint cards, age 18+ at application (R156-63b-302f). No state licensing exam (DOPL exam page); the basic course final exam is passed at 80% (R156-63b-302d). License expires Nov. 30 of even years. Renewal: 32 hours CE per 2-year cycle (>= 16 core incl. CPR/AED/first aid) PLUS 16 hours firearms training in 4-hour blocks every six months with 80% practical pistol requalification (R156-63b-304). Endorsement available for officers licensed in other states.

Keep your Utah credential alive

The free wallet computes your renewal deadline from Utah's rules and reminds you at 60, 30, and 7 days. Exam prep for Utah follows.