How to become a security guard in Illinois
Here's exactly what Illinois requires, and the official portal to apply. Finish it and you can start getting booked on XGuard.
Illinois PERC Card (Unarmed Security Guard)
IDFPR Security Professions hub (PERC card); idfpr.illinois.gov bot-blocks our IP.
- 1Complete the 20-hour basic training courseTake an IDFPR-approved basic security training course.
- 2Get fingerprintedSubmit electronic fingerprints for your IDFPR background check (ink prints no longer accepted).
- 3File your PERC applicationSubmit your application, training certificate, and $55 fee to IDFPR.
- 4Get hired by a licensed agencyPERC holders work as registered employees of a licensed Private Security Contractor Agency.
Illinois Firearm Control Card (Armed Security)
Same IDFPR hub covers the Firearm Control Card.
- 1Hold an active PERC and FOID cardYou need a valid PERC plus a Firearm Owner's Identification card (issued separately by Illinois State Police) before applying.
- 2Complete 48 hours of approved firearms trainingFinish training within 2 years of your Firearm Control Card application.
- 3Submit your Firearm Control Card applicationFile with IDFPR along with fingerprinting through an approved vendor.
Illinois Private Security Contractor Agency License
This is Illinois' self-employed/sole-trader route (§25-15). There's a solo assumed-name nuance under §10-5(a) whose exact scope needs review — confirm your specific filing path with IDFPR.
- 1Get licensed as a private security contractorIndividuals need roughly 3 years of qualifying industry experience (2 years' credit with a relevant bachelor's degree).
- 2Serve as your agency's licensee-in-chargeThe agency must have a full-time Illinois-licensed private security contractor overseeing it — this can be you as a sole proprietor.
- 3Carry commercial general liability insuranceInsurance must be in the name of the individual license holder.
- 4Apply through IDFPR's CORE systemFile your Private Security Contractor Agency application online.
Once you're licensed
Create your free XGuard profile now — upload your license the moment you have it, and we'll verify it and start matching you to paid security work near you.
Start your XGuard profileXGuard guides you to the official process; the state issues your license. Figures are sourced from official regulators and verified before publishing, but requirements can change — always confirm on the official portal linked above.