How to become a security guard in Iowa
Here's exactly what Iowa requires, and the official portal to apply. Finish it and you can start getting booked on XGuard.
Iowa Security Guard Employee ID Card
You can't apply for this directly as an individual — it's issued through your employing agency, not the state DPS on your own behalf.
- 1Get hired by a licensed agencyIowa guards must work for a DPS-licensed private security agency (in-house/proprietary guards are exempt, §80A.2(3)).
- 2Meet eligibility standardsBe 18+, of good moral character, with no disqualifying felony or aggravated-misdemeanor convictions.
- 3Have your employer file your ID card applicationYour agency submits your Employee ID Card request through the DPS licensing portal; a 14-day temporary card covers you while it processes.
Iowa Professional Permit to Carry Weapons (Security)
A general armed-carry permit justified by security employment (§724.6), not a separate 'armed guard' license — issued alongside your Ch.80A employment and agency ID card.
- 1Get your employer's authorizationYour Ch.80A-licensed private security/investigation employer signs off that your job reasonably justifies carrying.
- 2Apply through your county sheriffFile the professional permit application with the sheriff where you reside (or the DPS Commissioner if nonresident).
- 3Wait for approvalThe sheriff or Commissioner must approve or deny within 30 days.
Iowa Private Security Agency License
This is Iowa's sole-trader route — an individual may hold the agency license directly in their own name; purely in-house/proprietary guard operations are exempt from licensure.
- 1Create a DPS licensing portal accountRegister on the Iowa DPS ImageTrend licensing portal.
- 2File a Start Your Own Company applicationSubmitted by the individual who will act as the agency licensee, to create your agency record in the system.
- 3Complete the full PD1 license applicationUpload a photo, fingerprints, and proof of financial responsibility (general liability insurance).
- 4Post your surety bond (PD6)$5,000 for a single license type, $10,000 if licensed for multiple (security + investigation + bail enforcement).
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.