← All states
How to become a security guard in New York
Here's exactly what New York requires, and the official portal to apply. Finish it and you can start getting booked on XGuard.
Guard license
New York Security Guard Registration
Training8-hr pre-assignment + 16-hr OJT
Cost$138 (incl. $102 fingerprint)
Min age18
ExamNone
Renews2 years
- 1Complete the 8-hour Pre-Assignment courseThrough a NYS DOS-approved school.
- 2Submit fingerprints (IDEMIA) + application$36 application + $102 fingerprint fee.
- 3Get hired and finish 16-hour On-the-Job training
- 4Receive your registration cardValid 2 years; 8-hr annual in-service after.
Armed / firearmOpen the official portal
New York Armed Guard registration
Training+47-hr firearms course
Cost$138 + tuition
Min age18
ExamNone
Renews2 years (8-hr annual in-service)
Agency / masterOpen the official portal
New York Watch, Guard or Patrol Agency
Training—
Cost$403–503 + $10k bond + $100k/$300k insurance
Min age25
Exam$15 walk-in exam
Renews2 years
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.