How to become a security guard in Oregon
Here's exactly what Oregon requires, and the official portal to apply. Finish it and you can start getting booked on XGuard.
Get certified as an Oregon DPSST Unarmed Security Professional
A DPSST certification lets you work as an unarmed professional without an employer, but Oregon rule (OAR 259-060-0015(1)(c)) says you cannot independently CONTRACT for security work unless you're also licensed as an Executive Manager — see the agency track for the self-employed route. A one-person sole owner is exempt from the separate Entity License.
- 1Meet eligibilityBe at least 18 and hold a GED, high school diploma, or higher credential; meet DPSST background standards.
- 2Complete the 14-hour basic courseComplete the 14-hour DPSST unarmed basic classroom instruction, exam, and assessments with a certified Private Security Instructor.
- 3Submit fingerprintsSubmit fingerprints for a DPSST background check.
- 4File your Training AffidavitYour instructor completes a Training Affidavit (PS-6); pay the $139 in current DPSST fees to receive your Unarmed Professional certification.
Add Oregon DPSST Armed Professional certification
Requalification is annual, not one-time — armed status lapses without it.
- 1Hold or co-complete the unarmed courseComplete the 14-hour unarmed basic course if you haven't already.
- 2Complete the 24-hour firearms courseComplete the DPSST 24-hour armed professional firearms course using a firearm matching the make, model, and caliber you'll carry on duty (ORS 181A.906).
- 3Pass qualificationPass the DPSST firearms qualification course of fire.
- 4Pay fees and file paperworkPay the $155 in DPSST fees; your instructor files the Training Affidavit (PS-6). Concealed carry on the job additionally requires a CHL.
License your Oregon private security entity (solo owners may be exempt)
This is the business/company track; a genuine solo operator may not need the Entity License itself but still needs Executive Manager licensing to contract independently.
- 1Check the sole-owner exemptionA one-person sole owner is exempt from the Entity License requirement under OAR 259-059-0020(4)(d).
- 2Get licensed as an Executive ManagerIf you want to independently contract for security work (not just hold a certification), you need an Executive Manager license, per OAR 259-060-0015(1)(c).
- 3Apply for the Entity License if neededIf you're not exempt (e.g., you'll employ other certified professionals), apply for the DPSST Private Security Entity License and carry $1M/$2M general liability insurance.
- 4Maintain and renewKeep entity records current with DPSST and renew on the required cycle.
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.