How to become a security guard in Tennessee

Register as an Unarmed Security Guard/Officer — TN Dept of Commerce & Insurance, Private Protective Services

TN requires this individual registration in addition to working for (or serving as qualifying agent of) a licensed Contract Security Company.

1. 1Confirm eligibilityBe at least 18; prepare 3 passport-style photos and consent to a fingerprint-based TBI/FBI background check.
2. 2Complete the PPS applicationDownload/complete the Unarmed Security Guard application from the TN Dept of Commerce & Insurance Private Protective Services program.
3. 3Submit fingerprints and feesSubmit fingerprints for the background check and pay the $50 application + $20 registration fee.
4. 4Receive your registration cardProcessing typically takes 4-6 weeks; carry the card while on duty and renew every 2 years.

Add an Armed Security Guard registration (firearms endorsement) — TN PPS

1. 1Hold or apply for the unarmed base registrationThe armed card is an add-on to the Unarmed Security Guard/Officer registration.
2. 2Complete 8hr firearms + marksmanship trainingThrough a PPS-approved trainer, per Tenn. Code §62-35-118.
3. 3Submit the armed application and feesFile with TN Commerce & Insurance PPS; pay the $75 application + $30 registration fee.
4. 4Requalify every 2 years4hr refresher training plus a marksmanship requalification to keep the armed registration current.

License your own Contract Security Company (self-employed / sole-proprietor route) — TN PPS

This is TN's self-employed/sole-trader route into the security business — a solo operator can hold the Contract Security Company license as their own qualifying agent.

1. 1Decide your qualifying-agent structureA sole proprietor may hold the Contract Security Company license personally as their own qualifying agent.
2. 2File the CSC applicationApply through the CORE online licensing portal (core.tn.gov), listing the principal place of business and any branch offices.
3. 3Disclose background historyList all felony/misdemeanor convictions and pending charges for the applicant/qualifying agent (and corporate officers, if applicable).
4. 4Provide proof of insuranceSubmit a Certificate of Insurance showing the required $300k/$100k general liability coverage before the license is issued.