How to become a security guard in Utah

Get an Unarmed Private Security Officer license — Utah DOPL

Utah statute defines a security officer as employed by a licensed contract security company; DOPL issues the individual license, and BCI only performs the background check.

1. 1Complete 8hr basic trainingTake a DOPL-approved basic training course and pass the course exam; obtain the completion certificate.
2. 2Gather ID and background documentsHave a valid US state/territory ID ready and consent to a DPS BCI + FBI fingerprint background check.
3. 3Submit the application and feeFile with DOPL and pay the $100 application fee.
4. 4Receive your licenseOnce approved, the license is valid for 2 years.

Upgrade to an Armed Private Security Officer license — Utah DOPL

1. 1Hold or apply for the unarmed base licenseThe armed license builds on the Unarmed Private Security Officer license.
2. 2Complete the 12hr firearms course6hr classroom instruction + 6hr range instruction through a DOPL-approved provider.
3. 3Pass the exam and qualificationPass the final written exam and the practical pistol course (≥80%).
4. 4Submit the armed applicationFile with DOPL and pay the $100 fee; renew every 2 years with continuing firearms education.

License your own Contract Security Company (self-employed route) — Utah DOPL

This is Utah's sole-trader route into the security business — a solo operator can qualify as their own qualifying agent for a Contract Security Company license.

1. 1Qualify as the owner-operatorBe a Utah resident and corporate officer/owner with 6,000 hours of compensated experience as a manager, supervisor, or administrator of a contract security (or armored car) company.
2. 2Pass the Qualifying Agent ExamRequired before licensure; the qualifying agent must exercise day-to-day authority over the business.
3. 3Submit fingerprintsRequired for each qualifier and owner who does not already hold an active Security Officer license.
4. 4Provide insurance proofSubmit a General Liability Insurance Certificate and proof of Workers' Compensation coverage.