INTRO
To get a security guard license in Tennessee, you must meet eligibility requirements, complete state-approved training, submit electronic fingerprints, and apply through the TDCI CORE portal. Unarmed applicants can begin working with proof of submission. Armed applicants must wait for the physical card but may work unarmed assignments while they await delivery. Alliance Training & Testing provides the required training and a free step-by-step guide.
STEP 1 - CONFIRM ELIGIBILITY
You must:
- Be at least 18 (unarmed) or 21 (armed)
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident alien
- Have good moral character (no disqualifying felonies or certain misdemeanors within the past 5 years)
- Not be declared incompetent by a court (unless restored)
- Not suffer from chronic drunkenness or narcotics addiction
- Meet physical and mental fitness standards
Full disqualifying offenses are listed on the official Private Protective Services page.
STEP 2 - Complete State-Approved Training
- Unarmed: 4-hour General Training (online or in-person)
- Armed: 16-hour course (4 hours general + 12 hours firearms)
- Dallas Law (required for alcohol establishments): Additional certification
Alliance offers all required courses.
STEP 3 - Gather Required Documents
- Training certificate
- Electronic fingerprint receipt
- Photo ID / Driver’s license
- Passport-style photo
- Criminal records or DD-214 (if applicable)
STEP 4 - Schedule Electronic Fingerprinting
Use the official Identigo/digital fingerprinting system.
Select Department of Commerce and Insurance
→ Armed or Unarmed Guards.
STEP 5 - Submit Application via TDCI CORE Portal
Create a CORE account
→ Select Private Protective Services
→ Upload documents
→ Pay the state fee ($95 unarmed / $130 armed as of 2026).
STEP 6 - Begin Working (Unarmed)
Unarmed applicants may work using a copy of the CORE proof of submission for up to 75 business days while the application is processed. Armed applicants must wait for the physical registration card.
Total Estimated Cost (2026)
- Training: $60–$160 depending on course
- Fingerprint processing: varies by provider
- State application fee: $95 (unarmed) or $130 (armed)
- Most students complete the process for approximately $190–$230 total for unarmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a Tennessee security guard license?
Training can be finished in one day (online) or two days (armed). After submission, processing times vary; unarmed applicants can work while pending (up to 75 business days).
Can I work while my application is pending?
Yes for unarmed (with CORE proof of submission). No for armed — you must wait for the card.
Do I need a separate unarmed license if I already have an armed license?
No. An armed registration covers both roles.
How often do I renew?
Every two years. Unarmed requires a 2-hour refresher; armed requires a 4-hour refresher plus firearm requalification.
Where can I get the required training?
Alliance Training & Testing — 100% online for unarmed/Dallas Law, or in-person at Royal Range USA in Nashville.
