Thinking about a security job (or hiring new guards)? First, you need to know how old you have to be to become a security guard.

Most states set the minimum age at 18, but armed roles usually require 21. Check state laws first since some have extra rules. If you're hiring, you may want to plan ahead, since younger candidates might need extra training.

In this article, we’ll cover: 

• The minimum age to be a security guard
• Special age considerations for some roles
• What you need to know about hiring younger guards
• The best way for younger people to start security careers
• FAQ

Let’s start by talking about age minimums.

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How old do you have to be to become a security guard?

Most states require security guards to be at least 18 years old to work in unarmed positions. 

However, for armed security roles, the minimum age is often 21, since they typically handle more responsibilities. Some states also set higher age limits depending on the type of security work involved or the specific location, such as working in bars, casinos, or government buildings.

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Why age restrictions exist (legal & safety reasons)

Age limits exist because security guards handle real-world problems that require good judgment. Whether it's breaking up a fight, dealing with an upset customer, or calling in law enforcement, a guard needs to stay calm and make the right call. 

States set minimum ages to make sure guards have the maturity to handle tough situations, especially when it comes to de-escalating conflicts and responding to emergencies. 

Liability is also a big factor — hiring younger guards can come with higher risks for security companies and their insurance policies.

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Why do some states require security guards to be 21+?

Some states require all security guards to be at least 21, even for unarmed jobs. This usually applies in places where guards have more responsibility or work in high-risk areas, like hospitals, courthouses, or government buildings. 

In these roles, guards might deal with aggressive individuals, handle sensitive information, or work alongside law enforcement. Raising the age limit helps make sure these guards have the experience and judgment to stay professional under pressure.

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Security guard age requirements by state

Each state has its own rules about how old you need to be to work as a security guard. If you’re looking for the exact age requirement in your state, check out this guide to security guard license requirements.

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Special age considerations for certain roles

Not all security jobs follow the basic 18 or 21 rule. Some positions come with stricter age requirements due to liability, responsibility, or legal restrictions.

Let’s take a look at those positions.

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Armed security guards (usually 21+)

Carrying a firearm comes with added risks, so most states require armed security guards to be at least 21. 

On top of that, these roles demand extra training, background checks, and firearm licensing. Some states even have stricter laws for armed guards working in high-risk locations like banks, courthouses, or hospitals.

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Private vs. contract security (based on liability)

Security jobs fall into two main categories, which are:

• Private security: These guards work directly for a company, such as a retail store, corporate office, or hotel. Because private businesses set their own hiring rules, they may require guards to be older or have prior experience, especially for roles involving money handling or access control.
• Contract security: These companies hire guards to work for different clients, which means higher liability risks for the firm. Many contract security agencies prefer older guards (especially for jobs that involve VIP protection, valuable assets, or armed roles), since experience and maturity can reduce legal risks.

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Event and nightclub security

Security jobs in bars, nightclubs, and concert venues often come with higher age limits — sometimes 21 or even 25. These are:

• Nightclub security: Many bars and clubs require bouncers and security staff to be at least 21 or older since they need to check IDs, handle intoxicated customers, and enforce liquor laws.
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• Concert and festival security: Large-scale events often prefer experienced security personnel because these roles involve crowd control, de-escalating conflicts, and handling emergencies in fast-paced environments. Some venues set a minimum age of 21 or 25 for security staff.

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Federal and high-security jobs

Security roles in government buildings, military bases, or sensitive facilities often require guards to be 21 or older, sometimes even over 25. These positions also require extensive background checks, security clearances, and specialized training.

Additionally, jobs involving classified information, law enforcement coordination, or handling high-risk individuals tend to require older, more experienced candidates, often with a military or law enforcement background.

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For employers: what to know about hiring younger security guards 

Hiring younger security guards can be a great way to bring in motivated, trainable employees, but there are a few things to keep in mind. These include:

• Understanding labor laws: Before hiring younger guards, make sure you understand the labor laws in your state so you can stay in compliance.
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• Knowing training and certification requirements: Younger guards often lack experience, so proper training is key. Some states require a security license or guard card, even for unarmed positions. As an employer, you should focus on state-mandated training, on-the-job training, and soft skills' development.
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• Insurance liabilities and concerns: Hiring younger guards may increase liability risks, both for workplace incidents and insurance costs. You should know that many insurance providers charge higher premiums for companies employing younger, less-experienced security staff.

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What’s the best way for young people to start a security career?

If you’re on the younger side, and you want to become a security guard, here are a few tips:

• Get a Guard Card: Many states require a security license, often called a Guard Card, before you can start working. This involves taking a state-approved training course, passing a background check, and submitting an application. 
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• Take recommended training courses: Even if a Guard Card isn’t required, extra training makes you stand out. Courses in basic security procedures, conflict de-escalation, first aid/CPR, and customer service can help you get hired faster.
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• Apply for entry-level security jobs: Look for roles that don’t require experience, like retail security, corporate security, residential patrol, and event security. These jobs help build experience and prepare you for higher-paying positions later.
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• Highlight transferable skills: If you don’t have security experience, show employers other relevant skills. Customer service, volunteer work, military cadet programs, or experience in team leadership can demonstrate responsibility and professionalism.
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• Gain experience and move up: After a year or two in an entry-level job, you can qualify for better-paying roles like armed security, executive protection, or high-security government positions. Adding specialized certifications can also help advance your career.

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Frequently Asked Questions 

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Can a 17-year-old work as a security guard with parental permission?

In most states, the minimum age for security guards is 18, and parental permission does not override state labor laws. Some exceptions may exist for cadet programs or internships, but these usually don’t allow full security duties.

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Can someone under 21 become an armed security guard?

A few states, like Virginia and Arizona, allow 18-year-olds to become armed guards under specific conditions, such as additional training or military background.

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Do age requirements change for contract vs. proprietary security?

Yes, private companies that hire their own security (proprietary security) can set their own age requirements, which may be higher than state minimums. Contract security companies typically follow state laws but may have stricter age policies based on liability and insurance concerns.

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Manage your security guard teams more easily with Belfry

We’ve answered how old you have to be to be a security guard. We’ve even explored the various age minimums by state, along with any special considerations. Now, let’s look at how Belfry can help you manage your security teams with ease.

Belfry is an all-in-one security management platform that helps make it easier for you to get a handle on your security operations.

Here’s how:

• Reduce downtime: Belfry’s automated scheduling makes it easy to assign shifts based on guards’ training and the location’s needs. Reduce over and understaffing and minimize gaps in security coverage.
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• Manage license compliance: The Belfry integrated dashboard allows you to input your guards’ licenses and certifications so you can get notified when they’re up for renewal.
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• Simplified incident reporting: Belfry’s mobile app allows your guards to send their incident reports instantly, using a detailed form and with evidence attachments. This simplicity is beneficial for both parties, saving a lot of time and avoiding the hassle of paper.
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• Instant communication: Use the Belfry mobile app’s instant messaging features to communicate with your guards and dispatchers.
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• Improve accountability: Belfry has GPS tracking features that let you see if your guards are where they should be during their shifts. Geofencing alerts notify you if they leave their posts.

Want to see how Belfry can make your operations more efficient? Let our team show you how Belfry’s features can streamline your operations so you can focus on what matters.

Schedule a demo today.