Keeping your security license active is important if you want to stay on the job without any hiccups. It’s smart to check your expiry dates and set reminders months ahead to give you enough time to get through the renewal process. Remember that each state has its own renewal guidelines, so look into yours before you begin.

In this article, we’ll cover: 

• What a security license is and why you need to renew it
• General steps for renewing a license
• Steps for licenses from Level 1 to Level 5
• How Belfry can help

Let’s start by defining what a security license is.

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What is a security license?

A security license is what makes it legal for you to work in the industry. It proves you’ve completed the required training, passed background checks, and met the rules set by your state or region. Without it, you can’t legally work as a security guard or in other related jobs.

There are different types of security licenses, depending on what you do. You can get a private security license or a security officer license, of which there are five levels. 

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Why do I need to renew my security license? 

Renewing your license is more than just a formality. If your license expires, you could face fines or even lose your job until it’s renewed.

Keeping your license active also helps you stay competitive in the field. Most security jobs require a valid license, and letting yours lapse could mean missing out on opportunities. Employers want guards they can trust, and an up-to-date license shows you take your role seriously.

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General requirements for renewing a security license

When you’re renewing your license, you’ll need to meet a few requirements. These include:

• Age minimums: For level 1 and 2 licenses, you must be at least 18. For Levels 3, 4, and 5, you must be at least 21.
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• Citizenship: All license levels require you to be a legal US citizen or resident with work authorization.
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• Background checks and fingerprinting: These are usually required for all license levels. However, they become progressively stricter from Level 3 onwards. Level 5 often requires federal-level background screening, fingerprinting, and security clearance verification.
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• Proof of employment or agency affiliation: This isn’t always required for lower license levels. It’s not an unusual requirement for Level 4 licenses. If you have a Level 5 license, many states require that you be sponsored by a licensed security agency, military unit, or government entity.
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• Your documents: Prepare your current or expired security license, a valid government-issued ID, proof of completed training, and your firearm retraining (if applicable). Level 5 license holders should show proof of their completed specialized tactical training and tactical weapon qualification (if applicable).

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How to renew my security license: general steps

Renewing your security license is a simple process, but the exact steps depend on your state and license type. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Check your license type and expiration date: Most security licenses are valid for one to two years, so knowing when yours expires helps you avoid last-minute stress. Some states let you renew early, while others have strict deadlines. 
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2. Review your state’s renewal requirements: Every state has its own rules. Some require a background check and fingerprinting, and others focus more on training updates. Check the latest guidelines to make sure you’re following the right steps. For example, you can check how to renew your guard card in California.
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3. Complete any required training: Certain licenses, especially armed security certifications, require refresher courses or additional training before renewal. It’s best to get these done early so your renewal isn’t delayed.
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4. Submit your renewal application and fees: Many states allow online renewal, but some may require paperwork, so get ready to fill out a security renewal form. Double-check that you have the right documents and payment method to avoid any issues.
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5. Track your application status: Processing times can vary, so keep an eye on your renewal. If you don’t get confirmation before your license expires, follow up to make sure everything is on track.

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Level 1 and 2 security license renewal

A Level 1 security license is your entry ticket into the security industry. It’s the most basic license and lets you work in unarmed security roles. 

On the other hand, a Level 2 security license is a step up from Level 1. It’s usually required for security guards who take on more responsibility, like working in high-traffic areas or handling more complex security jobs.

You’ll usually see people with this license working as:

• Unarmed security guards at businesses, apartment complexes, or malls. Level 2 guards take on more responsibility at hospitals, corporate buildings, or gated communities.
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• Event security staff checking tickets or keeping crowds in order. Level 2 guards typically have more authority over crowd control and access points.
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• Loss prevention officers watching for shoplifters in retail stores.
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• Security supervisor managing Level 1 guards if you are a Level 2 license holder.

Your job might involve monitoring security systems, handling incident reports, checking IDs, or working closely with law enforcement when needed.

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Training and continuing education

Some states want you to take a refresher course before renewing your license. This usually covers:

• Conflict resolution and de-escalation (basically, how to calm down tense situations)
• Writing reports and documenting incidents
• Legal updates so you know what you can and can’t do
• Emergency response procedures

The amount of training you need depends on your state. 

For Level 1 licenses, some require as little as 4 hours, while others want up to 16. 

For Level 2 licenses, training will usually be anywhere from 8 to 16 hours, depending on the state you’re in. 

Some states require a short test on security procedures and legal knowledge, while others only need proof of training completion — so check the requirements in your state!

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Fees and costs

Renewal costs depend on where you live, but here’s a rough breakdown for Level 1:

• Application fee: $25 to $100 for Level 1, $50 to $150 for Level 2
• Training program (if required): $50 to $200 for Level 1, $75 to $250 for Level 2
• Other costs: You may also have to pay for a background check and fingerprinting at  $20 to $75, and a late penalty renewal at $10 to $50 for Level 1 and $25 to $100 on Level 2 (if applicable)

Try to renew at least 30–60 days before your license expires to avoid delays. Some states have grace periods, but working with an expired license can get you in trouble.

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Level 3 security license renewal

A Level 3 security license is for security professionals who take on more advanced jobs, often involving armed security or supervisory roles. 

With this license, you can work as a:

• Armed security guard at banks, government buildings, and high-risk sites
• Executive protection officer providing personal security for VIPs
• Security supervisor overseeing Level 1 and Level 2 guards
• Loss prevention specialist working in retail environments with more authority

Your job might include handling high-value assets, responding to threats, coordinating security teams, or working alongside law enforcement.

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Training and continuing education

Level 3 security professionals often need to complete refresher training before renewing their license. This training ensures you stay updated on legal changes, tactical procedures, and security best practices.

Training topics cover everything in Level 1 and 2, then:

• Firearm safety and requalification (if armed)
• Defensive tactics and use of force
• Advanced report writing and courtroom testimony preparation

The amount of training you need depends on your state:

• For unarmed Level 3 licenses, refresher training is typically 16 to 24 hours.
• For armed Level 3 licenses, expect 24 to 40 hours, which includes firearm requalification and shooting range assessments.

Some states require you to pass a written test or firearms proficiency test while others only need proof of training completion, so be sure to check your state’s specific rules.

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Fees and costs

Renewal costs for a Level 3 security license are higher than Level 1 and 2 due to extra training and background check requirements.

Here’s a rough breakdown:

• Application fee: $75 to $200
• Training program: $150 to $500
• Other costs: You may also have to pay for firearm requalification ($50 to $150), a background check and fingerprinting ($25 to $100), or a late renewal penalty if applicable ($50 to $150)

Try to renew early (at least 60–90 days prior to expiry) to avoid late fees or a lapse in your license. 

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Level 4 security license renewal

A Level 4 security license is the highest level of security certification, typically required for personal protection officers (PPOs) or executive protection agents. This license allows you to work in high-risk security jobs that involve close protection, escorting VIPs, and handling advanced threat scenarios.

With this license, you can work as a:

• Personal protection officer (PPO) providing bodyguard services for VIPs, executives, and high-profile individuals
• Executive protection specialist handling high-risk security details
• Security director or senior supervisor overseeing Level 1, 2, and 3 guards in corporate or high-security environments

Your job may include escorting clients, conducting security assessments, managing high-risk travel, and responding to immediate threats.

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Training and continuing education

Since Level 4 security professionals handle VIP protection and advanced security threats, most states require refresher training before renewal.

Level 4 training includes everything from previous levels, then:

• Advanced defensive tactics (close-quarters combat, evasive maneuvers)
• Firearm requalification (if carrying a weapon)
• Surveillance and counter-surveillance techniques
• Client safety planning and risk assessments

The required training hours depend on your state. Some states also require written tests or defensive tactic exams as part of the renewal process. 

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Fees and costs

Renewing a Level 4 security license is usually more expensive than lower levels due to extra training and background checks.

Here’s a rough breakdown:

• Application fee: $100 to $250
• Training program (if required): $200 to $600
• Other costs: You may have to pay for firearm requalification ($75 to $200), a background check and fingerprinting ($75 to $200), and a late renewal penalty if applicable ($50 to $200)

Try to renew 60-90 days before your license expires to avoid issues, as some states require additional processing time for Level 4 renewals.

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Level 5 security license renewal

A Level 5 security license is the highest certification available in the security industry, typically required for high-threat protection specialists and tactical security teams. 

This license is for elite security professionals who handle extreme-risk environments, specialized operations, and high-profile clients.

With this license, you can work as a:

• Private military contractor (PMC) providing security in conflict zones or high-risk areas
• High-threat executive protection specialist for government officials, corporate executives, or celebrities
• Tactical security officer for secure transport of high-value assets
• Specialized law enforcement contractor working alongside federal agencies or corporate security teams

Your job may include coordinating complex security operations, neutralizing high-level threats, and responding to critical incidents in unpredictable environments.

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Training and continuing education

Since Level 5 security professionals operate in high-risk environments, refresher training is mandatory in most states.

Training includes everything from Levels 1 to 4, then:

• Advanced firearms training (including precision shooting and combat tactics)
• Close-quarters combat (CQC) and hand-to-hand defense
• High-threat executive protection techniques
• Tactical driving and evasive maneuvers
• Counterterrorism and threat assessment
• Surveillance, intelligence gathering, and counter-surveillance
• Emergency medical response and combat trauma care

The amount of training you need depends on your state and employer. Most states and agencies require a written test, a physical fitness assessment, and a live firearms qualification exam as part of the renewal process.

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Fees and costs

Renewing a Level 5 security license is more expensive than other levels due to the specialized training and security screenings involved.

Here’s a rough breakdown:

• Application fee: $150 to $500
• Advanced tactical training programs: $500 to $2,500+
• Other costs: You may have to pay for firearm requalification ($100 to $300), a federal background check and fingerprinting ($75 to $250), and a late renewal penalty if applicable ($100 to $500)

Because Level 5 licenses require more security checks and evaluations, start the renewal process at least 90 days before your license expires.

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Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to renew my security license?

The cost depends on your license level and state. For Level 1, it’s usually $25 to $100, while Level 2 can be $50 to $150. Level 3 and 4 renewals can cost up to $250, especially if firearm training is involved, and Level 5 can go over $500. You might also have to pay for background checks and fingerprinting (or late fees if you wait too long).

What happens if I miss the renewal deadline for a specific level?

Some states give you a grace period of 30 to 90 days, but you can’t work until your renewal is approved. If you wait too long, you might have to redo training, resubmit fingerprints, or even start over. If you have a firearm certification (Levels 3–5), missing a deadline could mean losing your authorization to carry.

Are there penalties for working with an expired security license?

Yes, and they can be serious. You could get fined anywhere from $100 to over $1,000, and in some cases, your license could be suspended or permanently revoked. If your employer lets you work without a valid license, they could face penalties too. 

What is required to renew a guard card in California? 

In California, you need to renew your guard card every two years through BSIS. You’ll have to complete 32 hours of continuing education and learning what you can and can’t do, submit an online application, and pay a $40 renewal fee. If your guard card expires, there’s no late renewal option — you’ll have to start over.

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Belfry can help your team stay compliant

Licensing lapses aren’t just an issue for security guards, they can be a problem for security firm managers or owners too. If your guards forget to renew security licenses before they expire, that can mean consequences for you too. That’s why staying compliant is extra important — and that’s where Belfry can help.

Belfry is an all-in-one security management platform that lets you manage your operations from one place, reducing your administrative burden.

Here’s how:

• Easier compliance: Belfry allows you to input officer licenses and certifications so you can get timely renewal notifications.
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• Avoid understaffing: With automated scheduling, Belfry helps you to assign shifts based on site requirements, officer certifications, and training.
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• Simpler timekeeping and payroll: Belfry automates time and attendance tracking to ensure accurate payroll and ACA compliance. It also tracks overtime, timesheets, and labor expenses to make financial reporting easier.

Want to see how Belfry can improve not just your operations, but also your guards’ efficiency? Let our team show you the ins and outs of Belfry’s integrated dashboard. Book a demo today.