HowToGetLicensed

Security Guard License: Pennsylvania vs Ohio

Thinking about getting your security guard license? Here's how Pennsylvania and Ohio compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.

Requirement Pennsylvania Ohio
Education Hours 40 hours 20 hours
Exam Pennsylvania Lethal Weapons Training Act Exam Ohio Security Guard Basic Training Exam
Application Fee $45 $50
Exam Fee $0 $0
Total Estimated Cost $500 - $900 $500 - $850
Renewal Period Every 5 years Every 2 years
CE Hours 8 hours 4 hours
Renewal Fee $45 $50

Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?

Lower cost: Ohio is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $500-$850 compared to $500-$900.

Fewer education hours: Ohio requires 20 hours of pre-license education, compared to 40 hours in Pennsylvania.

Full State Guides

Compare security guard requirements across all 50 states →