HowToGetLicensed

Security Guard License: Texas vs Illinois

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

Requirement Texas Illinois
Education Hours 6 hours 20 hours
Exam Texas Level II Security Officer Exam Illinois PERC Card Exam
Application Fee $35 $55
Exam Fee $0 $0
Total Estimated Cost $500 - $750 $500 - $850
Renewal Period Every 2 years Every 3 years
CE Hours 6 hours 8 hours
Renewal Fee $35 $55

Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?

Lower cost: Texas is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $500-$750 compared to $500-$850.

Fewer education hours: Texas requires 6 hours of pre-license education, compared to 20 hours in Illinois.

Full State Guides

Compare security guard requirements across all 50 states →