How to Get a Security Guard License in Illinois
Last updated: March 2, 2026
Quick Facts
Education
20 hrs
Total Cost
$675
Governing Body
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
Illinois is a diverse market anchored by Chicago, one of the largest metropolitan areas in the US, making it an excellent place to start a career as a security guard. Licensing in Illinois is overseen by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. The process requires 20 hours of pre-license education and costs between $500 and $850 in total. You'll need to pass the Illinois PERC Card Exam (administered by Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation) with a score of at least 70%.
Illinois requires just 20 hours of pre-license education — one of the lowest requirements in the nation. This is about 100% above the national average of 10 hours. The total cost is relatively affordable at $500 to $850, including education, application, and exam fees. Most aspiring security guards complete the entire process in 4-8 weeks, depending on how quickly they move through the coursework and exam preparation.
IllinoisSecurity Guard License Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Pre-License Education | 20 hours |
| Degree Required | No |
| Exam Required | Yes — Illinois PERC Card Exam |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Background Check | Yes |
| Broker Sponsorship | Not required |
| Application Fee | $55 |
| Exam Fee | $0 |
| Governing Body | Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation |
| License Reciprocity | Partial |
Reciprocity:
Steps to Get Your Security Guard License in Illinois
- 1
Complete 20 Hours of Guard Training
Time: 1-2 weeks Cost: $350 - 2
Submit Your Guard Registration/License Application
Apply through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. You'll need to pass a background check and pay the application fee of $55.
Time: 2-6 weeks for processing Cost: $55 - 3
Pass Background Check and Fingerprinting
Submit fingerprints for a criminal background check as required by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Most states disqualify applicants with felony convictions.
Time: 2-4 weeks Cost: $50 - 4
Receive Your Guard Card/License
Once your application and background check are approved, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation will issue your security guard license/registration card.
Time: 1-4 weeks - 5
Find Employment as a Security Guard
Apply to security companies and employers in Illinois. Consider pursuing additional certifications (armed guard, CPR/First Aid) to increase your earning potential.
Time: 1-4 weeks
Key Things to Know
- Education requirement: . Many providers offer online options, giving you flexibility to study on your own schedule.
- The licensing exam: The Illinois PERC Card Exam is administered by Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. You'll need to score at least 70% to pass. Study materials and practice exams are available from most education providers.
- Background check required: Illinois requires a criminal background check as part of the application process. Plan for additional processing time and fees.
- Online application available: Illinois accepts online applications, which can speed up processing time.
- Ongoing requirements: Once licensed, you'll need 8 hours of continuing education every 3 years. .
How Illinois Compares
Illinois requires 20 hours of pre-license education for security guards. This is about 100% above the national average of 10 hours. The average total cost in Illinois is around $675, compared to the national average of $614. Illinois's 3-year renewal cycle is longer than the national average of 1.9 years.
How Much Does a Security Guard License Cost in Illinois?
| Cost Item | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Pre-License Education | $300 - $700 |
| Application Fee | $55 |
| Exam Fee | $0 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $500 - $850 |
License Renewal
- Renewal Period: Every 3 years
- Continuing Education:8 hours
- CE Details:
- Renewal Fee: $55
Tips for Success
- Choose your education provider carefully: Compare prices, format (online vs. in-person), and reviews. Some providers offer exam prep materials bundled with the course, which can save you money. Check the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation website for a list of approved providers.
- Don't rush the exam: With only 20 hours required, you can complete the education portion quickly — some providers offer accelerated programs that finish in 2-3 weeks. Use practice exams to identify weak areas before scheduling your test date.
- Get your armed guard license for higher pay: Armed security guards earn 20-30% more than unarmed guards. The armed guard endorsement requires additional firearms training (8-40 hours depending on state) and a separate background check.
- Add certifications to stand out: CPR/First Aid, fire safety, and loss prevention certifications make you more competitive. Consider working toward a Certified Protection Professional (CPP) for career advancement.
- Budget approximately $850 for your Illinois license: This includes $55 in application fees, no exam fee, and education costs. Once licensed, plan for $55 in renewal fees every 3 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a security guard license in Illinois?
Most people complete the process in 2-4 weeks total. The pre-license education (20 hours) takes the longest. After completing education, the exam and application process typically adds 2-6 weeks.
How much does it cost to get a security guard license in Illinois?
The total cost ranges from $500 to $850, including pre-license education, the application fee ($55), and the no exam fee.
Can I get an Illinois security guard license with a criminal record?
The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation evaluates criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but certain offenses may affect your eligibility. Contact the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation for guidance before applying.
Do I need a college degree to become a security guard in Illinois?
No. Illinois does not require a college degree. You only need to complete the 20 hours of approved pre-license courses.
Can I take the pre-license courses online in Illinois?
Many approved education providers offer pre-license courses online, allowing you to study at your own pace. Check the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation website for a list of approved providers.
Sources
Professional Associations & Resources
Connect with these national organizations for career resources, networking, and continuing education.
Compare With Other States
Security Guard in Other States
From Our Blog
Cheapest States for Professional Licensing (2026)
Which states have the lowest professional licensing costs? We ranked all 50 states by average licensing cost across 49 professions.
The 10 Cheapest Professional Licenses to Get in 2026
The 10 most affordable professional licenses ranked by total cost. Get licensed for under $500 and start earning $40,000-$75,000/yr.
The Highest-Paying Licensed Careers That Don't Require a 4-Year Degree
12 high-paying licensed careers you can start without a bachelor's degree. Real salary data, licensing costs, and education requirements for each profession.