Security Dogma is reader-supported. When you buy through links on this page, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Everything on Security Dogma for security officers in one place: how to get licensed in your state, how to build a career, the gear that holds up on a real post, and free forms for every shift. Written by someone who has worked armed and unarmed posts, executive protection, nightclub doors and loss prevention, and checked against official sources.
Start here
- How to Become a Security Guard — Training, licensing, background checks and how to land your first post.
- Security Guard Training in 2027 — What is changing in guard training and what to prepare for.
- Security Guard License Requirements by State (A–Z) — All 50 states: training hours, fees, exams and regulators.
- Security Guard Equipment List: 20 Essentials — What to carry on every post, and what needs permission first.
Licensing & training
Every state sets its own rules, and armed work adds another layer. Start with your state, then learn the limits of your authority.
- License requirements by state — Find your state and its regulator.
- Armed vs. unarmed security guards — Training, pay and licensing differences.
- Can security guards detain you? — What the law allows and where the line is.
- De-escalation for security guards — Techniques that keep incidents from becoming fights.
- Security guard jobs with a criminal record — How records affect licensing, state by state.
- All licensing and training guides — The full licensing hub.
Careers
Guard work is a starting point. These guides cover the paths that grow out of it, with pay data and next steps.
- Security careers: every path — From guard to investigator to corporate security.
- How to become a bodyguard — Executive protection training and how to break in.
- How to become a bouncer — Licensing, skills and what the door really involves.
- How to become a loss prevention officer — Retail security, pay and career growth.
- Private investigators — Licensing, equipment and how to become a PI.
- All career guides — The full careers hub.
Gear
Honest picks for what you actually carry on shift, chosen from current best sellers.
Streamlight Stinger 2020
Rechargeable · 2,000 lumens · duty-grade
A patrol standard: bright, tough and rechargeable in the car or at the post.
Watch out for: Heavier than everyday-carry lights.
See current price →5.11 A/T 8″ Waterproof Side Zip
Waterproof · side zip · light
Comfortable for twelve-hour posts and quick to get on and off.
Watch out for: Run slightly narrow for some feet.
See current price →Sony ICD-UX570
Built-in USB · clear audio
Dictate notes as they happen and write cleaner reports.
Watch out for: Check recording-consent rules before recording others.
See current price →- Equipment list: 20 essentials — The full checklist.
- Security technology and AI — Digital tools for the field and the report.
- Two-way radios — Choosing and using radios.
- Body cameras — What to look for and when they help.
- Flashlights — Duty lights compared.
- Boots — Boots for long posts.
- Cold and wet weather gear — Staying warm and dry outside.
- All gear guides — The full gear hub.
Free forms
- Free shift forms — Daily activity report, patrol log and pass-down log.
- Incident report template — A clean template and how to fill it in.
- How to write a daily activity report — Examples and common mistakes.
Frequently asked questions
How do I become a security guard?
Complete your state’s required training, pass a background check and apply for your state license, then apply for posts. Our step-by-step guide covers each stage.
Do security guards need a license?
Most states require a license or registration for security guards, and armed guards need additional training and a firearm permit. Check your state’s page for current requirements.
What equipment does a security guard need?
At minimum a radio, a flashlight, a notebook and comfortable boots. Our 20-item list covers the rest and what needs permission first.
Firearms and weapons disclaimer: This page discusses firearms or other weapons for general information only. It is not legal advice, not firearms training, and not a recommendation to buy, carry or use any weapon. Laws on owning, carrying, transporting and using firearms, stun guns, pepper spray, batons and knives vary by state, county and city. They change often, can be different for security work, and breaking them can lead to criminal charges. Before you carry or use any weapon, confirm the current law where you are, get any required permit or license, train with a certified instructor, and follow your employer’s, client’s and property owner’s rules. You alone are responsible for how you buy, carry, store and use any weapon. Security Dogma and its authors accept no liability for any injury, loss, damage or legal consequence that results from acting on this information. A product link does not mean the item is legal where you live, so check local restrictions before you buy.