How to Become a Security Guard in Nevada

The demand for security guards in Nevada is rather steady.

If you were considering a new career path and were considering this one, read on to see if you’re really made for it!

Security Guard Job Description and Requirements

The Nevada Private Investigator’s Licensing Board oversees security guards working in this state.

As such, they need:

• To be registered
• To be issued a work card

Security guards have a handful of duties, including:

• Patrolling the premises at set times
• Writing reports explaining what happened during your shift and rounds
• Keeping an eye on the monitors from the security cameras
• Ensuring the laws and regulations are followed on your employer’s property
• Collaborating with the police if needed

While these duties seem easy to complete, the requirements are a bit more difficult to meet.

They include:

• Age of at least 18
• Being a citizen or showing proof of  residency
• Having no felony convictions
• Having no convictions related to illegal possession or use of dangerous weapons
• Meeting character requirements

If you’ll be working for a company that was licensed by the Board you’ll also need to pass an exam.

The exam covers:

• Rights of citizens
• Powers of arrest
• Limits of authority
• Recognizing noncompliance with laws
• Recognizing non-compliance with regulations

You should know that:

• The passing score is 100%
• There’s a study guide created by the Board
  • You can request a printed copy that costs $5

Becoming an Armed Security Guard

Security guards can carry a  firearm.

For this you’ll need:

• To be at least 21 years old
• To be employed
• To be trained
• To obtain a permit
• To pass a background check

The training program needs to be approved by the Board and provided by the employer.

If you’re a firearm instructor, you don’t need to get trained again.

Every 6 months, armed security agents do need to shoot qualifying rounds to keep their permits.

The Background Check Process

A background check will indicate if you’re eligible for the security agent position or not, regardless of carrying a weapon or not.

The check is done using your fingerprints and after applying for the position.

The fee for this check is included in the application fee, and you need to bring the receipt when you go have your fingerprints collected.

There are several locations across the state where you can do this.

If you’re a candidate from out-of-state, you’ll need to provide the FD-258 card for your fingerprints.

This card is provided by the FBI.

The Registration and Application Process

When applying for a security guard license, you can do so either online or through paper forms.

Regardless, you’ll need to also provide the following documents:

• A passport-style photo
• 2 identification forms
• Passing an exam
• Work authorization or permanent resident card if you’re a non-citizens
• Paying the fee – $85 or $95

The lower fee is for those who submit their documents online.

You have the option to get an expedited work card for the extra fee of $44.

Private Patrolman Requirements

To become a private patrolman you’ll need:

• 5 years of experience in the field (or 10,000 hours)
  • Documented by employers or supervisors
  • Or documented by someone else who will need to justify their qualifications
• To score at least 75% on the exam
• The exam fee -$100
• To pass state and federal background checks
• 3 references
• A financial statement
• A $750 background deposit

The exam is organized 4 times a year in Carson City and Las Vegas.

Those interested need to apply at least 1 month in advance and only those who are approved will be sent confirmations.

The background checks:

• Are based on your fingerprints
• Cost $51.25
• Require 2 cards

If you come from California, you’ll have to pass an additional check through California’s Department of Justice (CDOJ).

For this, you’ll pay an additional fee of $32 and provide an additional card with fingerprints.

Some of the forms must be notarized.

Salary Information

Depending on how much experience you have on the job and your actual position, you’ll earn a different wage.

Other factors will also decide how much you’ll earn, including the location and whether you’ll carry a weapon or not.

Regional Salary in Nevada

Additional Information

Corporations can also apply for a private patrolman license.

Their members also need to to provide fingerprint cards and identifying documentation.

Additionally, they’ll have to pay an additional application fee that is $20 per person.

Security Guard License by State