Security Guard Training Requirements in Illinois (Unarmed)

Aside from acquiring a license, applicants for a security guard job in the State of Illinois must first obtain a PERC or Permanent Employee Registration Card. This card is the State’s way of making sure that each applicant passed through background checks and fingerprint processing. Any applicant who wishes to apply can start online by visiting the application page on the Division of Professional Regulation website. Without this card, it is not possible to apply for any security guard position.  

The process of license acquisition varies among states. In the state of Illinois, there are also requirements which the applicant will have to meet first before getting employed.

•  The applicant for an unarmed security guard position must be at least 18 years old.
•  He or she must be a citizen of the United States or a legal alien with a valid working permit.
•  He or she must be able to submit fingerprints.
•  The applicant must submit to a criminal background check.
•  The applicant should provide photo identification.
•  He or she should have a valid social security number.

Application Information

In Illinois the authority that regulates and issues PERCs will be the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). The applicants should be able to meet the age requirements before planning on applying for a PERC.

The first step in PERC application is for applicants to submit their fingerprints electronically. This process is very important in aiding the Federal Bureau of Investigation when verifying criminal records associated with the applicant. A fingerprinting certificate will be given after the whole procedure.

All applicants are also required to fill-out an application form which can be downloaded from the IDFPR website or obtained directly from the employer. This form should be sent back to the IDFPR for evaluation. Along with these requirements, there will also be a non-refundable $55 application fee, payable to the Department.

Security Guard Training Course

Unarmed security guard applicants in the state of Illinois are required to complete 20 hours of training. Other employers may require further training, depending on the standard set by their companies. Applicants may be able to take security guard training courses at local community colleges or firms that are certified and licensed by the State.

Training will equip the unarmed guards with knowledge that will help them do their best in their field of work. This will prepare them in dealing with the day to day problems that most experienced security guards commonly encounter.

Basic training covers the following:

•  Ethical and legal issues
•  Limited use of force
•  Detainment of suspects
•  Dealing with fire emergencies
•  Dealing with medical emergencies including first aid and CPR
•  Public relations

The issued license will be valid for two years. Every year the security guards are required to take refresher courses to update their licenses and keep it current.