How to Become a Security Guard in Washington State (2025 Guide)

Thinking of launching a career in private security in Washington state? You’re in the right place. This guide walks you through the steps to become a licensed unarmed security guard, how to upgrade to an armed security guard, and what to expect along the way — training, exams, application, and legal compliance.

Blueridge Advance Solutions is here to help you through each stage, so you don’t miss anything.

1. Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements

Before beginning the process, you must qualify under Washington law. Key eligibility criteria include:

• Be at least 18 years old (for unarmed guard)

• Be a United States citizen or a resident alien (green card holder)

• Have no disqualifying criminal convictions (especially those “directly related” to your role)

• Be employed by—or have a job offer from—a licensed private security company in Washington

• Submit fingerprints for state & national background checks

  
  

If you don’t meet one or more of these, you’ll need to address that first (e.g., expunge or wait out disqualifying offenses, secure employment, etc.).

2. Create a SecureAccess Washington (SAW) Account & Gather Documents

To interact with Washington’s licensing system, you’ll need a SecureAccess Washington (SAW) account. This is the online portal for professional licensing.

Documents and items you’ll generally need:

• Government-issued photo ID

• Proof of citizenship or legal residency

• Fingerprint submission receipt / tracking

• Job offer letter from a licensed security company

• Any court records or documentation if you have past convictions (for review)

• Application fees

  
  

3. Complete the Required Training & Exam

Pre-Assignment Training (for unarmed guards)

Washington law mandates an 8-hour pre-assignment training before you can be licensed as an unarmed guard.

Topics typically include:

• Legal powers and limitations

• Role & responsibilities of a security guard

• Patrol, observation, and incident reporting

• Emergency response & safety

• Basic rules, ethics, and conduct

You’ll also need to pass a state-approved exam at the end of the training.

Post-Assignment Training & Ongoing Requirements

Once employed, within your first 12 months, you must also complete 8 hours of post-assignment training covering advanced topics like:

• Communication & conduct

• Incident handling

• Access control

• Evacuation procedures

• Life safety & reporting systems

After that, guards are required to complete 4 hours of refresher training annually to remain compliant.

4. Complete Fingerprinting & Background Check

Before your license can be granted, you must submit a fingerprint-based background check. Use IdentoGO (MorphoTrust) if you are in Washington.

The application for your license must be submitted before or along with your fingerprints (you’ll get an application number first).

If you live outside Washington, the process may vary; contact local law enforcement or the WA Department of Licensing for further instructions.

5. Submit Your License Application

Once eligible, with training complete and fingerprints processed, you apply for your Private Security Guard License (Unarmed) with the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL).

You can apply:

• Online via SAW (faster)

• By mail (fill out forms + include check/money order)

Once submitted and approved, you’ll receive your license and be authorized to work as an unarmed guard.

6. Upgrade to Armed Security Guard (Optional but High-Paying)

If you want to carry a firearm as part of your duties, there are additional steps:

• Be at least 21 years old (for armed endorsement)

• Obtain a firearms certificate via the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (WSCJTC) — usually an 8-hour firearms training + qualification test.

• If you are not a U.S. citizen, you may need an Alien Firearm License in addition.

• The armed endorsement is added to your base security guard license; you’ll submit additional documents and perhaps add/change forms to your existing license.

• Practice and requalify annually to maintain proficiency.

Note: Holding a Concealed Carry (CCW) permit alone does not qualify you as an armed security guard in WA.

7. Maintain & Renew Your License

• The guard license must be renewed every 2 years under DOL guidelines.

• You must complete 4 hours of refresher training annually to keep your license valid.

• If you change employers, change firearms, or change roles, you may need to submit “add/change” forms to update your license record.

• Always maintain a clean record — no new disqualifying convictions — to stay in compliance.

  
  

8. Common Pitfalls & Tips for Success

• Don’t wait for a job — many security companies will give job offers contingent on licensing so you can apply.

• Use a state-approved, qualified trainer for your courses.

• Start with unarmed certification first, then move to armed if that’s your goal.

• Keep good records of your training, exam scores, fingerprint receipts, and license application.

• Stay current — missing refresher training or letting your license lapse can cost you time and money.

• Leverage veteran or military experience — sometimes you may get fee reimbursements or partial credit.

• Use the “Recommended Sanctions” document from DOL to see how past convictions may or may not disqualify you.

  
  

Becoming a security guard in Washington is a clear, regulated process: meet eligibility, complete state-approved training, pass exams, submit fingerprints, and apply through the DOL. From there, you can upgrade to armed guard status for higher pay and responsibility.

If you’re ready to walk this path, Blueridge Advance Solutions can help you with training, exam prep, and application support so you don’t feel lost.