How to Become a Security Guard in Maryland

Whether you're looking to start a new career or add a professional certification to your resume, becoming a licensed security guard in Maryland is a straightforward process — if you know the steps. Maryland has specific requirements regulated by the Maryland State Police (MSP) Licensing Division, and skipping any of them can delay or derail your application.

This guide walks you through every step, from eligibility to training to submitting your application.

Step 1 — Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements

Before you enroll in any training, make sure you qualify. To become a Maryland Security Guard you must:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
• Have no felony convictions
• Have no disqualifying criminal history
• Be eligible to legally work in the United States

If you have any prior criminal history, it's worth consulting with the Maryland State Police Licensing Division before investing in training. Some offenses that might seem minor can still affect your application.

Step 2 — Complete an MPCTC-Approved 12-Hour Training Course

Maryland requires all security guard applicants to complete a 12-hour initial training course from an MPCTC-approved provider. This is not optional and cannot be skipped. The course covers:

• Maryland criminal law and the legal authority of a security guard
• Limits of arrest and detention
• Use of force and use of force alternatives
• De-escalation and conflict resolution
• Emergency response procedures
• Professional conduct and ethics
• Interactions with vulnerable populations

At Nationwide Police Services, our 12-hour certification course is MPCTC-approved and taught by active and retired law enforcement professionals. We split the course over two days (6 hours each). Upon passing the written exam, you receive a Certificate of Completion.

Important: The Certificate of Completion is not your security guard license. It is a required document for your MSP application.

Step 3 — Complete LiveScan Fingerprinting

Maryland requires a criminal background check through LiveScan electronic fingerprinting. You'll need to schedule a LiveScan appointment at an approved location. The fee is approximately $65 and is paid separately from your training. You'll receive a receipt to include with your license application.

Step 4 — Submit Your Application to the Maryland State Police

Once you have your training certificate and LiveScan receipt, you're ready to apply. Your application package should include:

• Completed security guard license application form
• Certificate of Completion from your MPCTC-approved training
• LiveScan fingerprinting receipt
• Application fee (currently $50 — confirm current fee on the MSP website)
• Government-issued photo ID

Processing times typically run 4–6 weeks.

Step 5 — Receive Your License and Start Working

Once approved, your Maryland Security Guard license must be renewed every two years. If you want to carry a firearm on duty, you'll need additional training — our Track C firearms course covers Security Guard firearms qualification plus the Maryland Wear & Carry Permit in one program.

How Long Does the Whole Process Take?

• Training course: 2 days
• LiveScan fingerprinting: 1–3 days to schedule and complete
• MSP application processing: 4–6 weeks

Want to Take Your Career Further?

Consider the Special Police Officer (SPO) Certification — an 80-hour MPCTC program that gives you limited law enforcement authority and the ability to carry a firearm with a state commission. Nationwide Police Services offers all courses at our White Marsh / Nottingham facility in Baltimore County.

Ready to Get Started?

Our Maryland Security Guard Certification class is open for enrollment. Book online at any time or call us at (240) 749-1141. We also hire certified officers directly — completing your training with NPS puts you in front of our hiring team from day one.