How to Become a Security Guard for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Security guards are now among the top ten fastest-growing jobs, according to LinkedIn’s Jobs on the Rise report. This surge isn’t just a coincidence, as more companies now recognize the critical role security professionals play in maintaining safe spaces.

With more businesses investing in risk management and crime prevention, the role of a security guard now comes with diverse job opportunities. But what does it take to become a security guard in 2025? If you're considering security work for the first time or looking to advance in the profession, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Security Guard in 2025

Projections indicate that the US security services market will continue its upward trajectory, with revenues expected to reach $47.11 billion in 2025.
Approximately 162,400 job openings for security guards and gambling surveillance officers are anticipated in the industry annually.
While basic qualifications remain standard, there is a growing emphasis on specialized training. Prospective security guards are encouraged to pursue certifications to stay competitive in the evolving job market.
Advancements in technology have led to the rise of virtual security guards. Through remote monitoring centers equipped with high-resolution cameras, security teams can respond instantly to threats without the need for on-site personnel.

What does a security guard do?
Is being a security guard a good career in 2025?
How much do security guards make in 2025?
What qualifications do you need to become a security guard?
What industries hire the most security guards?
Can further education boost career advancement for security guards?
What alternative career paths can security guards pursue?
What skills are essential for a successful security guard career?
What soft skills are essential for security guard success?
Can advanced education accelerate career growth for security guards?
What are the best security guard training programs?
What certifications help security guards get promoted?
How can specialized legal training benefit security guard career advancement?
How can security guard experience lead to federal law enforcement careers?
How is technology changing the security guard industry?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Security Guard in 2025

What does a security guard do?

Security guards play a crucial role in maintaining safety and order across various environments. Their responsibilities typically fall into four key areas:

Monitoring and Surveillance: Security guards patrol premises, monitor security cameras, and keep an eye on suspicious activities.
Access Control: Guards check identification, screen visitors, and control who enters a building or facility.
Emergency Response: Security personnel are often the first responders in emergencies, such as fires, medical incidents, or security breaches.
Reporting: Guards keep records of daily activities, report incidents, and provide written reports for management or law enforcement.

In 2025, as security threats become more complex and safety protocols grow more sophisticated, the role of a security guard has expanded beyond traditional surveillance. Their role now extends to cyber-physical security. They help ensure that sensitive data, smart buildings, and internet-connected security systems are protected from digital breaches.

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Is being a security guard a good career in 2025?

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 2% growth in employment for security guards from 2023 to 2033. Reflecting a rising demand for security professionals, LinkedIn's Jobs on the Rise report includes security guards among the top 25 fastest-growing jobs in the US. Approximately 162,400 job openings are expected in the industry annually.

One key factor driving this demand is the rise of outsourced security services. Rather than maintaining in-house security teams, many businesses now rely on large security firms that provide a comprehensive range of services. Reliance on technology-driven security services is also expected to grow, creating more career opportunities for security professionals.

How much do security guards make in 2025?

As of March 1, 2025, the average annual salary for a Security Guard I in the United States is $38,060. Salaries may vary significantly by location. For example, security guards in California earn around $44,940 annually, while those in Nevada have average earnings of $36,940.

The states with the highest pay for security guards as of 2023 are the District of Columbia, Alaska, Maryland, Minnesota, and Washington.

What qualifications do you need to become a security guard?

Here's an overview of the general qualifications to become a security guard:

Basic Requirements

Most regions require security guards to be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or equivalent (e.g., GED). A college degree is not required to become a security guard.

However, certain roles, such as security management, cybersecurity-focused security, or corporate security, may prefer or require higher education. This may include an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in cyber security, criminal justice, security management, or a related field.

Training and Licensing

Prospective security guard applicants must successfully complete Basic Security Guard (BSG) training as a prerequisite for employment. This foundational course covers legal responsibilities, emergency procedures, communication skills, and more.

After completing the required training, candidates must obtain a security guard license. The specific requirements and processes differ across states, with some requiring background checks, fingerprinting, and additional training.

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Specialized Training

Those intending to carry firearms must undergo additional training and obtain an armed guard license. This includes firearms safety, legal guidelines for the use of force, and proficiency testing. Training in conflict de-escalation techniques and the safe handling of non-lethal tools such as batons, tasers, and pepper spray is also often required. Programs like cyber security courses online may also prove useful especially when seeking to enhance one's technical expertise in protecting digital systems.

What industries hire the most security guards?

The industries employing the most security guards in the United States are:

Investigation and Security Services: This sector employs over 735,000 security guards, many of whom work for private security firms that provide patrol, surveillance, and protective services.
Retail Stores: Accounting for 1.39% of the industry's workforce, security guards in the retail sector help prevent theft, manage crowds, and maintain a safe shopping environment.
Healthcare Facilities: General medical and surgical hospitals employ approximately 44,460 security guards, accounting for 0.78% of all security guard employment in the US.
Schools and Universities: Schools are increasing security staff to manage access, monitor campuses, and handle emergencies. There are over 44,000 guards employed in elementary and secondary institutions.
Traveler Accommodation: As of 2023, the traveler accommodation industry employed around 21,280 security guards.

Can further education boost career advancement for security guards?

Security professionals seeking enhanced career prospects can leverage advanced academic programs that complement hands-on experience with in-depth theoretical knowledge. Higher education in fields such as criminal justice and risk management sharpens analytical skills while fostering strategic thinking needed in leadership roles. Affordable programs like the cheapest online criminal justice degree allow security guards to pursue quality education without compromising financial flexibility, ultimately broadening their competencies and positioning them for managerial opportunities.

What alternative career paths can security guards pursue?

Experienced security guards can leverage their practical expertise to transition into roles that extend beyond traditional on-site responsibilities. Many professionals move into supervisory or management positions within private security firms or public safety organizations, where strategic planning and risk assessment are critical. Others pursue specialized fields such as cybersecurity management or emergency response coordination, benefiting from cross-disciplinary training and leadership development. For those considering expansive roles in the broader justice sector, exploring jobs in criminal justice can reveal opportunities that align with their on-the-ground experience and skill set.

What skills are essential for a successful security guard career?

A successful career as a security guard requires a diverse set of skills that enable professionals to effectively protect people and properties. Key competencies include:

Physical Fitness: Emergencies require swift and strategic action. Whether dealing with a medical crisis, fire, or security breach, a well-conditioned security guard possesses the stamina and agility needed to react effectively.
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: In high-pressure situations, guards must make swift decisions. Strong critical thinking allows them to analyze information, identify potential threats, and determine appropriate responses.
Integrity and Professionalism: Security guards are entrusted with protecting assets, information, and individuals. Upholding honesty and reliability in all interactions fosters trust with clients, employers, and the public.
Effective Communication: One of the most valuable skills security guards can learn in training courses is conflict de-escalation. The ability to defuse tense situations without resorting to force requires guards to communicate clearly. Non-verbal strategies such as active listening, assertive yet respectful dialogue, and non-confrontational body language help security professionals manage disputes effectively.

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What soft skills are essential for security guard success?

Security guards operate in environments where effective soft skills are as critical as technical expertise. Mastery of clear communication, situational awareness, and conflict de-escalation techniques supports prompt decision-making under pressure and enhances overall team performance. Developing adaptability and emotional intelligence is vital for interacting with diverse groups and mitigating tensions during emergencies. In parallel, pursuing supplementary courses that fortify investigative and administrative competencies—such as a cheap paralegal certificate online—can provide additional insight into legal frameworks, thereby reinforcing a security professional’s ability to manage complex scenarios with precision.

Can advanced education accelerate career growth for security guards?

Advanced academic credentials can complement hands-on experience by deepening strategic, legal, and analytical competencies needed for senior roles. Pursuing advanced degrees exposes security professionals to broader legal frameworks and management theories, positioning them for leadership and specialized positions within the industry. Many online programs now offer flexible schedules that allow working professionals to balance career demands while earning qualifications. For example, research shows that candidates with higher education credentials may have a competitive edge when vying for roles that require detailed policy understanding and risk management expertise. Exploring options such as the cheapest master of legal studies online programs can provide a cost-effective pathway to acquiring this strategic advantage.

What are the best security guard training programs?

Pursuing a career as a security guard in the United States necessitates proper training to develop essential skills and ensure compliance with legal standards. Here are reputable training programs to prepare aspiring security professionals for the role:

International Foundation for Protection Officers

IFPO offers various courses designed to enhance security professionals' skills and career opportunities. What sets IFPO apart is its global recognition and practical approach. The institute provides training like cyber security certifications online, positioning professionals for career growth in both domestic and international markets.

In 2024, IFPO was honored with the Association of the Year award at the Security Buyer Awards for its significant contributions to the industry.

Securitas Training Academy

Securitas's data center training program has achieved global recognition through accreditation by the Holistic Information Security Practitioner Institute (HISPI). With its nationally recognized training programs, Securitas caters to both entry-level security guards and those seeking specialized skills. It offers specialized training in areas like cybersecurity and high-risk security assignments, with options that align with accelerated degree programs for working adults.

The American Society for Industrial Security

ASIS’s certifications are particularly unique for their focus on strategic leadership and operational expertise. In particular, the Certified Protection Professional (CPP) is regarded as the gold standard in the security industry, demonstrating an individual’s proficiency in managing complex security challenges and leading security teams. ASIS is globally recognized for setting industry standards and advancing security practices.

What certifications help security guards get promoted?

In 2025, as the industry becomes more specialized, security professionals with advanced training and credentials stand out in a competitive job market.

Here are some notable certifications that can aid in career advancement:

1. Certified Protection Officer (CPO)

Offered by the IFPO, the CPO certification focuses on enhancing the knowledge and skills of security professionals. It covers topics such as security risk management, legal aspects, and emergency response procedures.

2. Professional Security Officer Program (PSOP)

The PSOP certification, also provided by the IFPO, emphasizes foundational security concepts, including roles and responsibilities, asset protection, emergency evacuation procedures, professional ethics, and report writing. A passing score of 70% is required to achieve this certification.

As security guards gain expertise and certifications, they may find opportunities to advance into specialized roles, similar to how professionals in other fields like healthcare pursue programs such as the best online medical transcription programs to enhance their careers and open new pathways.

3. Certified Lodging Security Officer (CLSO)

Developed in partnership with the US Department of Homeland Security, the CLSO certification is tailored for security professionals in the hospitality industry. It equips officers with the latest techniques to ensure the safety of guests and employees in lodging environments. Additionally, professionals looking to expand their expertise in digital security may benefit from pursuing the cheapest cyber security degree online to enhance their skills in protecting sensitive guest data.

4. Security Supervisor Certification

Security Supervisor Certification provides training in leadership, team coordination, and advanced security protocols. This certification prepares security guards for supervisory positions by enhancing their ability to manage teams and design standard operating procedures. Similar to accredited online degrees, these programs provide flexibility for aspiring security professionals to complete coursework at their own pace.

How can specialized legal training benefit security guard career advancement?

In an environment where regulatory compliance and legal precision are increasingly critical, specialized legal training equips security guards with the ability to effectively interpret and apply legal standards during complex incidents. This training sharpens decision-making skills, enabling professionals to manage legal documentation and coordinate more efficiently with law enforcement when incidents escalate. It also opens opportunities for interdisciplinary roles in corporate security and risk assessment, enhancing overall career versatility. For a focused introduction to legal competencies without compromising primary responsibilities, consider pursuing the fastest online paralegal certificate.

How can security guard experience lead to federal law enforcement careers?

Security professionals with substantial field experience may explore transitions into federal law enforcement roles by strategically aligning their practical expertise with targeted federal training. This pathway emphasizes advanced investigative techniques, interagency coordination, and a deeper understanding of national security protocols. Such specialized preparation not only broadens career opportunities but also helps in meeting the rigorous standards demanded by federal agencies. For insights into the additional requirements and training needed, review what does it take to become a DEA agent.

How is technology changing the security guard industry?

The industry's growth is driven by the increasing adoption of advanced security technologies. Rather than solely depending on physical patrols, guards are now also trained to analyze surveillance video feeds, manage access control systems, and respond to alarm activations.

Technology-driven security isn’t happening in isolation. According to the 2022 ASIS Foundation report, approximately 52.5% of large organizations have fully or partially integrated their physical and cybersecurity functions. Smaller businesses are adapting even faster, with nearly 74% of small and micro companies embracing this convergence.

Here’s What Security Guards Have to Say About Their Careers

"Becoming a security guard gave me a sense of purpose and responsibility I never had before. Working in a busy shopping mall in Chicago means I have to stay alert, as unexpected situations can happen at any time. There are risks, but the training prepared me well, and the steady pay makes it all worth it." – John

"I wanted a career that was both active and meaningful, and security gave me exactly that. Some shifts can be quiet, but in this job, you always have to stay alert because anything can happen. The best part is that the hours are flexible, and with experience, the pay gets even better." – Leo

"I never thought I'd rely so much on technology as a security guard, but now I work with surveillance cameras and keycard systems every day. It’s not just about standing around. Monitoring alerts and catching small details on screens keeps things interesting. The night shifts can be long, but the extra pay makes it worth it." – Cameron

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Security Guard in 2025

How can I become a security guard in the USA?

To become a security guard in the USA, individuals must meet basic age and education requirements, complete mandatory training, and obtain a state-specific license. Aspiring professionals can find job opportunities through security firms, corporate employers, or online job boards.

How much does it cost to get a security certificate?

Security guard certification costs vary by state and provider, typically ranging from $50 to $500. Basic unarmed security training can be as low as $30 in Texas. In California, the initial application fee for a security guard is $55, with additional costs for background checks and fingerprinting.

Can I become a security guard without experience?

Yes, it is possible to become a security guard without prior experience. Many entry-level security guard positions require only a high school diploma or equivalent. Basic Security Guard (BSG) training typically covers topics such as surveillance techniques, emergency response, and legal regulations. Earning certifications, such as the Security Officer Certification (SOC) or First Aid, can also improve job prospects for those without prior experience.

Can I take security guard training online?

Yes, many states allow security guard training to be completed online through accredited programs. Courses cover essential topics such as legal regulations, emergency response, de-escalation techniques, and the use of security technology. Providers like Defencify, Top Gun Security Academy, and state-approved institutions offer flexible, self-paced training that meets licensing requirements.