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North Carolina guard card requirements

Unarmed security guard registration · Last verified November 1, 2026

Not legal advice. This guide is general information, not legal or career advice. Licensing rules, hours and fees change and vary by state and employer. Verify every requirement with the issuing body before you enroll, apply or work.

Issuing agency

North Carolina Private Protective Services Board

Go to the official site

Requirements and training

Minimum age: Check with North Carolina Private Protective Services Board
Training and requirements: 16-hour unarmed security guard course (certificate dated within one year of applying); 60-month criminal history check; FD-258 fingerprint card.

Cost and time

Fees: $30 application fee plus $38 fingerprint fee.
Time: Your employer must register you within 30 days; licensees may use unarmed guards as probationary employees for 20 consecutive days first.

Renewal

$30 renewal; apply up to 90 days before expiration. Late renewals accepted within 90 days with a $25 late fee.

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Sources

www.ncdps.gov/about-dps/boards-and-commissions/private-protective-services-board/security-

Last verified November 1, 2026. Where a field says "Check with", we couldn't confirm it from an official source.