Career Guide
Security Guard: Pay & How to Get Hired
A security guard protects people and property by patrolling, watching for problems, and responding to alarms. In the U.S. they make about $18.28 an hour, and most jobs need little or no experience — a state guard card is often all you need.
What a Security Guard makes
| Lower pay (25%) | Typical (median) | Higher pay (75%) |
|---|---|---|
| $16.93/hr | $18.28/hr | $22.21/hr |
U.S. average, 2025. Pay is higher in some metros.
Data from
· U.S. Dept. of Labor (ETA) & Minnesota DEEDSee security guard pay near you How much experience you need
Little to no experience needed — many employers train you on the job.
Usually a high school diploma or GED, though some employers don't require one. Most states require a guard (security) license or card.
In demand — the U.S. Dept. of Labor flags lots of openings
Source: This application incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). O*NET Web Services. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
What a Security Guard does
- Patrol buildings and grounds to prevent and spot signs of trouble.
- Lock and secure doors, gates, and entrances.
- Answer alarms and check out disturbances.
- Watch over visitors, employees, and property to keep order.
- Respond to emergencies and call for help when needed.
Also called: Security Officer, Loss Prevention Officer, Campus Security Officer, Armed Security Officer.
Source: This application incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). O*NET Web Services. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
How to get hired as a Security Guard
- Check your state's requirements — most need a guard card or security license before you start.
- Take the short required training and apply for your state guard card.
- Apply to security companies, hospitals, schools, and retailers — many hire and train new guards.
- Ask about armed or specialized roles later — they usually pay more once you have experience.
The card that helps you earn more
Security Guard Card (state license)
about $60
Requirements are set by each state — the link is California's. Check your own state's licensing board for the exact steps.
How to get itReady to get hired? Make a free Work Card employers can see.
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Frequently asked
How much do security guards make an hour?+
In the U.S., security guards make about $18.28 an hour on average, and most earn between $16.93 and $22.21 an hour, per 2025 U.S. Department of Labor data. Armed and specialized roles pay more.
How do you become a security guard?+
Most states require a guard card or security license: take the short required training, apply for the card, then apply to security companies. Many employers hire and train new guards with little or no experience.
What is a guard card?+
A guard card is the state license that lets you work as a security guard. Requirements vary by state — you complete a short training course and apply through your state's licensing board (for example, California's BSIS).
Do you need experience to be a security guard?+
No. The U.S. Department of Labor lists security guard work as needing little preparation. With a guard card and a clean background, many companies will hire and train you.