How to Become a Security Guard in Illinois?

Security guards provide protection and prevent theft, violence, or infractions of rules at businesses and events.

As a security guard in Illinois, you need to complete state-mandated training, pass background checks, and obtain a Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC). This guide will walk you through each step of the process.

Getting Started

Before diving into the licensing process, make sure this career is right for you.

What is a Security Guard?

Security guards patrol and inspect property to protect people, assets, and information. Duties typically include:

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• Monitoring premises through video surveillance and patrolling grounds
• Controlling access by verifying IDs and operating detection systems
• Enforcing rules, regulations, and policies
• Detaining trespassers and contacting authorities as needed
• Preparing reports about incidents and suspicious activities

It can be a demanding job both physically and mentally. Consider your ability to stand and walk for long periods, confront unruly people, and make quick decisions in emergencies.

Why Become a Security Guard?

There are many good reasons to pursue this career:

• In demand: Security guards are needed around the clock to protect all types of businesses, events, residences, and institutions. Projected job growth is strong.
• Decent pay: Illinois security guards earn $34,680 per year on average. Pay typically starts around $22,260 for entry-level roles.
• Flexible scheduling: Security jobs include full-time, part-time, overnight, weekend and temporary assignments with potential for flexible schedules.
• Room to advance: With experience, guards can move into supervisory or investigative roles with higher pay. Some pursue careers in law enforcement.

Requirements to Become a Security Guard

The baseline requirements to work as a security guard in Illinois include:

• At least 18 years of age
• Valid driver’s license or state ID
• High school diploma or equivalent
• No disqualifying criminal convictions
• Authorization to work in the United States

You’ll also need to complete state-approved training, pass background checks, and obtain a PERC license.

Training

Before applying for your PERC card, you must take 20 hours of classroom instruction plus 40 hours of on-the-job training.

Security Guard Training Courses

Hundreds of approved training providers across Illinois offer in-person and online security guard classes covering topics like:

• Legal regulations and responsibilities
• Access control and incident response
• Patrolling, observation, and reporting
• Workplace violence prevention
• Public relations
• Emergency response

Most courses cost $100-$300 and can be completed within a week. Your training provider will issue a certificate of completion needed for licensing.

Hands-on Training

You must also complete 40 hours of hands-on training shadowing experienced guards to gain practical skills in real work environments.

This usually takes about two weeks. Companies often provide this training to new hires. If not, seek opportunities to volunteer or intern with security firms to meet the requirement.

Keep documentation of all training to submit with your PERC application.

Licensing

All security guards in Illinois must apply for and renew a PERC license through the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).

Applying for a PERC Card

To qualify for your permanent ID card, you need to:

1. Complete training: Submit certificates showing you finished 20 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of hands-on training.
2. Pass background checks: Fingerprinting is required to conduct criminal history, sex offender registry, and other database searches.
3. Provide documentation: Supply a headshot photo, copy of your driver’s license or state ID, work eligibility forms, and any relevant court dispositions.
4. Pay fees: Currently you must pay a $60 nonrefundable application fee plus a $30 fingerprint processing fee.

If approved, your PERC card will be valid for two years initially. Expect to wait 3-4 weeks for processing and delivery of your card.

PERC Card Renewal and Fees

To maintain an active PERC status:

• Renew your PERC license every two years by resubmitting background checks and paying a $30 fee
• Complete 20 hours of continuing education training biennially
• Notify the IDFPR within 30 days after changing your name, address or employer

Letting your PERC card lapse can require retaking initial training and testing.

Employment

With your PERC license secured, you’ll be qualified to apply for security guard openings across the state.

Security Guard Job Openings

Major employers like Allied Universal, Securitas, and Secur America often list openings for guards to work at office buildings, warehouses, hotels, hospitals, and other sites. Events, retail stores, residential communities, schools, and government agencies also frequently hire security personnel.

Search job sites like Indeed, Monster, and LinkedIn using keywords like “security officer,” “guard,” “protective services.” Find openings also on employers’ websites and listings with IDFPR.

Landing an interview typically requires submitting a detailed, professional resume.

Creating a Professional Resume

Highlight your security credentials, training, and any prior experience in law enforcement, loss prevention, emergency response, or customer service roles. Emphasize skills like:

• Attentiveness, reliability, and sound judgement
• De-escalation, conflict resolution, and self-defense
• CCTV, alarm system, and access control proficiencies
• Computer competencies with Microsoft Office and reporting software
• Aptitude with radios and communications equipment

Also be sure to note any foreign language abilities or relevant certifications like CPR or first aid training.

Preparing for the Interview

Come ready to answer or demonstrate your abilities around:

• Enforcing post orders, policies, and emergency response protocols
• Professional appearance, demeanor, and conduct
• Monitoring multiple security feeds and site activity
• Communication and report writing
• Decision making in challenging hypothetical scenarios

Highlight the vigilance, integrity, and service mentality needed to excel as a protector of people and property.

With licensed PERC status plus relevant education and experience, you can prove you have what it takes to succeed in security roles and beyond.

Additional Resources

Take advantage of resources to help launch and build your career:

Security Guard Associations

• Join the Illinois Security Professionals Association (ISPA) to access training materials plus network with over 1,000 members.
• Look into the National Association of Security Companies (NASCO) for industry news and recognition programs.
• Volunteering with the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS) can earn free Certified Protection Professional (CPP) exam vouchers to advance your credentials.

Continuing Education

Consider supplementing your mandatory PERC license renewal training with optional certifications like:

• Certified Protection Professional (CPP)
• Physical Security Professional (PSP)
• Workplace Violence Prevention (WVP)
• Crime Prevention Specialist (CCPS)

Many community colleges and universities also offer campus security officer training programs and degrees in the field of security management.

Staying abreast of evolving best practices and technological advances can help you maintain your value and stand out.

In Summary,

Becoming an Illinois security guard involves getting trained, licensed, and vetted to protect people and assets across the state.

If you have the vigilance, integrity, and service mentality for this demanding but rewarding profession, take the steps above to begin your new career. You’ll soon be on the frontlines contributing to safer communities.

FAQs

Do I need to be physically fit for security guard jobs?
While fitness requirements vary between companies, most posts involve extended walking, standing, lifting, reaching and other physical duties. Being able to respond rapidly to threats is also key. So maintaining at least moderate strength and stamina is recommended.

Where do security guards in Illinois earn the most money?
The Chicago metro area offers the state’s highest pay—averaging over $42,000 annually. This reflects the higher cost of living plus prevalence of roles guarding large commercial buildings, tourist sites and high-profile events.

What kind of uniform do security guards wear?
Uniform requirements differ, but generally include protective boots or shoes, tactical pants or slacks, a tucked-in shirt, sleeved collared top, name badge or patch, duty belt, and jacket in assigned colors. Some posts provide or require standard law enforcement style uniforms.

Can I work armed security jobs with a PERC card?
The 20-hour unarmed guard training allows only for unarmed positions. To carry firearms on duty legally requires separate additional live-fire range training, testing and special licensing through the IDFPR.

Do I need a PERC card to be a bodyguard?
Yes, individual bodyguards and firms specializing in executive protection must also undergo background checks and licensing mandates governed by the Private Detective, Private Alarm, Private Security, Fingerprint Vendor, and Locksmith Act.