What do I need to become a security officer in Illinois?

Published on February 3, 2025
Duration: 11:18

To become a security officer in Illinois, individuals must complete an unarmed security class, undergo fingerprinting for a background check, and obtain a PERC card. For armed security, an additional armed security class and an Illinois State Police Firearms Owner's Identification (FOID) card are required. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation handles licensing and reviews backgrounds on a case-by-case basis, with a focus on public safety.

Quick Summary

To become a security officer in Illinois, you need to complete an unarmed security class, get fingerprinted for a background check, and obtain a PERC card. For armed security, an additional armed security class and a FOID card are required. The IDFPR reviews backgrounds case-by-case, and even individuals with past felonies may qualify.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Begin with the End in Mind
  2. 00:23Unarmed vs. Armed Security Goals
  3. 00:49Requirements for Unarmed Security
  4. 01:09Fingerprinting Process and Requirements
  5. 01:21Licensed Fingerprint Vendors
  6. 02:00Background Checks and the Fourth Amendment
  7. 03:02Why Old Fingerprints Don't Work
  8. 03:16PERC Card and Fingerprint Background Check
  9. 03:47Felonies and Security Licensing
  10. 04:13Unarmed Security Specifics
  11. 04:22IDFPR Background Review Process
  12. 05:18License Probation Explained
  13. 05:36Summary of Unarmed Security Requirements
  14. 05:43Requirements for Armed Security
  15. 06:09Armed Security Class Details
  16. 06:12Revolver vs. Semi-Automatic Training
  17. 06:46FOID Card Requirement
  18. 06:53Total Requirements for Armed Security
  19. 07:08Handling Existing Certifications
  20. 07:18Timeline for PERC Card Application
  21. 07:39Unarmed Security Certificate Timeline
  22. 07:42Fingerprint Transaction Control Number
  23. 07:56Applying for Your PERC Card Online
  24. 08:33Security as a Flexible Profession
  25. 08:54Renewing Your PERC Card
  26. 09:02Armed Security Certificate Timeline
  27. 09:17Submitting Armed Security Paperwork
  28. 09:37Email Notification for Armed Security Certificate
  29. 10:02Digital Certificates vs. Mail
  30. 10:25FOID Card Application Website
  31. 10:36FOID Card Website URL Breakdown
  32. 10:59Confirming FOID Card Website

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the basic requirements to become an unarmed security officer in Illinois?

To become an unarmed security officer in Illinois, you must complete an approved unarmed security class, undergo fingerprinting for a background check, and obtain a PERC card from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.

What additional steps are needed for armed security in Illinois?

For armed security in Illinois, in addition to the unarmed requirements, you must complete an armed security class and obtain a Firearms Owner's Identification (FOID) card issued by the Illinois State Police.

Can individuals with a criminal record work as security officers in Illinois?

Yes, Illinois's IDFPR reviews criminal backgrounds on a case-by-case basis. Felonies may not automatically disqualify applicants, especially for unarmed roles, provided the offenses are not recent and the individual doesn't pose a public danger.

How long does it take to get an armed security certificate in Illinois?

After submitting the necessary paperwork for armed security, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation typically takes 6 to 8 weeks to approve the application and issue the armed security certificate with a 230 license number.

Where can I apply for an Illinois FOID card?

You can apply for your Illinois Firearms Owner's Identification (FOID) card online through the Illinois State Police website at www.ispfsb.com.

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