Security Guide
How to Get a Guard Card in Washington State
The full path from application to endorsement — training, fingerprints, cost, and how long each step really takes.
Step 1 — Confirm You Qualify
You must be 18 or older and able to pass a state and federal background check. Convictions involving theft, violence, dishonesty, or weapons are the usual obstacles. Disclose everything on the application; omissions cause more denials than old convictions do.
Step 2 — Complete Pre-Assignment Training
Washington requires pre-assignment training before an Officer works a post. Our 1-day guard card certification is $75 and covers legal authority and limits, use of force, observation and reporting, emergency procedures, and public interaction. Companies staffing their own Teams send Guards to us on open enrollment; details and dates are on the training page.
Step 3 — Apply and Get Fingerprinted
Submit the Department of Licensing private security Guard application with the required fee, then complete electronic fingerprinting at an approved vendor. The FBI portion of the check drives most of the wait.
Step 4 — Start Working
Once licensed, you must carry the card on duty and keep it current through the renewal cycle. Your employer maintains the assignment records; you maintain the card.
Going Further Than the Minimum
A guard card makes you legal. It does not make you good. Our OIP 1 is a four-day, $300 program adding Fire Watch standards, patrol methodology, radio discipline, and report writing that survives scrutiny. OIP 2 and probation extend the path to thirteen days, ending with duty belt issuance.
Hiring On With Us
Diligence Security hires unarmed Officers across Pierce, King, and Thurston Counties. No guard card is required to apply — we help candidates obtain one. You will need a valid driver's license, a clean record, and a reliable, insured vehicle. Start on the Careers page.
Work With Diligence Security
Diligence Security LLC protects people across King, Pierce, Snohomish, Kitsap, and Thurston Counties. Explore our Patrol Officer programs, On-site Security posts, Emergency Fire Watch, and Event Security, or review the Service Areas we cover. Contact us for a site evaluation, or see our Officer training and guard card certification if you are staffing a Team of your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a guard card cost in Washington?
- Budget for the Department of Licensing application fee, the fingerprint background check, and training. Diligence Security offers 1-day guard card certification for $75 and the 4-day OIP 1 program for $300.
- How long does it take to get a guard card in Washington?
- Training is one day. The Department of Licensing application, fingerprints, and background check commonly take several weeks to process.
- Can I get a guard card without a job offer?
- Washington ties the individual Guard license to employment with a licensed private security company, so applicants generally apply in connection with a hiring company.
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