Security Guide
What Is a Security Guard Card?
What the card actually is, what authority it carries, and the common misconceptions about it.
The Card Itself
A guard card is a license, not a badge. In Washington the Department of Licensing issues the private security Guard license after an application, fingerprint-based background check, and completion of pre-assignment training. It must be carried on duty and presented on request.
What It Authorizes
- Working as a private security Guard for a licensed Washington security company
- Standing an assigned post, patrolling a property, and observing and reporting
- Acting as an agent of a property owner in controlling access to private property
What It Does Not Authorize
- Arrest powers beyond those of any private citizen
- Carrying a firearm on duty — that requires a separate armed endorsement and firearms certificate
- Traffic enforcement, searches of persons, or use of emergency vehicle equipment
The limits are covered in detail in our guide on detainment authority in Washington.
Common Misconceptions
"A guard card makes me a security officer." It makes you licensable. Competence comes from training and repetition on post. "My card from another state counts here." It does not. "I can freelance with my card." Washington ties the individual license to employment with a licensed company.
Getting One
Follow the steps in how to get a guard card in Washington, or take our 1-day certification for $75 through the training program. If you want the job first, apply through Careers — no card required to start the conversation.
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
- What is a guard card?
- A guard card is the common name for a state-issued private security Guard license. In Washington it is issued by the Department of Licensing and must be carried while on duty.
- Does a guard card give you police powers?
- No. A guard card licenses you to work as a private security Guard. It confers no arrest authority beyond what any private citizen has.
- Is a guard card valid in other states?
- No. Private security licensing is state by state. A Washington card does not transfer to Oregon, California, or elsewhere.
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