Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Public Safety
Security Guards Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for security guards in Washington, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Security Guards in Washington
Estimated timeline: 21 yearsCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Felony convictions prohibited.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
Individuals (to be licensed as an armed security guard) must be licensed as an unarmed private security guard, be at least 21 years old, have a current firearms certificate issued by the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission, fill out an application and pay a $121 fee.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- certificate issued by the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission, fill out an application and pay a $121 fee
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Licensing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$48,010 median (25% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#2 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Security Guards licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Felony convictions prohibited; Background/Criminal Review: Felony convictions prohibited.; Individuals (to be licensed as an armed security guard) must be licensed as an unarmed private security guard, be at least 21 years old,...).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Licensing and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $48,010, Security Guardss in Washington earn 25% above the national median of $38,370. Washington ranks #2 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 21 years.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$48,010Hourly estimate
$23.0825% above national median
Difference: +$9,640
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSecurity Guards Salary Ranking
#2 of 50 statesfor Security Guards median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | $48,620 |
| #2 | Washington | $48,010 |
| #3 | Colorado | $46,080 |
| #4 | Minnesota | $46,020 |
| #5 | Massachusetts | $44,950 |
Nearby States Comparison
Security Guards licensing across the regionLicense by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Licensing
2000 4th Ave W, Olympia, WA, 98502
Phone: 3606646488
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $76,400 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Firefighter | $93,490 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Police Officer | $102,640 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $73,420 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Security Guards in Washington?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 21 years, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Security Guardss in Washington?
Washington lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Security Guardss.
What education do you need to become a Security Guards in Washington?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Security Guards licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Security Guards salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Security Guardss in Washington is $48,010. Salaries range from $38,030 (10th percentile) to $73,480 (90th percentile).
How does the Security Guards salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Security Guardss in Washington earn 25% above the national median of $38,370, with a state median of $48,010.
How many Security Guardss work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 24,820 Security Guardss according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Security Guards license to Washington from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Security Guardss in Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Licensing. Review agency details at https://dol.wa.gov/about/contact-us/business-and-professional-licensing-contact-information.
How often do you renew a Security Guards license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.