NYS SECURITY GUARD LICENSE FAQ’S
GETTING AND MAINTAINING YOUR CERTIFICATIONS
Getting a NYS Security Guard License is a step-by-step process that Knight Training Institute can help you with. For a detailed description of how to become a security guard in New York State, visit our Application Process and Documents page. Here are some Frequently Asked Questions to help you in your application and license maintenance:
Yes, you can take NYS Security Guard Licensing Classes online with Knight Training Institute. All of our security training courses are indicated as in-person or online, simply select your preference when registering.
The New York Department of State reviews all records of applicants. If you have been arrested or convicted, you will need to provide a statement explaining these events on your record and also provide copies of records received from the criminal court. New NY State laws make it possible for records of certain felony and misdemeanor convictions to be sealed after 10 years.  You’ll need to apply for a Certificate of Disposition from the court to get these convictions sealed. Visit NYCourts.gov for more information on obtaining a Certificate of Disposition.
You don’t need to register for both the 8 hour pre-registration security course, and 16 hour on-the-job training at the same time. However, the 16 hour course must be taken within 90 days of your first employment, so it makes sense to take care of it before you get a a regular job. Plus, Knight Training Institute offers seasonal discounts on both 8 and 16 hour courses when you register at the same time, take advantage!
YES! You will need to schedule an appointment with IdentoGo which will generate your electronic fingerprints. Schedule an appointment online at www.identogo.com or call 877-472-6915.  Your fingerprints will be sent to the FBI to check for any criminal history. You will receive a receipt which will be sent along with your application.
You will be sent a link to a Zoom meeting at the email address you use for your order prior to the course. Please check your spam or junk email folder if you do not see it before contacting ktiinfo@ktinyc.com
To use a discount code, simply enter it at checkout. For promotions that require multiple courses, add both courses to your shopping cart, then checkout using the promotional code.
The following must be sent to the NYS Division of Licensing Services:
- Completed Employee Statement and Security Guard Application (Form DOS-1206-f-a).
- Fingerprinting receipt from approved vendor
- $36 non-refundable application fee payable to NYS Department of State (only money orders, cashier’s check or company checks are accepted—no personal checks or credit cards)
- Copy of 8 Hour Pre-Assignment training certificate
- Any additional documentation requested in response to questions on application
You can get a new license by downloading and filling out a Duplicate License/Registration Request form and mailing it to the NYS Division of Licensing Services with a check for $25. Payment via credit card is also accepted by filing out a Credit Card Authorization form available here.
To initiate changes to your security card’s information (name, address, etc.), you need to fill out and send in a NYS Change Notice form, along with check for $25. Download the form here.
It takes approximately 21 days from the time you send in your application to the time you receive your New York State Security Guard license in the mail. To check to see if your license has been processed, visit the Licensing Status page of the NY State Division of Licensing Services. If you just applied for the first time, you can do a search by name.
If you applied for your first license, you can check the status by clicking here.
If you’re renewing and already have a security guard id number, you can search by entering your id. https://appext20.dos.ny.gov/lcns_public/main_screen
You must be a U.S. citizen or a resident alien of the United States, be 18 years or older and not have any record of past convictions of serious crimes.  You must also take the state-mandated 8-Hour Pre-Assignment course. A certificate is issued after successful completion and is required as part of the application. You are also required to take the 16-hour On the Job Training (OTJT) course within 90 days of being employed as a security guard. Knight Training Institute can provide all required training for your certification.
The same photo and identification number that is on your New York State drivers license will be used for your security guard license. Those without a drivers license will need to go a DMV office to get a photo taken (no cost involved). An FS-6T receipt with a 9-digit ID number will be given to you. This is the ID number you will use on the application form.