Becoming a security guard in Maryland is not like most of the other states. In fact, there is no such thing as a state security guard license in Maryland. Instead, security guards in Maryland are issued a security guard certificate. Maryland security guards are regulated by their employer through the Security Guard Agency. Applicants are also required to meet the requirements set by the Maryland State Police.

Certification can be denied in the event of the following:

1) The applicant or individual fraudulently or deceptively obtains or attempts to obtain certification as a security guard; OR

2) If, under the laws of the United States or of any state, the applicant or individual plead(s) guilty or nolo contendere to or is convicted of (1) a felony; or (2) a misdemeanor that’s directly related to the fitness and qualification of the applicant or individual to be certified as a security guard.

Unarmed Security Guard Card Requirements in Maryland

In order to become an unarmed security guard in Maryland, a person must first get a certificate from Maryland's state agency. Applicants seeking their Maryland guard certificate must:

be 18 years of age or older
be a U.S. citizen or legal alien
submit a completed application to the state’s security agency
submit to a background check showing that you don’t have a criminal record
submit to drug screening
submit a fingerprint card along with your application
submit a passport-style photo
pay a small licensing fee
be able to write and speak in an English fluently
be in good physical condition

Armed Security Guard Card Requirements in Maryland

In order to become an armed security guard in Maryland, applicants must be certified. The certification process, which is handled by the hiring company, will dictate if the position is an armed one or not. Since you will be using a gun, additional firearms training is also important. Although including similar requirements from the above, applicants seeking their Maryland guard card for armed duties must:

be 21 years of age or older
be a U.S. citizen or legal alien
possess a valid social security number
submit to drug screening
have not committed any acts of fraud
submit a passport-style photo
successfully pass a background check
submit to fingerprint checks
have no mental instability

It’s a good idea to already have a weapons permit and proof of firearms training and safety protocols from a certified instructor.

Get Your Maryland Guard Card with Top Gun Academy

Even though you won't have a license in the traditional sense, you'll still be regulated. Once you’re hired by a Maryland security company, you’ll become a security officer with an official Maryland security guard certification. Top Gun’s training academy for security guards will help you enter your security career on the right foot. If you’re already a trained guard, Top Gun Academy can take you to the next level of performance. Contact Top Gun Security Academy to learn more about becoming the security professional you’ve always wanted to be.