Security guard card in United States

Security Guard Card Requirements in Mississippi

Mississippi doesn't regulate the licensing of private security guards. Rather, Mississippi's security guards are required to hold state certification credentials. Becoming a security guard in Mississippi requires dedication, commitment to public safety, and a clean criminal record in regard to felonies and other violent crimes. The State Personnel Board will give job descriptions that help prospective security officers better understand the roles of armed and unarmed guards.


Unarmed Security Guard Certification Requirements in Mississippi

In order to become an unarmed security guard in Mississippi, a person must first get a certification. Applicants seeking their Mississippi guard certification must:

  • submit a completed application
  • submit a dated and signed civil applicant waiver
  • submit a passport-style photo
  • submit copies of forms of identification such as a United States passport or copy of both your social security card and driver's license
  • submit fingerprints through an electronic submission medium 
  • have no convictions of felonies or crimes relating to violence
  • speak and write in English
  • be employed by a Mississippi security company


Armed Security Guard Requirements in Mississippi 

There are several similarities between unarmed and armed security guard requirements in Mississippi, but guards with firearms are held to unique additional standards owing to the fact that they are entrusted with a lethal weapon. Applicants seeking their Mississippi guard certification for armed duties must:

  • be at least 21 years of age
  • be a U.S. citizen or legal alien
  • submit to background checks
  • have no felony convictions or any crime on their record involving the illegal use of weapons
  • not suffer from a physical infirmity that prevents the safe handling of a stun gun, pistol, or revolver
  • not been voluntarily or involuntarily committed to a mental institution or mental health treatment facility unless he possesses a certificate from a psychiatrist licensed in this state that he has not suffered from disability for a period of five (5) years
  • submit a passport-style photo
  • successfully pass a background check
  • submit to fingerprinting
  • not been judged mentally incompetent or has waited five (5) years from the date of his restoration of mental capacity by a court order

Frequently, employer expectations are higher than the minimums mandated by the state. Actual requirements will vary according to your specific assignment and job role. A concealed carry permit (CCW) alone doesn’t allow a security guard to carry a firearm while on duty. 


Get Your Mississippi Guard Card with Top Gun Academy 


From dealing with medical issues by calling emergency services to performing regular patrols to deter crime, security guards will always be needed to help protect the innocent. Top Gun Academy makes the best unarmed and armed guards in Mississippi and beyond. Whether you’re just starting out your security career and need to get certified or are already a veteran of the industry and want to take your skills to new heights, we’ve got your back. Call or email our team to learn more about our academy’s training services today!