SECURITY GUARD JOB REQUIREMENTS
To become a security guard in the state of Illinois, you must first obtain a PERC Card. A PERC Card (Permanent Employee Registration Card) tells employers in the State of Illinois that you have passed certain background checks through a fingerprint submission process. You will not be able to apply for a security guard position until you have obtain one. To apply for your PERC Card, you can visit the PERC Card application page on the Illinois Division of Financial & Professional Regulation (http://www.idfpr.com/Renewals/apply/perc.asp) website.
Please note that once you obtain your PERC Card, it does not guarantee that you will be hired. It only allows you to begin searching for an employer willing to hire you. The application instructions and requirements located on the PERC page are outlined below:
- The applicant must be at least 18 years of age to apply (for an unarmed security guard).
- You must provide your social security number.
- You will be required to pay a fee of $55.00 (payable to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation).
- You must attach a photo (instructions on the application).
- You must submit the appropriate security clearance documents which are obtained by completing the fingerprinting scan process. The state will then use this to run a background check to ensure you have not committed any felonies and are allowed to work as a security guard. You must use a certified livescan fingerprint vender (a list of venders is included on the PERC Card application).
Security Guard Training Requirements
In addition to the PERC card, you will also be required to complete 20 hours of security guard training. Only people with a clean criminal record are eligible for a PERC, so if you have been convicted for a crime or misdemeanor in the past, it's wise to contact the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation before you apply.
