Pennsylvania requires a state-level security guard license. The licensing authority is State Dept of Public Safety / Licensing Board. The median salary is $34,868 per year.
Last updated 2026-05-08
Pennsylvania requires a security guard to hold a state license. Protect property, assets, and people by maintaining a visible presence and monitoring for security threats. Licensing is administered by the State Dept of Public Safety / Licensing Board.
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Education | State-approved security guard training (8-40 hours depending on state) |
| Experience Details | State-approved security guard training (8-40 hours depending on state) |
Pennsylvania requires passing the Pennsylvania Security Guard License/Registration Exam with a minimum score of 70%. The application fee is $36.
| Exam Name | Pennsylvania Security Guard License/Registration Exam |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Code Edition | Security Guard License/Registration Exam |
| Application Fee | $36 |
Getting licensed as a security guard in Pennsylvania takes 24 months on the typical path. Here are the steps.
The total cost includes an exam application fee of $36 and renewal fees of $36 every 2 years. Continuing education of 8 hours is required per renewal cycle.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Exam Application | $36 |
| License Renewal | $36 every 2 years |
| Continuing Education | 8 hours |
Security Guards in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $34,868, which is less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
| Mean (average) | — / year |
| Entry level (10th pct) | — |
| Top earners (90th pct) | — |
| Total employed | — in Pennsylvania |
| National average | $35,580 |
Yes — Pennsylvania requires a state-level security guard license. Protect property, assets, and people by maintaining a visible presence and monitoring for security threats.
The required exam is the Pennsylvania Security Guard License/Registration Exam. You need a score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $36.
The median annual salary for security guards in Pennsylvania is $34,868. The national median is $35,580.
Pennsylvania requires 8 hours of continuing education for license renewal every 2 years.
The fastest path takes approximately 6 months. The typical path takes 24 months including experience requirements.