How to Get a Security License in Illinois
The Illinois Division of Professional Regulation (idfpr.com) reviews security license applications. In Illinois, you must be licensed to work as a private detective or security contractor. The license exam covers various topics, such as applicable state and federal law (e.g., firearm regulations or privacy protections). If you previously had an Illinois license that is currently inactive, you might be able to restore your license instead of reapplying.
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Instructions
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Study for the licensing exam which will last 90 minutes. There are different study guides for the private detective versus security contractor exam. You have to earn at least a 70 to pass, but you can retake the test at no charge if you fail.
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Review potential moral character issues and assess whether you are eligible to be licensed. Your employment history and character will significantly impact whether you will receive a security clearance, which is essential in order to be licensed. For example, if you are a repeat convicted felon, it will be difficult to pass the security clearance.
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Prepare and timely submit an application. Filing fees for private detectives based on the exam are $288.40, or $291.40 after July 1, 2010. Application packets are available for free online through the Illinois Division of Professional Regulation's website. Disclose all relevant education, such as a bachelor's degree in police science, and experience if you have previously worked as a licensed security contractor.
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Wait for the candidacy decision. After you submit your application, you will receive a decision about whether the Illinois Division of Professional Regulation accepted or denied your request. If you are accepted, you will receive information about the exam at least ten days before you must take it.
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Attend your exam because you must reapply if you miss it. Once you pass the exam, submit proof of liability insurance, which is currently required at a minimum of $1,000,000.
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Tips & Warnings
Be prepared to answer multiple-choice questions. A question might ask you to identify a written order from a court that is given to an officer to place someone under arrest. The choices include writ of habeus corpus, summons, subpoena, or warrant (the correct answer is warrant).
If you are an out of state resident who has passed the exam, you must contact an Illinois State Police approved vendor to complete fingerprint processing.
