How to Start a Security Business in Washington State

If this is your first attempt to start your own business, you are probably going into it with a mix of enthusiasm and worry. The state of Washington has streamlined much of the process for obtaining the proper permits, licenses and designations, making it relatively simple to start a business in the state. A well-researched business plan will help you open the doors of your new security business.

Things You'll Need

• Computer

Instructions

1. Choose a name for your business that describes what you are doing and is not in use by another similar company. Assistance ensuring the name you have chosen is not already in use is available on the Washington State Business and Professional License Search website and by calling the Washington secretary of state's Trademark Division at [phone].

2. Enlist the help of an attorney or CPA to decide whether your business will be a sole proprietorship, a general proprietorship, a limited liability company or a corporation. Your financial adviser will recommend the best course of action for you.

3. Formation papers must be filed with the Washington secretary of state if your company is a limited partnership, a limited liability company, a limited liability partnership or a corporation. Any other type of entity does not require formation papers to be filed.

4. Submit a master business application to the Washington secretary of state in person, by mail or online. Upon applying, the state will advise you of the specific permits and licenses you will need. The state requires that security guard businesses have a separate license, which will be issued when you submit this application.

5. Licenses for "private security guard companies" are granted to owners who are at least 21 years old; have no criminal convictions that affect the capacity to perform the duties or that hinder public safety; and have proof of three years of experience as a manager, supervisor or administrator of such a company. Additionally, the company must have a physical location in the state of Washington and possess a valid business license with the Department of Licensing.

6. 

   The security guards you employ can be licensed as either "unarmed" or "armed." To obtain an unarmed license, applicants must be at least 21 years old; have no criminal convictions that affect the capacity to perform the duties or that hinder public safety; and have an offer of employment from a security company. For an armed license, applicants must first have held an unarmed license and must have a valid firearms certificate from the state of Washington.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you have sufficient insurance coverage for your security-guard business. A certificate of liability insurance with minimum coverage of $25,000 bodily injury and $25,000 property damage must accompany your application for a license as a private security guard company.

• Stay current with new developments in the field by joining a trade association that specializes in this sector.

References

• Washington State Department of Licensing: Private Security Guard Company
• Washington State Department of Licensing: Unarmed private security guard
• Washington State Department of Licensing: Armed Private Security Guard

Resources

• Washington State Department of Licensing: Master Business Application
• Washington State Department of Licensing: Check status of a business or professional license