A security guard license is also known as a guard card. The North Carolina Department of Justice issues licenses to practice private surveillance. The Private Protective Services Board in North Carolina administers the requirements for obtaining a license to be able to provide services as a security guard. The basic requirements include being at least 18 years old, having a high school diploma, being a United States citizen or alien resident and having no felony convictions.

Request and complete the application packet. The application packet is not available online. It can be mailed to you by contacting the Licensing Unit of the North Carolina Private Protective Services Board.

Complete the fingerprint card. The fingerprint card must contain complete and accurate information. It should also be readable.

E-mail a digital photograph of yourself to the Private Protective Services. The current e-mail address is PPSASL-Photos@ncdoj.gov. Use the *jpeg (.jpg) format to submit the photograph. Include your last name, first name, last four digits of your Social Security number and type of license as the name of the photograph.

Provide proof of high school diploma or equivalent and documentation verifying legal resident alien status if you are not a U.S. citizen.

Submit the nonrefundable application fee and the additional fee for the fingerprint check. Fees can be paid by personal check or money order. Make out the check or money order to the Private Protective Services Board of North Carolina.

Submit the application packet to the Private Protective Service. All information should be complete, leaving no blanks. The application packet can be submitted in person or by mail.