Many candidates searching for security guard licence in India, PSARA security guard registration, or security guard training certificate assume that every guard must obtain a government licence independently. However, the Private Security Agencies (Regulation) Act, 2005 primarily requires the private security agency to hold a PSARA licence. An individual security guard is generally recruited, verified and trained by a licensed agency, which then issues the guard a photo identity card.
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Therefore, candidates seeking security guard jobs should focus on completing approved training, passing character verification and joining a licensed private security company.
Is a PSARA Licence Required for an Individual Guard?
A PSARA licence is required to operate the business of a private security agency. It is not ordinarily an independent business licence that every employee applies for personally.
The security agency must ensure that its guards receive the prescribed training and meet eligibility requirements. Once employed, every private security guard must receive a photo identity card from the agency and carry it while on duty.
Candidates should avoid agents who promise to issue a “government security guard licence” instantly in exchange for a large payment.
Eligibility to Become a Security Guard
Under the Central Model Rules, a person seeking employment as a private security guard should generally:
- Be an Indian citizen
- Be between 18 and 65 years of age
- Meet the prescribed physical and medical standards
- Pass character and antecedent verification
- Not have a disqualifying criminal conviction
- Not have been removed from certain government, police, armed forces or security employment for misconduct or moral turpitude
The exact recruitment conditions may differ because states and Union Territories implement their own PSARA rules and procedures.
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Complete Security Guard Training
A new security guard must undergo training through the employing agency or a recognised security training institution. Under the 2020 Central Model Rules, entry-level training includes at least 100 hours of classroom instruction and 60 hours of field training spread across a minimum of 20 working days.
Former police personnel and ex-servicemen may complete a condensed course of at least 40 classroom hours and 16 field-training hours over a minimum of seven working days.
Training commonly covers physical security, access control, patrolling, fire safety, first aid, crowd management, emergency response, document checking and communication with the police.
After successful completion, the recognised training organisation provides a training certificate confirming that the candidate has completed the prescribed programme according to applicable skill standards.
Documents Required
Candidates usually need an Aadhaar card, recent photographs, proof of age, permanent and present address proof, educational certificates and bank details. The agency may also request a medical fitness report, police verification papers and an affidavit containing the candidate’s personal and employment declarations.
Applicants must submit the prescribed character and antecedent verification information to the security agency. Verification may be completed using a valid certificate or through authorised police and criminal-record databases.
Step-by-Step Application Process
First, identify a licensed private security agency or recognised training institution in your state. The official PSARA portal provides information about licensed agencies and registered training institutions.
Submit your job application and documents to the agency. Complete police or antecedent verification, undergo the required medical examination and attend the prescribed security training.
After training and selection, the agency will issue an appointment document, uniform and photo identity card. The ID card should show the guard’s name, photograph, agency name, employee number, position and validity details.
Security Guard Licence Fees
There is no single nationwide personal licence fee for an individual security guard. Training, medical examination, uniform and document-processing charges may differ by state, institute and employer.
Candidates should request a written fee receipt and verify that the agency or training centre is officially recognised. Avoid paying large cash amounts without checking the organisation’s licence status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply directly for a PSARA licence as a guard?
PSARA licensing primarily applies to agencies operating a private security business. Individual guards are trained and employed through licensed agencies.
Is police verification compulsory?
Character and antecedent verification is an important part of the recruitment process.
How long does security guard training take?
Entry-level training under the Central Model Rules is spread over at least 20 working days.
Does the security guard ID remain valid after leaving?
The guard must return the agency-issued identity card when employment with that agency ends.
Can a 10th pass candidate become a security guard?
Yes. Educational requirements depend on the employer, but many agencies hire 10th or 12th pass candidates.