TENNESSEE SECURITY GUARD GUIDE

Tennessee Security Guard Industry Overview

Tennessee's private security industry is regulated by the Private Protective Services Licensing Board, a division of the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance. The state requires all security guards and security companies to be properly registered and licensed before conducting business.

The security guard industry in Tennessee has grown significantly in recent years. Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga represent the largest markets for security services, driven by demand from commercial properties, residential communities, healthcare facilities, and special events.

Tennessee distinguishes between unarmed security officers (who perform access control, patrol, and monitoring duties) and armed security officers (who carry firearms and handle higher-risk assignments). Each category has its own set of requirements and training mandates.

Basic Requirements for All Security Guards

To work as a security guard in Tennessee, you must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Be a United States citizen or legal resident
• Have a clean criminal background (felony convictions are generally disqualifying)
• Pass a comprehensive background check conducted by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI)
• Complete state-mandated training hours
• Be employed by or contracted through a licensed security company
• Possess a valid state-issued identification
• Be physically and mentally capable of performing security duties

Unarmed Security Guard Registration

Unarmed security guards in Tennessee must register with the state through their employing security company. The process includes:

1. Employment: Secure employment with a Tennessee-licensed security company
2. Background check: Submit to a TBI criminal background investigation
3. Training: Complete the required pre-assignment training hours
4. Registration: Your employer files your registration with the Private Protective Services Division
5. ID card: Receive your security officer registration card

Unarmed guards typically work in access control, lobby security, parking enforcement, event crowd management, and routine patrol positions.

Armed Security Guard Certification

Armed security guards must meet all unarmed requirements plus additional firearms qualifications:

• Be at least 21 years of age (higher than unarmed requirement)
• Complete a state-approved firearms training course
• Pass a firearms proficiency test at an approved range
• Qualify with each specific firearm type they will carry on duty
• Submit to an enhanced background check
• Maintain firearms qualification through annual re-certification

Armed guards are commonly deployed to banks, jewelry stores, pharmaceutical facilities, construction sites with valuable materials, executive protection details, and high-risk commercial properties.

Training Requirements

Tennessee mandates specific training curricula for security guards. Training typically covers:

Costs and Fees

The following costs are typical for security guard licensing in Tennessee:

Many security companies, including Shield of Steel, cover training and licensing costs for employees as part of their onboarding process.

License Renewal

Security guard registrations in Tennessee must be renewed periodically. Key renewal requirements include:

• Renewal application submitted before expiration
• Continuing education or refresher training (if required)
• Updated background check
• Armed guards: Annual firearms re-qualification
• Payment of renewal fees

Failure to renew on time can result in suspension of your ability to work as a security guard until the renewal is processed.

For Employers: Hiring Security Guards in Tennessee

If you are a business owner, property manager, or HOA board member looking to hire security guards in Tennessee, here is what you need to know:

• Use a licensed company: Always hire through a Tennessee-licensed security company, never independent contractors claiming to be security guards
• Verify licensing: Ask for the company's state license number and verify it with the Private Protective Services Division
• Insurance: Ensure the security company carries adequate general liability and workers' compensation insurance
• Training records: Request documentation of guard training and qualifications
• Background checks: Confirm all guards have passed state-mandated background checks
• Contract terms: Get a clear service agreement covering scope, hours, response protocols, and liability

Tennessee Security Laws and Regulations

Key Tennessee statutes governing private security include:

• Tennessee Code Annotated Title 62, Chapter 35: Private Protective Services Licensing and Regulatory Act
• TCA 39-17-1351: Regulations regarding security guards carrying firearms
• TCA 62-35-126: Requirements for security company licensing

Security guards in Tennessee are not law enforcement officers. Their authority is limited to the property they are assigned to protect. They may detain individuals only under specific circumstances (shopkeeper's privilege / citizen's arrest provisions), and the use of force must always be proportional and reasonable.