Security Guard Exam Prep / West Virginia
Security Guard — WV
How to Get Your Security Guard License in West Virginia
To become a licensed security guard in West Virginia, you need Experience-based (1 year) for individual license hours of state-approved training, pass the No state exam — experience-based exam, and complete a background check through West Virginia Secretary of State. Here's everything you need to know.
License Details
- Licensing Body
- West Virginia Secretary of State
- Exam Provider
- No state exam — experience-based
- Training Hours
- Experience-based (1 year) for individual license hours
- Passing Score
- N/A
- Exam Fee
- ~$50 processing + $100 license (individual)
- Background Check
- Required (State Police background report)
Note: Always verify current requirements with West Virginia Secretary of State.
West Virginia Security Guard Notes
West Virginia registers guards through the Secretary of State. Employed guards are generally reported by their licensed company rather than individually licensed; an individual security-guard license requires about a year of qualifying experience/training, a $5,000 surety bond, character references, and a State Police background report. There is no statewide training-hours mandate or written exam.
How to Get Your Security Guard License in West Virginia
- 1
Complete required training
West Virginia requires Experience-based (1 year) for individual license hours of state-approved security guard training covering legal powers, emergency procedures, report writing, and patrol techniques.
- 2
Pass the written exam
No state exam — experience-based administers the security guard exam with a N/A passing score. Exam fee is ~$50 processing + $100 license (individual).
- 3
Complete a background check
Required (State Police background report) is required. Felony convictions typically disqualify applicants. Processing time varies by state.
- 4
Submit your license application
Apply to West Virginia Secretary of State with your training certificate, exam results, and background check clearance.
- 5
Maintain your license
Security guard licenses typically renew every 1–2 years. Many states require continuing education for renewal. Armed guard endorsements require separate firearms training and qualification.
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Practice for the West Virginia security guard exam
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