Nevada PILB Armed Security Guard Requirements
Armed security guards often enjoy better-paying work opportunities, and more dynamic assignments, compared to unarmed guards. However, if you want to step into an armed security role in the Silver State, you’ll need to meet the Nevada armed guard requirements.
Becoming an armed security guard will mean obtaining the appropriate certification, often referred to as a “Nevada armed guard card.” Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is the Nevada PILB?
The State of Nevada Private Investigators Licensing Board (PILB) regulates private investigators and security guards. According to Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) 648.030, the PILB is also authorized to require armed guard license applicants to complete a firearm safety course.
The Private Investigators Licensing Board used this authority to create a 13-hour training requirement for armed security guard applicants. This course includes both a classroom and a live-fire portion. Candidates must pass both portions to obtain their certification.
The PILB charges an $85.00 licensing fee for all security guard card applications, which takes approximately two weeks to process. You can pay an additional $44.00 to expedite the application process, which will shorten the waiting period to about three to four business days.
Note that these fees don’t include the costs of photos or fingerprints, both of which will be required as part of your background check.
Basic Eligibility Criteria for a Nevada Armed Guard Card
Before seeking an armed security guard position in Nevada, you must meet the following prerequisites:
- Age: Be at least 21 years old.
- Citizenship: Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
- Criminal record: Have no felony convictions of crimes involving the illegal use of weapons.
- Background check: Successfully pass a comprehensive criminal background check.
- Identification: Possess a valid Nevada driver’s license or state-issued ID.
The PILB also requires you to obtain your unarmed security guard license to be eligible for an armed guard card. There are no training requirements for an unarmed or “work card” — all you have to do is pass a background check, and a 30-question written exam.
If you meet these requirements, the next step is to find an employer that will sponsor you to take the armed certification course.
Why Securing Employment and Sponsorship Is Essential
The Private Investigators Licensing Board won’t allow you to take the Nevada Armed Guard certification course unless you’re employed by a Licensed Armed Security Provider (LASP). A LASP is a business the State of Nevada has authorized to provide armed security services.
Once you’re employed by a Licensed Armed Security Provider, they can add you to their digital roster (for verification purposes).
Your employer will also need to provide you with a signed Verification of Employment Armed Security (VEAS) form. You’ll need to take the form to a Certified Firearm Instructor (CFI) and enroll in an approved armed guard training course.
State authorities won’t allow you to obtain an armed security guard card on your own. You must be employed by a licensee, and possess a security work card.
What Training Is Required To Obtain a Nevada Armed Guard Certification?
The Private Investigators Licensing Board requires prospective licensees to complete two phases of training, which are as follows:
Classroom Instruction
While applicants are often excited to get out on the range, the eight-hour classroom portion is just as important as the practical aspect of the training course.
Getting in the classroom, and learning the applicable Nevada statutes, will help you perform your duties as an armed security guard lawfully. During the classroom portion of the course, your instructor will cover several key legal topics, including:
- Use of force
- Arrests
- Use of deadly force
- Authority and limitations as a security guard
The class will also touch on critical firearms safety topics, such as how to carry your weapon while on and off duty. It’s vital to retain as much of this information as possible, so you can excel in your new role. You’ll be provided training materials, which you can (and should) review periodically after becoming an armed security guard.
You’ll have to take a written exam at the end of the class. The PILB requires all applicants to achieve a score of 75% or higher.
Range Training
The second portion of your armed security guard training experience will involve five hours on the range. Your instructors will go over the basics of firearm handling, and help familiarize you with your equipment. The items you’ll need include:
- Your firearm
- A gun belt
- A holster
- Belt keepers
- At least two magazines (three is preferred)
- Magazine pouches
- At least two speedloaders (if qualifying with a revolver)
- 200 rounds of ammunition
It’s important to bring the firearm and equipment you’ll be using while on duty. Your employer may provide these items; however, if you’re responsible for purchasing your own firearm and gear, make sure to get it set up and ready to go before arriving at class.
During the range day, you’ll be shooting from a variety of positions and distances. The goal is to assess, and enhance your safety habits and shooting skills, while also familiarizing you with various shooting conditions.
At the end of the range day, you’ll be required to pass a firearms qualification course using a B27 silhouette target. The timed course begins when you’re instructed to draw your firearm from your holster. From there, you’ll shoot from 3, 7, and 15 yards from both standing and kneeling positions.
You must earn a score of 75% (225/300) or higher to pass. During the course, only shots that impact in the seven-point ring or better will be counted.
Can You Complete Both Portions of the Training Class at the Same Location?
Absolutely. You can satisfy the Nevada armed guard requirements by finding a training facility that offers two-day armed guard courses.
If you’re looking for a convenient way to meet both training requirements for your Nevada Armed Guard certification, book a course at The Range 702.
Our experienced team of Certified Firearm Instructors will put you through a fun, yet challenging two-day armed guard training class. Both days run from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The course costs $150 per person.
On day one, you’ll receive eight hours of classroom training. Our knowledgeable instructors will cover all required classroom topics, and provide relevant real-world examples to reinforce information retention. You’ll be required to pass a written test at the end of the classroom portion of the training course.
On day two, our instructors will guide you through the range portion of the course. Our indoor facility is climate-controlled and state of the art, which provides a safe and engaging shooting experience.
If you pass both the written test and the range qualification, you’ll be eligible to receive a Nevada armed guard card, and begin working as an armed security guard.
Submitting Documentation and Obtaining Your Armed Guard Card
Once you’ve completed your certification, your CFI will submit all the necessary paperwork to the PILB within five days. The board will then issue you a hard plastic permanent work card that reflects your armed status.
Maintaining Your Certification
To maintain your Nevada armed guard certification, you’ll be required to complete an armed guard re-qualification course every six months. This range-only course helps to ensure that you’re maintaining adequate shooting skills, and practicing safe firearms habits. You will need to re-qualify with the exact same model and caliber of firearm that you initially qualified with.
Here’s what you’ll need to bring to the course:
- Your duty pistol
- A holster
- 30 rounds of ammunition
- Two magazines
- Your current PILB armed guard license
- A valid government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
The re-qualification course uses the same B27 silhouette target used during the initial certification course. To pass, you’ll need to score a minimum of 75% (225/300), and only impacts in the seven-point ring or better will count toward your score.
The timed course consists of the the same distances and positions (3, 7, and 15 yards – standing and kneeling) that your initial qualification did.
Additionally, the course calls for two mandatory reloads, which will take place at the seven and 15-yard courses of fire.
The Range 702 offers a Nevada armed guard re-qualification course for $40.00, but you’re required to provide all supplies (with the exception of the target).
Additional Considerations
The Nevada Armed Guard requirements are relatively simple. However, it’s important to take the proper steps to avoid delays. With that in mind, make it a point to do the following:
- Bring all required gear to your training class
- Be prepared to pay fingerprinting and application fees
Remember, you must pass both your written exam, and your firearms qualification to obtain your Nevada armed guard card. If you’ve never fired a gun before, or have limited experience with firearms, you may want to book some one-on-one training before signing up for your course.
During your private session, an experienced instructor will walk you through the basics of firearm safety. You can rent a gun at our range or bring your own. If you’re already employed by a Licensed Armed Security Provider, but haven’t yet been issued a firearm, make sure you rent the same make and model you’ll be carrying on duty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Have To Provide Your Own Firearm?
You do not need to use your own firearm, but be aware that the qualification will only certify you on the model and caliber of firearm you use during the shooting qualification portion. If your employer requires a specific firearm to be carried on duty, make sure you use that model and caliber for the shooting portion.
How Many Rounds of Ammunition Should You Bring?
You’re required to bring 200 rounds of ammunition to the two-day armed guard training course. If you’re attending a re-qualification course, you’ll need 30 rounds of ammunition.
What Else Will You Need?
If you’re qualifying with a semi-auto handgun, you’re required to bring at least two magazines. However, we recommend bringing three. If you’re qualifying with a revolver, you must have at least two speedloaders. You’ll also need to bring your holster, a proper gun belt, and keepers.
Sign Up for Your Armed Guard Training Class Today
Now that you know how to obtain your Nevada armed guard card, the next step is to find an eligible employer and sign up for your class. Use the tips above to prepare yourself for your course, and jumpstart your career as an armed security guard.
Book your two-day armed guard training class today at The Range 702.
