Starting a career in the security field is one of the most practical and reliable decisions today. With strong job demand in New York and increasing safety requirements across workplaces, security guards play a crucial role in maintaining order and protecting people and property. But a common question every beginner asks is: how much time security license take before you can officially start working?
The answer depends on several steps in the licensing process, including training hours, application processing, and background checks. Understanding this timeline helps you plan better, start sooner, and avoid unnecessary delays. Below, we explain the complete process so you know exactly what to expect.
1. Step One: Complete the 8-Hour Pre-Assignment Training (1 Day)
The first requirement for every new security guard in New York is the 8-Hour Pre-Assignment Training Course. This is a one-day introductory class that gives you the basic understanding of security responsibilities, ethics, and legal concepts.
Good news—you can start applying for jobs immediately after finishing this course, even before receiving your full license, as long as the employer allows it.
If you enrol through a trusted training centre like KTI NYC, you can complete this requirement quickly and move to the next step without delay.
2. Step Two: Submit Your Security Guard License Application (1–2 Weeks for Filing)
Once you finish your 8-hour class, you must submit your official application to the New York State Division of Licensing Services. This includes:
- Your course certificate
- Your fingerprinting receipt
- Application form and fees
- Proof of identification
How much time security license take after submission?
On average, the state may take 2–4 weeks to process your application, depending on verification speed and background check results.
You are allowed to work during this period if your employer accepts the receipt showing your application is pending.
3. Step Three: Complete Fingerprinting (Same Day – 48 Hours)
Fingerprinting is mandatory for the background check, which is a critical part of the approval process. You can complete it:
The fingerprint result is usually processed within 24–48 hours, but it may take longer if additional verification is required.
Delays in fingerprint scheduling or errors in your ID documents are among the most common reasons people wait longer before receiving their license.
4. Step Four: Finish the 16-Hour On-the-Job Training Course (Within 90 Days)
Once you begin working, New York State requires you to complete the 16-Hour On-the-Job Training Course within the first 90 days of employment.
This class covers:
- Emergency response
- Professional communication
- Conflict handling
- Legal responsibilities
- Access control procedures
Although this course doesn’t affect the processing time of your license, completing it on time protects you from job interruptions and ensures you remain compliant.
Total Time Before You Can Start Working: SAME WEEK
Because many employers allow you to work while your license is processing, you can often start your job within the same week of completing your first training class.
Total Time to Receive Your License: 2–4 Weeks
This is the usual timeframe for the state to mail your official security guard license.
How KTI NYC Helps Speed Up the Process
At KTI NYC, we streamline the entire process to help you get job-ready as quickly as possible. Through our training services, students benefit from:
- Same-day certificates
- Guidance on the application process
- Fingerprinting instructions
- Fast scheduling for both 8-hour and 16-hour courses
We also provide additional resources, including license renewal guidance, available here:
https://ktinyc.com/how-to-renew-or-update-your-nys-security-guard-license/
With expert instructors and flexible class options, KTI NYC ensures you complete each requirement without delays—so you can begin working in the security field confidently and professionally.
Final Thoughts
So, how much time security license take before you can start working? While the full licensing process may take a few weeks, you can often begin working much sooner—sometimes within just a few days. By completing your training with a reliable institute like KTI NYC and submitting your documents promptly, you can move into your new security career faster than you may have expected.
FAQ:
1. How much time security license take in New York?
The processing time for a New York security license typically takes 2–4 weeks after you submit your application, fingerprinting, and documents. However, many employers allow you to start working immediately after completing the 8-Hour Pre-Assignment Training and submitting your pending application.
2. How much time security license take before I can legally start a job?
You can often start working within the same week you complete your 8-hour training, as long as the employer accepts your pending application receipt. Your official license will arrive later by mail.
3. What factors can delay how much time security license take?
Common delays include incomplete applications, incorrect documents, slow fingerprinting results, and high processing volume. Submitting accurate information and completing fingerprinting quickly helps avoid delays.