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State Overview
Alaska regulates the security guard industry through Alaska DPS, Permits and Licensing under a licensed - individual framework. Training requirements: Pre-assignment: 8 hours; In-service: 40 hours within 180 days; Armed: +8 hours; Annual refresher: 8 hours. Fee structure: Individual license: $50 application + $49.75 background check; Renewal: $50 (2-year cycle). Online (eLearning) eligibility: initial training is unlikely, renewal is unlikely for state approval.
Alaska sits in the West region, is classified Low priority for multi-state operators, with a licensed - individual regulatory posture.
Key Facts
Regulatory framework: Licensed - Individual
Licensing agency: Alaska DPS, Permits and Licensing
Training: Pre-assignment: 8 hours; In-service: 40 hours within 180 days; Armed: +8 hours; Annual refresher: 8 hours.
Fees: Individual license: $50 application + $49.75 background check; Renewal: $50 (2-year cycle).
Processing time: 4-6 weeks for renewal; initial not officially published
Online training (initial): Unlikely; (renewal): Unlikely
Renewal cycle: 2 years
eLearning, initial
Verify with agency
eLearning, renewal
Training Hours
8 pre + 40 in-service + 8/yr
Renewal: 2 years
License Fee
Individual license: $50 application + $4
4-6 weeks for renewal; initial not officially published
Governing Agency
Alaska DPS, Permits and Licensing
AS 18.65.400-18.65.490
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Underestimating the 4-6 weeks for renewal; initial not officially published processing window and starting work before approval is finalized.
Using a non-approved online course when Alaska requires in-person or partial-classroom training.
Submitting an incomplete background-check packet or expired fingerprint cards, both of which restart the processing clock.
Missing the 2 years renewal cycle and letting the license lapse, which forces a full re-application.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many training hours does Alaska require for unarmed security guards?
Pre-assignment: 8 hours; In-service: 40 hours within 180 days; Armed: +8 hours; Annual refresher: 8 hours.
What does it cost to get a security guard license in Alaska?
Individual license: $50 application + $49.75 background check; Renewal: $50 (2-year cycle).
How long does Alaska take to process a guard license application?
4-6 weeks for renewal; initial not officially published
Can I take Alaska guard training online?
Alaska treats online training as unlikely for initial coursework and unlikely for renewal. Confirm specific course approval directly with Alaska DPS, Permits and Licensing.
How often do I renew a security guard license in Alaska?
License renewal cycle: 2 years.
Practical Tips
Plan for the published processing window: 4-6 weeks for renewal; initial not officially published. Submit applications early to avoid coverage gaps.
30-day temporary work permit available; $500K liability insurance required
Direct line for verification: 907-269-0393. Use it before relying on third-party summaries.