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State Overview
Arkansas regulates the security guard industry through Arkansas State Police, Regulatory Services under a licensed - individual framework. Training requirements: Phase I: 8 hours (all guards); Phase II: 16 hours (armed/CSO - 8 classroom + 8 range); Phase III: 36 hours (CSSO school security). Fee structure: $25 initial guard card. Online (eLearning) eligibility: initial training is no, renewal is no for state approval.
Arkansas sits in the South region, is classified Low priority for multi-state operators, with a licensed - individual regulatory posture.
Key Facts
Regulatory framework: Licensed - Individual
Licensing agency: Arkansas State Police, Regulatory Services
Training: Phase I: 8 hours (all guards); Phase II: 16 hours (armed/CSO - 8 classroom + 8 range); Phase III: 36 hours (CSSO school security).
Fees: $25 initial guard card.
Processing time: 2-3 weeks
Online training (initial): No; (renewal): No
Renewal cycle: 2 years; PSO: 6-hr renewal; CSO: 12-hr renewal
eLearning, initial
Classroom required
eLearning, renewal
Training Hours
8 hrs Phase I; 24 hrs armed
Renewal: 2 years; PSO: 6-hr renewal; CSO: 12-hr renewal
License Fee
$25 initial guard card
2-3 weeks
Governing Agency
Arkansas State Police, Regulatory Services
A.C.A. §§ 17-40-101 through 17-40-356
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Underestimating the 2-3 weeks processing window and starting work before approval is finalized.
Ignoring this restriction in operational planning: IOI-approved trainers required.
Using a non-approved online course when Arkansas requires in-person or partial-classroom training.
Submitting an incomplete background-check packet or expired fingerprint cards, both of which restart the processing clock.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many training hours does Arkansas require for unarmed security guards?
Phase I: 8 hours (all guards); Phase II: 16 hours (armed/CSO - 8 classroom + 8 range); Phase III: 36 hours (CSSO school security).
What does it cost to get a security guard license in Arkansas?
$25 initial guard card.
How long does Arkansas take to process a guard license application?
2-3 weeks
Can I take Arkansas guard training online?
Arkansas treats online training as no for initial coursework and no for renewal. Confirm specific course approval directly with Arkansas State Police, Regulatory Services.
How often do I renew a security guard license in Arkansas?
License renewal cycle: 2 years; PSO: 6-hr renewal; CSO: 12-hr renewal.
Practical Tips
Plan for the published processing window: 2-3 weeks. Submit applications early to avoid coverage gaps.
Credential types: PSO (unarmed), CSO (armed), CSSO (school); CSSO requires ALERRT Active Shooter training
Restriction to verify before hiring: IOI-approved trainers required
Direct line for verification: (501) 618-8400. Use it before relying on third-party summaries.
Most recent regulatory change (2025-08-05): All PSO/CSO/PI identification cards now disseminated electronically via email rather than by mail.
Recent Regulatory Changes
All PSO/CSO/PI identification cards now disseminated electronically via email rather than by mail. Physical card delivery eliminated.
See the "Regulatory Changes" tab for full history →