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State Overview
New York's security guard system is administered by both the Department of State (DOS, registration) and DCJS (training standards). With approximately 150,000 registered guards, New York has one of the largest security workforces in the US. Full virtual/online training through DCJS-approved schools is permitted, and the application fee is one of the most affordable at $36.
New York is one of the world's largest private security markets, anchored by New York City. Major employers include Allied Universal, Securitas, and G4S, plus hundreds of specialized local companies. Key sectors: financial services (Wall Street), healthcare (NY-Presbyterian, Mount Sinai, etc.), real estate (the largest commercial real estate market globally), and transportation security (MTA, JFK, LaGuardia, Newark).
Key Facts
Dual-agency system: DOS handles registration, DCJS handles training standards
8-hour pre-assignment training + 16-hour OJT within 90 days + 8-hour annual in-service = 32 hours total
Full online/virtual training through DCJS-approved schools is permitted
Registration fee: $36 (one of the lowest in the US)
Biennial renewal
Armed guards need an additional 47-hour firearms program
No reciprocity with other states
eLearning, initial
Full online permitted
eLearning, renewal
Training Hours
32 hrs (8+16+8/yr); 79 hrs armed
Renewal: 2 years
License Fee
$36 registration
4-8 weeks
Governing Agency
NY Dept. of State (DOS) / NY DCJS
GBL Article 7-A (§89-E through 89-W)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Missing the 90-day OJT completion deadline
Scheduling annual in-service training too late in the year
Confusing DOS registration (needed to work) with DCJS training (what the courses are based on)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can all of my New York security guard training be done online?
Yes, DCJS permits virtual/online training through approved schools for all components of the 32-hour requirement including pre-assignment and annual in-service training. Firearms qualification for armed guards must still be done in person.
I have guards starting in New York next week, can they work while completing the OJT?
Yes, the 8-hour pre-assignment training must be completed before they start, but the 16-hour OJT can be completed during the first 90 days of employment. Ensure they start the OJT training immediately upon hire.
What are the different types of security guard registrations in New York?
There are three types: Registered Security Guard (unarmed), Special Armed Guard (can carry firearms), and Armored Car Guard. Each has different training requirements. Most civilian security positions use the Registered Security Guard classification.
Practical Tips
The 16-hour OJT is done on the job but must be completed within 90 days, don't leave it to week 12
DCJS-approved school list changes periodically, verify approval status before enrolling staff
Annual 8-hour in-service is a per-calendar-year requirement (not based on hire anniversary in some interpretations), confirm timing with your agency
$36 application fee means budget impact of NY registration is minimal
Recent Regulatory Changes
NYC Aland Etienne Safety and Security Act (Int 1391-2025) enacted via Council override (46-5 vote). Sets first private-sector security guard minimum wage in NYC since 1964: $26.49/hour, 8 paid holidays, paid vacation, supplemental benefits matching city-contract guard compensation. Phased rollout: matching hourly wages effective January 2027, paid time off (holidays/vacation/sick) effective January 2028, health/disability/retirement parity effective January 2029. Estimated to cover ~60,000 NYC private-sector security guards. Named for guard killed at 345 Park Ave.
NY DOS streamlined security guard registration portal, online renewal now fully electronic with no paper backup required. Processing time improved to 4-6 weeks for new registrations. DCJS-approved schools list updated; providers must reconfirm approval status annually.
See the "Regulatory Changes" tab for full history →