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State Overview
North Dakota regulates the security guard industry through North Dakota Private Investigation and Security Board (NDPISB) under a licensed - individual framework. Training requirements: Tier 1 (Apprentice): 12 hours; Tier 2 (Security Officer): 32 hours + 1,000 hrs experience; Tier 3 (Commissioned): 80 hours + 4,000 hrs experience. Fee structure: $100 application + $40 background check + $150 license = $290 total; employee registration $70/person; armed status +$30; agency +$300. Online (eLearning) eligibility: initial training is no, renewal is unlikely for state approval.
North Dakota sits in the Midwest region, is classified Low priority for multi-state operators, with a licensed - individual regulatory posture.
Key Facts
Regulatory framework: Licensed - Individual
Licensing agency: North Dakota Private Investigation and Security Board (NDPISB)
Training: Tier 1 (Apprentice): 12 hours; Tier 2 (Security Officer): 32 hours + 1,000 hrs experience; Tier 3 (Commissioned): 80 hours + 4,000 hrs experience.
Fees: $100 application + $40 background check + $150 license = $290 total; employee registration $70/person; armed status +$30; agency +$300.
Processing time: ~30 business days; provisional card issued after fingerprints submitted
Online training (initial): No; (renewal): Unlikely
Renewal cycle: Annual (expires September 30)
eLearning, initial
Classroom required
eLearning, renewal
Training Hours
12-80 hrs (tiered)
Renewal: Annual (expires September 30)
License Fee
$100 application + $40 background check
~30 business days; provisional card issued after fingerprints submitted
Governing Agency
North Dakota Private Investigation and Security Board (NDPISB)
NDCC Chapter 43-30
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Underestimating the ~30 business days; provisional card issued after fingerprints submitted processing window and starting work before approval is finalized.
Ignoring this restriction in operational planning: Board-certified instructor required.
Using a non-approved online course when North Dakota 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 North Dakota require for unarmed security guards?
Tier 1 (Apprentice): 12 hours; Tier 2 (Security Officer): 32 hours + 1,000 hrs experience; Tier 3 (Commissioned): 80 hours + 4,000 hrs experience.
What does it cost to get a security guard license in North Dakota?
$100 application + $40 background check + $150 license = $290 total; employee registration $70/person; armed status +$30; agency +$300.
How long does North Dakota take to process a guard license application?
~30 business days; provisional card issued after fingerprints submitted
Can I take North Dakota guard training online?
North Dakota treats online training as no for initial coursework and unlikely for renewal. Confirm specific course approval directly with North Dakota Private Investigation and Security Board (NDPISB).
How often do I renew a security guard license in North Dakota?
License renewal cycle: Annual (expires September 30).
Practical Tips
Plan for the published processing window: ~30 business days; provisional card issued after fingerprints submitted. Submit applications early to avoid coverage gaps.
Three-tier system; Armed requires Tier 2 minimum + written exam + range test
Restriction to verify before hiring: Board-certified instructor required
Direct line for verification: 701-222-3063. Use it before relying on third-party summaries.
Most recent regulatory change (2026-04-10): New Armed First Responder training program approved at Personal Defense Center, Bismarck.
Recent Regulatory Changes
New Armed First Responder training program approved at Personal Defense Center, Bismarck.
FBI fingerprint fee reduced by $1.25, lowering employee registration from $71.25 to $70.00.
See the "Regulatory Changes" tab for full history →