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Powered by DefencifyAlways verify directly with your state licensing agency
State Overview
West Virginia regulates the security guard industry through WV Secretary of State - Licensing Division under a licensed - individual framework. Training requirements: None state-mandated (employer discretion). Fee structure: $150 individual license.
West Virginia sits in the South region, with a licensed - individual regulatory posture.
Key Facts
Regulatory framework: Licensed - Individual
Licensing agency: WV Secretary of State - Licensing Division
Training: None state-mandated (employer discretion).
Fees: $150 individual license.
Processing time: 3-4 weeks
Renewal cycle: 2 years
Key restriction: Employees of licensed firms exempt.
eLearning, initial
No training mandate
eLearning, renewal
Training Hours
None mandated
Renewal: 2 years
License Fee
$150 individual license
3-4 weeks
Governing Agency
WV Secretary of State - Licensing Division
WV Code Chapter 30, Article 18
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Underestimating the 3-4 weeks processing window and starting work before approval is finalized.
Ignoring this restriction in operational planning: Employees of licensed firms exempt.
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 West Virginia require for unarmed security guards?
None state-mandated (employer discretion).
What does it cost to get a security guard license in West Virginia?
$150 individual license.
How long does West Virginia take to process a guard license application?
3-4 weeks
Can I take West Virginia guard training online?
West Virginia treats online training as n/a for initial coursework and n/a for renewal. Confirm specific course approval directly with WV Secretary of State - Licensing Division.
How often do I renew a security guard license in West Virginia?
License renewal cycle: 2 years.
Practical Tips
Plan for the published processing window: 3-4 weeks. Submit applications early to avoid coverage gaps.
Firm licensed; individual employees working for licensed firms exempt from individual licensing; $5,000 bond; 1 year experience required
Restriction to verify before hiring: Employees of licensed firms exempt
Direct line for verification: 304-558-8000. Use it before relying on third-party summaries.
Most recent regulatory change (2023-01-01): Fingerprinting shifted to IdentoGO; applicants now directed to IdentoGO after submission and return confirmation number to SOS office.
Recent Regulatory Changes
Fingerprinting shifted to IdentoGO; applicants now directed to IdentoGO after submission and return confirmation number to SOS office. No training mandate added.
See the "Regulatory Changes" tab for full history →