Armed Security Guard License Class

Armed Security License Training Class TN Reservation Fee

THIS IS A NON-REFUNDABLE RESERVATION FEE All sales of products and services are final. If you do not attend the class on the training date selected your exclusive and sole remedy is to re-schedule for an alternate training date within 60 days of the original training date selected. THE TOTAL COST…

Alliance Training & Testing LLC

INTRO

Enroll in Alliance Training & Testing’s comprehensive 16-hour Armed Security Guard License Training Class in Nashville for $160. This state-approved course meets all requirements under Tenn. Code Ann. § 62-35-118 and prepares you for licensure as an armed security officer in Tennessee.

DESCRIPTION

COURSE COMPLIANCE

This state-approved course meets all requirements under Tenn. Code Ann. § 62-35-118 and prepares you for licensure as an armed security officer in Tennessee. Complete our state-approved certification course and meet state requirements to obtain your Tennessee Armed Security Guard License.

Launch your career as an armed security officer with confidence with the best armed security guard training in Tennessee. Enroll in Alliance Training & Testing's comprehensive 16-hour Armed Security Guard License Training Class in Nashville, TN. Choose our armed security guard training to invest in your future as a respected security professional.

Alliance Training and Testing empowers you to thrive in the security industry.

• Our state-of-the-art training center in Nashville, TN provides a dynamic learning environment led by expert certified trainers with extensive experience.
• Our intensive 16-hour training curriculum covers everything you need to know, from firearm laws and legal responsibilities to weapon manipulation and tactical situations.
• Get ready for real-world situations with our hands-on range training and develop practical firearm handling skills.

PRICE

$160

Price: $160 (Reservation Fee $35 + Training $125)

Location: Royal Range USA, 7741 US-70S, Nashville, TN 37221

COURSE PRE-REQUISITES

This course is not designed for beginners. Students must be proficient in safe pistol operation and confident in weapon manipulation skills before registering.

Please review our How to Get a TN Security Guard License page for the full Checklist of Requirements and Tasks.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

• At least 21 years of age.
• U.S. citizen or legal resident alien.
• Good moral character.
• No disqualifying felonies or specified misdemeanors within the past 5 years.
• No convictions for crimes involving firearms, shoplifting, or violence within the past 5 years.
• Free from disabilities that prevent performing security duties.
• Not suffering from habitual drunkenness or drug addiction.
• Not declared incompetent by a court (unless restored).

COURSE REQUIREMENTS & STANDARD OF CONDUCT

• Completing the course, quizzes, and exams is an individual effort.
• You must pass two multiple-choice tests and the marksmanship qualification (minimum 70%).
• Any attempt to skip or manipulate required material is grounds for expulsion with no refund.
• The Trainee is responsible for applying to the State of Tennessee and paying all applicable fees.
• Must submit electronic fingerprints for processing TBI and/or FBI criminal history checks.
• Day One Requirements (8 Hours):
  • 4 Hours - General Training (Orientation, Legal Powers and Limitations, Emergency Procedures, General Duties).
  • 4 Hours - Armed Classroom Instruction (Legal Limitations on Firearm Use, Firearm Handling, Safety and Maintenance).
• Day Two Requirements (8 Hours):
  • 4 Hours - Armed Classroom Instruction (Continued).
  • 4 Hours - Firearms Training (Marksmanship training and qualification).
  • Equipment required: Pistol, Magazine, Holster, Duty Belt or Sturdy Belt.
  • Equipment required: Ear & Eye Protection.
  • Equipment required: 50 Rounds of Factory Ammunition (No Reloads).
  • Approved calibers: .380, 9mm, .32, .38, .40, .45, .357 Sig.
  • Additional pistols: $30 each + 25 rounds + spare magazine.

TERMS OF USE

By making this purchase, you affirm that you:

• You can speak and understand English.
• You are eligible for Armed Security Officer/Guard training by the State of Tennessee Private Protective Services requirements.
• You are eligible to work in Tennessee and meet all Citizenship Eligibility Requirements by the State of Tennessee Private Protective Services requirements.
• Alliance Training and Testing LLC is a privately owned and operated training center.
• We reserve the right to refuse to train or certify any student for any reason.
• We do not guarantee successful completion or licensure.

RETURN POLICY – ALL SALES ARE FINAL

• This is a Non-Refundable Reservation Fee.
• No exchanges, returns, or refunds of any kind.
• If you do not attend the class on the selected training date, your exclusive and sole remedy is to reschedule for an alternate training date within 60 days of the original training date.
• By purchasing, you agree to this Return Policy.

LEARNING OBJECTIVE & COURSE GOALS

• This course prepares individuals to obtain a license as armed security officers in Tennessee.
• Understand the definition, roles, responsibilities, and authority of an Armed Security Guard/Officer.
• Recognize the importance of de-escalation techniques to prevent the unnecessary use of force.
• Comprehend the Tennessee Private Protective Services Licensing and Regulatory Act, which serves as a guide for conduct.
• Understand the legal limitations on firearm use under Tennessee Code Annotated 62-35-118(b)(1)(A), including consequences of misuse.
• Learn proper firearm safety, maintenance, and storage, as well as safe cleaning practices under § 62-35-118(b)(1)(C).
• Prepare mentally for potential deadly force situations and the vital statistics involved.
• Be aware of local, state, and federal firearms laws and landmark cases affecting the use of deadly force.
• Grasp the Use of Force Continuum, with an emphasis on de-escalation.
• Know basic firearm safety rules and types commonly used in Armed Security.
• Familiarize yourself with firearm terminology, shooting stances, and fundamentals.
• Always unload firearms before cleaning and maintain them effectively.
• Recognize specified range commands and the reasoning behind them.
• Practice safe gun handling skills, including muzzle control and trigger discipline.
• Identify and correct different types of stoppages (e.g., empty weapon, misfire).
• Demonstrate proper grip, shooting stance, sight alignment, and trigger control necessary for duty weapon qualifications.

SUGGESTED AUDIENCE

• For those looking to join the ranks of Armed Security Guards or Officers in Tennessee, the training is not just a formality but a practical preparation for your future role.
• The training will give you the confidence and skills to perform your duties effectively, ensuring you are competent and proficient.

LOCATION & TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Location: Royal Range USA 7741 US-70S, Nashville, TN 37221
• Equipment Required: Pistol, magazine, holster, duty belt or sturdy belt, ear & eye protection, and 50 rounds of factory ammunition (no reloads).

CLASS SCHEDULE - ATTENDANCE - COMPLETION

16 Hours Total – Two Days

• The schedule is two days, 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM.
• Please register at least 24 hours in advance by using the link on this page.
• If you miss the class, your sole remedy is to reschedule within 60 days of the original date.
• Armed students must pass (2) multiple-choice tests & a marksmanship test scoring 70% or greater to successfully complete the Armed training.

General Training (4 hours): This foundational course provides an overview of security work, including orientation, the legal powers and limitations of a security guard, emergency procedures, and general duties.

Firearms Training (8 hours): This course focuses on responsible firearm use, encompassing legal limitations, firearm handling, and essential safety and maintenance practices.

Marksmanship Training (4 hours): Participants refine their firearm proficiency through a commissioner-approved silhouette-target course, in which achieving a minimum score of 70% demonstrates competency.

Day One (8 Hours)

• No weapons required
• 4 Hours - Unarmed Classroom Instruction (Orientation, Legal Powers and Limitations, Emergency Procedures, General Duties)
• 4 Hours - Armed Classroom Instruction (Legal Limitations on Firearm Use, Firearm Handling, Safety and Maintenance)

Day Two (8 Hours)

• Pistol, Magazine, Holster, Duty Belt or Sturdy Belt, Ear & Eye Protection, 50 Rounds of Ammunition
• (Factory Ammo Only / No Reloads)
• 4 Hours - Armed Classroom Instruction (Continued)
• 4 Hours - Firearms Training (Marksmanship training and qualification)

2026 CLASS DATES

COURSE TOPICS

This course includes an examination covering subjects in which the individual must have training for licensure as an armed security officer in Tennessee.

General - Unarmed Training: In accordance with requirements under Tenn. Code Ann. § 62-35-118, all candidates must complete a 4-Hour General Training course.

• (1) Hour Orientation
• (1) Hour Legal Powers and Limitations of a Security Guard/Officer
• (1) Hour Emergency Procedures
• (1) Hour General Duties

Armed Classroom & Range Qualification: In accordance with requirements under Tenn. Code Ann. § 62-35-118, all candidates must complete a 12-hour Armed Firearms Training course.

• (4) Hours Legal Limitations and Liability Issues In the Use of a Firearm under TCA § 62-35-118(a)(1)
• (3) Hours Handling of a Firearm under TCA § 62-35-118(a)(1)(B)
• (1) Hour Safety and Maintenance under TCA § 62-35-118(a)(1)(C)
• (4) Hours Marksmanship Firearms Training & Range Qualification segment

RENEWALS & LATE RENEWAL TIME PERIOD

• Armed Guards/Officers renew registration every two (2) years.
• Every two (2) years, armed security guards must complete four hours of refresher training and requalify the use of a firearm by achieving a minimum of 70% on any silhouette target course approved by the commissioner before renewing their guard registration.
• Armed security officers can renew their licenses during this time but cannot work with expired licenses.

RESOURCES & RULES

• How to Get a TN Security Guard License
• Rules of the Department of Commerce and Insurance, Division of Regulatory Boards
• Tennessee Code Annotated Title 62, Chapter 35 via LexisNexis
• Tennessee State Legislature website

EQUIPMENT

• Active Shooter
• Expandable Baton
• Pepper Spray
• Taser
• LEOSA
• Royal Range Courses

FAQ

How old do I need to be to be an armed security guard in Tennessee?

At least 21 years of age.

What are the training requirements for becoming an armed security guard in Tennessee?

4 hours of general training + 8 hours of classroom firearms training + 4 hours of marksmanship training (minimum 70% on a commissioner-approved silhouette target course).

Does the Tennessee Armed Security Guard license class training meet the requirements for obtaining the Armed Guard card license?

Yes. The 16-hour course is fully approved under Tenn. Code Ann. § 62-35-118.

How long does the armed security guard license course take to complete?

Two full days (16 hours total), typically 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM each day.

How much does the Tennessee armed security guard license class cost?

$160.

What is the total cost of obtaining an armed security guard license in Tennessee?

Training $160 + fingerprints (approx. $35–$40) + state fees $130 ≈ $325–$340.

What equipment do I need for the armed security guard license class?

Day One: Notetaking Material and Phone.Day Two: Pistol, magazine, holster, duty belt or sturdy belt, eye and ear protection, and 50 rounds of factory ammunition (no reloads).

If I do not have/own a handgun, can I take the armed security guard license training class?

Yes. Pistols are available for use (student must purchase the required ammunition).

Which pistol calibers are approved by Private Protective Services for armed security officers in Tennessee?

.380, 9mm, .32, .38, .40, .45, and .357 Sig.

Can I qualify with a shotgun?

Shotgun qualification is no longer part of the standard Armed Security Guard License. It has been absorbed into the new Enhanced Armed Guard Program under TCA § 62-35-144.

Alliance Training and Testing does not offer the Enhanced Armed Guard Program due to the extreme liability associated with over-penetration from the approved rifle ballistics.

Can I qualify with a rifle?

Rifle qualification has been absorbed into the new Enhanced Armed Guard Program under TCA § 62-35-144.

Alliance Training and Testing does not offer the Enhanced Armed Guard Program due to the extreme liability associated with over-penetration from the approved rifle ballistics.

Can I qualify with more than one pistol?

Yes. There is an additional fee of $30 per extra pistol plus 25 rounds of ammunition and a spare magazine for each additional pistol.

I just completed / already have a handgun carry permit. Do I need to take this class? Yes. A handgun carry permit does not satisfy the training requirements for an Armed Security Guard registration.

I just completed / already have a handgun carry permit. Do I need to take this class?

Yes. Handgun permit training does not meet the 16 hours of qualifying trining required for the armed guard license.

I am/have been an unarmed security officer. Do I need to take the entire course, or can I take the armed portion?

If you completed the unarmed training within the past 12 months, you may take the 12-hour Unarmed-to-Armed Upgrade course instead of the full 16-hour course.

I am an active Police Officer. Do I still have to complete the training?

Active full-time sworn peace officers may be eligible for a waiver of the firearms portion with proper documentation, but must still complete fingerprinting and the application process. Contact us for details.

I am a Retired / Reserve Police Officer. Do I still have to complete the armed training?

Yes. Retired and reserve officers must complete the full training.

Can I carry a firearm while working as a security guard if I have a valid Tennessee handgun carry permit but haven’t received my armed security guard registration card?

No. It is illegal to carry a firearm while working as a security guard without a valid Armed Security Guard registration card.

What is the course of fire for the handgun qualification?

50 rounds on a commissioner-approved silhouette target course with a minimum score of 70%.

What is the course of fire for the shotgun qualification?

Shotgun qualification is no longer part of the standard Armed course (see Enhanced Armed Guard Program note above).

Is the Tennessee armed security guard license course difficult?

This is NOT a beginner’s “learn to shoot” course. The course is thorough and professional. Students must pass both written examinations and the marksmanship qualification (70% minimum).

What happens if a student fails the final exam of the Tennessee armed security guard license class?

Three attempts are allowed on the written examinations.

What happens if a student fails the Tennessee armed security guard license marksmanship test?

Students who fail the marksmanship portion may attend a future class at no additional charge to re-attempt qualification.

Can I combine the Tennessee online unarmed security guard license class and the unarmed-to-armed upgrade class to get an armed security guard license?

Yes, provided the unarmed training was completed within the previous 12 months.

Resources

License Process Step-by-Step Guide

click here

How to find a security job

Click here

Job Board

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Core TDCI

Click here

Verify a License TDCI

Click here

Rules PPS

Click Here