Armed Security Guard License Class

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

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 with our comprehensive armed security guard training programs tailored to Tennessee’s requirements.

Alliance Training and Testing offers a premier armed guard training program that equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel as a licensed security officer in Tennessee. Please note that the armed security guard license course is not designed for beginners. We recommend that all students be proficient in safe pistol operation and confident in their weapon manipulation skills before registering for the class. Our state-of-the-art training center in Nashville, TN provides a dynamic learning environment led by expert certified trainers with extensive experience.

Course Highlights:

Our intensive 16-hour training curriculum covers everything you need to know, from firearm laws and legal responsibilities to weapon manipulation and tactical situations. You’ll be fully prepared for your career in armed security.

Our expert instructors are seasoned professionals with thousands of hours of training experience. Their expertise ensures you receive the highest quality instruction, giving you the confidence to excel in your career as a licensed armed security officer in Tennessee.

Get ready for real-world situations with our hands-on range training and develop practical firearm handling skills. Complete our state-approved certification course and meet state requirements to obtain your Tennessee Armed Security Guard License.

Join us and take the first step toward a rewarding career in private security where you can make a difference.

This intensive two-day course includes 4 hours of General Training + 12 hours of Armed Training (8 hours classroom firearms + 4 hours marksmanship/range qualification).

PRICE

$160

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

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

Schedule: Two days, 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM

RESERVE NOW

2026 Class Dates

• January 10-11
• February 7-8
• March 7-8
• April 11-12
• May 2-3
• June 6-7
• July 18-19
• August 8-9
• September 12-13
• October 3-4
• November 7-8
• December 12-13

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
• Free from disabilities that prevent performing security duties
• Not suffering from habitual drunkenness or drug addiction
• Not declared incompetent by a court (unless restored)

EQUIPMENT REQUIRED (Day Two)

• Pistol, Magazine, Holster, Duty Belt or Sturdy Belt
• Ear & Eye Protection
• 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

COURSE REQUIREMENTS & STANDARD OF CONDUCT

By enrolling, you agree:

• 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

TERMS OF USE

By making this purchase, you affirm that you:

• Can read, write, and comprehend Standard English
• Can speak and comprehend the English language
• Are eligible for Armed Security Officer training under Tennessee Private Protective Services requirements
• Are eligible to work in Tennessee and meet all citizenship requirements

Alliance Training and Testing LLC does not guarantee successful completion or licensure. We reserve the right to refuse to train or certify any student for any reason.

RETURN POLICY – ALL SALES ARE FINAL

This is a Non-Refundable Reservation Fee.No exchanges, returns, or refunds of any kind.If you miss the class, your sole remedy is to reschedule within 60 days of the original date.By purchasing, you agree to this Return Policy.

RESOURCES

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

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. It includes a 4-hour segment of General Training, followed by 12 additional Armed Guard Training hours comprising 8 hours of Classroom Firearms Training and 4 Hours of Marksmanship Firearms Training or Range Qualification. The training will give you the confidence and skills to perform your duties effectively, ensuring you are competent and proficient.

LEARNING OBJECTIVE

This course prepares individuals to obtain a license as armed security officers in Tennessee. It is fully approved by the State of Tennessee Private Protective Services and meets all licensure requirements.

LOCATION

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

CLASS DURATION

16 Hours Total – Two Days

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, where 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 including:
(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 including:
(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

COURSE GOALS

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.

Comprehend Tennessee criminal and civil law, particularly Title 39 (Criminal Offenses) and Title 40 (Criminal Procedure).

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, emphasizing 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.

RENEWALS

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 the renewal of their guard registration.

LATE RENEWAL TIME PERIOD

A 90-day late renewal period is available for license renewal.

Armed security officers can renew their licenses during this time but cannot work with expired licenses.

EQUIPMENT

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

REQUIREMENTS

COURSE PRE-REQUISITES

Please review our LICENSE PROCESS PAGE, which includes a Checklist of Requirements For Security Guard Registration (to ensure you meet all eligibility requirements), and a Checklist of Tasks that must be completed to become a licensed security officer in Tennessee.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS TENNESSEE ARMED GUARD QUALIFICATIONS

Age: Must be at least 21 years old.
Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien.
Character: Must be of good moral character:

- No convictions for serious crimes (including probation) within the past 5 years. - No convictions for crimes involving firearms, shoplifting, or violence within the past 5 years.

Physical and Mental Fitness: Free from disabilities that prevent performing duties.

- Not suffering from habitual drunkenness or drug addiction. - Not declared incompetent by a court (unless competency has since been restored).

CONVICTION OF THE FOLLOWING OFFENSES SHALL DISQUALIFY AN APPLICANT

ANY FELONY

ANY MISDEMEANOR INVOLVING:

• Shooting a firearm or other weapon
• Shoplifting
• Assault and battery or other act of violence against persons or property
• Crimes involving the sale, manufacture, or distribution of controlled substances, controlled substance analogs, drugs, or narcotics;
• Theft of property
• Theft of services

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Must meet the training requirements.

Submit electronic fingerprints for processing TBI and or FBI criminal history checks.

RULES

Rules of Department of Commerce and Insurance Division of Regulatory Boards.

LexisNexis® publishes Tennessee Code Annotated. To locate the area about Private Protective Services, enter the LexisNexis® Web site and scroll to Title 62 - Chapter 35.

Go to the Tennessee State Legislature website to see Senate and House bills passed that amend the Tennessee Code Annotated.

TERMS OF USE

By making this purchase, you affirm that you:

Can read, write, and comprehend Standard English text.

Can speak and comprehend the English Language.

Are eligible for Armed Security Officer/Guard training by the State of Tennessee Private Protective Services requirements.

Are eligible to work in Tennessee and meet all Citizenship Eligibility Requirements by the State of Tennessee Private Protective Services requirements.

Armed students must pass (2) multiple-choice tests & a marksmanship test scoring<70% to complete the Armed training successfully; therefore, we do not guarantee successful completion or licensure.

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.

RETURN POLICY - ALL SALES ARE FINAL

This is a Non-Refundable Reservation Fee.

We do not offer Exchanges, Returns, or Refunds of any kind.

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.

Please register at least 24 hours in advance by using the “Buy Now” link on this page.

The “Trainee” is responsible for applying to the State of Tennessee and paying the applicable fee(s).

By making this purchase, you agree to our RETURN POLICY.

FAQ

How old do I need 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.