Initial armed security (2 Years)

 Requirements to Become an Armed Security Officer in Tennessee

To work as an armed security officer in Tennessee, you must meet all state requirements set by Private Protective Services (PPS) under the Department of Commerce & Insurance. These requirements ensure that every armed guard is trained, qualified, and legally authorized to carry a firearm while on duty.

1. Be at Least 21 Years Old (Tennessee requires armed guards to be 21 or older at the time of registration.

 2. Be a U.S. Citizen or Legally Authorized to Work (You must provide documentation proving citizenship or legal work authorization.

3. Have No Disqualifying Criminal History

You cannot have:

• Felony convictions

• Domestic violence convictions

• Certain misdemeanor offenses

• Active warrants or pending charges

A state and federal background check is required.

4. Complete the Unarmed Guard Training First

Before becoming armed, you must complete:

• 4 hours of unarmed guard training

• Submit fingerprints and application for unarmed registration

This is the foundation for all security work in Tennessee.

5. Complete the Initial Armed Guard Training

Tennessee requires:

• 8 hours of classroom instruction

• 4 hours of live‑fire range qualification

Training covers:

• Firearm safety

• Legal responsibilities

• Use‑of‑force laws

• Weapon handling

• Marksmanship

• Duty procedures

 6. Pass the Firearms Qualification

You must demonstrate safe handling and accuracy with your duty firearm under instructor supervision.

7. Submit the Armed Guard Application

After training, you must:

• Submit the PPS armed guard application

• Provide your training certificate

• Pay the state fee

 8. Maintain Your Registration

Armed guard registration must be renewed every two years, including:

• Refresher training

• Updated background check

• Renewal fee

How to Get Your Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit (EHCP) After You Receive Your Armed Security Registration Card

Once you receive your Tennessee Armed Security Officer Registration Card, you are legally allowed to carry a firearm only while on duty for your security employer. If you want to carry a handgun off‑duty, in public, or for personal protection, you should apply for the Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit (EHCP).

 1. Use Your Armed Guard Firearms Training as Your EHCP Training

Your Tennessee armed guard firearms course already meets the state’s training requirement for the EHCP.

You do NOT need to take the EHCP class.

 2. Apply Online for the EHCP

Go to the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security website and complete the application for the Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit.

You will receive instructions for fingerprinting and document submission.

 3. Get Fingerprinted

Even though you were fingerprinted for your armed guard registration, you must be fingerprinted again for the EHCP because the two departments do not share systems.

 4. Submit Your Armed Guard Firearms Training Certificate

This certificate replaces the EHCP class certificate.

It proves you already completed the required training.

5. Pay the State Fee and Wait for Approval

Once your background check clears, the state will mail your EHCP card.

Why You Should Get the EHCP

• Allows you to carry off‑duty

• Gives you reciprocity in many other states

• Protects you when traveling to and from work

• Many employers prefer or require it

• No extra class needed — your armed guard training already qualifie