MISSISSIPPI - 100% ONLINE SECURITY GUARD TRAINING

Mississippi Security Guard Training - Unarmed and Armed Paths

Mississippi doesn't license unarmed security guards, but it does require a real state permit for armed guard roles. Whichever path you're on, the right training helps you meet employer expectations and build a career - 100% online, at your own pace.

Browse coursesSee requirements
+4%
Projected job growth through 2034
1,290
Average annual job openings
100%
Online, self-paced training

Why take this course

Get Hired, Get Certified, Get Ahead

Mississippi doesn't license unarmed guards, but it does require a real state permit for armed roles - training helps you meet both bars.

Get hired faster

Show employers you're ready

Mississippi doesn't license unarmed security guards, so hiring managers look at training instead of a credential. A completed Defencify certificate demonstrates you already understand patrol procedures, reporting, and professional conduct.

A real path to armed roles

Prepare for Mississippi's Armed Guard Permit

Unlike most states in this program, Mississippi requires a genuine state credential for armed guard work - the Security Guard Permit issued by the Department of Public Safety. Understanding what that process involves, and building the underlying skills, gives you a real head start toward armed positions.

Career growth

Stand out in a growing field

Mississippi's security guard workforce is projected to grow faster than the national average, with over a thousand average annual openings. Trained, prepared candidates are positioned to move into better roles as the field expands.

On-the-job confidence

Learn the skills that actually matter

From de-escalation to incident reporting, Defencify's courses cover what you'll actually be expected to do on shift - building a foundation that helps whether you're working unarmed or working toward an armed role.

How it works here

Mississippi Security Guard Rules & Regulations

Mississippi does not license unarmed security guards - Title 45 of the Mississippi Code has no licensing chapter for that role. But armed guard work is different: Mississippi requires a real, state-issued Security Guard Permit for anyone who carries a firearm on duty as a guard, watchman, or patrol employee. Here's how the two paths compare.

State license for UNARMED guards?
No - Mississippi Code Title 45 has no licensing chapter for unarmed security guard work.
State permit for ARMED guards?
Yes. This is the one genuine state-mandated credential in this group: the Security Guard Permit from the Mississippi Department of Public Safety (Miss. Code Ann. Section 97-37-7), required for bank guards, company guards, watchmen, railroad special agents, patrol/guard-service employees, and armored-car employees who carry a firearm on duty.
Armed Guard Permit requirements & fees
Minimum age 21; fingerprint-based background check; $100 original permit + $32 background check fee ($132 total); 4-year renewal term at $50 + $32 ($82 total); $15 late fee if renewed within 6 months of expiration; $15 for a duplicate card.
City-level rules (e.g., Biloxi)?
Yes in at least one city. Biloxi requires its own guard license through the Biloxi Police Department (application fee, background check, and proof of liability insurance) for anyone working as a security guard within city limits, regardless of state licensing status. Other cities may have similar rules - confirm with your local police department.
What if I only want an unarmed role?
No state permit is required, but employers still set their own training expectations - quality coursework helps you get hired now and gives you a foundation if you later pursue the Armed Guard Permit.

This information is provided for general educational purposes and is not legal advice. Always confirm current requirements with the Mississippi Department of Public Safety and your employer.

Questions

Common Questions

Does Mississippi require a license for security guards?

It depends on the role. Mississippi does not license unarmed security guards - there's no licensing chapter for that work in Title 45 of the state code. Armed guards are different: see below.

Do armed security guards need a permit in Mississippi?

Yes. Mississippi requires a Security Guard Permit issued by the Department of Public Safety (Miss. Code Ann. Section 97-37-7) for guards, watchmen, and patrol employees who carry a firearm on duty. It requires a fingerprint-based background check and a minimum age of 21.

How much does Mississippi's Armed Guard Permit cost?

An original permit costs $100 plus a $32 background check fee ($132 total). Renewal, every 4 years, is $50 plus the $32 background check fee ($82 total), with a $15 late fee if renewed within 6 months of expiration, and $15 for a duplicate card.

If unarmed guards aren't licensed, why take a training course?

Because employers still decide who gets hired, and training is how you prove you're ready. It also builds the foundation you'll need if you later pursue the state's Armed Guard Permit.

What's the job outlook for security guards in Mississippi?

Mississippi's security guard workforce is projected to grow faster than the national average through 2034, with about 1,290 average annual openings - steady opportunity for trained candidates entering or advancing in the field.

5.0

from 1 verified review

>

“Very Informative And Thorough Course. I Was Usuing It As A Refresher, But Being That I Was Original Certified In Illinois I Needed To Be Informed In Mississippi And Got Just That!”

Dwayne L Smith
Verified student

Start Your Mississippi Security Guard Training Today

Whether you're headed for an unarmed role or working toward the state's Armed Guard Permit, get the training that prepares you for both.

Browse Mississippi Courses