How to Get Your Oregon Unarmed Security Certification

Before applying: Review the DPSST background check and disqualifiers guide for fingerprinting, moral-fitness standards, required disclosures, common delays, and what to do if DPSST requests additional records.

What Is an Oregon Unarmed Security Certification?

Oregon regulates private security professionals through the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training, commonly called DPSST. The official credential for most non-firearm private-security work is the Unarmed Private Security Professional certification. People often call it an Oregon guard card, security guard license, or unarmed security license, but “certification” is the term used by DPSST. If you are completely new to the field, start with OSG’s step-by-step guide to becoming a security guard in Oregon, or compare the full range of Oregon private-security certifications before choosing a path.

The credential can apply to work such as site security, mobile patrol, hospital and healthcare security, access control, and some retail or corporate assignments. To see how assignments differ, explore OSG’s guide to the types of private security jobs in Oregon. It does not automatically cover every security-related occupation. Oregon also has separate requirements for armed, alarm-monitor, event-and-entertainment, manager, instructor, and business credentials.

If you are unsure which credential fits a job, ask the employer and confirm with DPSST before beginning work.

Step 1: Confirm That You Meet the Minimum Standards

For an unarmed professional certification, Oregon DPSST states that an applicant must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have a high school diploma, GED certificate, or a qualifying two- or four-year degree issued by an accredited degree-granting college or university.
• Meet Oregon’s moral-fitness standards, evaluated through a criminal background check, department investigation, or other reliable sources.
• Complete the required training, assessment, and examination.

A criminal record does not always produce the same outcome in every case. DPSST applies mandatory and discretionary disqualifying standards. Review the state’s background-check information before spending money on training if you are concerned about eligibility. OSG also maintains a plain-language DPSST background check and disqualifiers guide to help you understand the process before you apply.

Step 2: Choose a DPSST-Certified Instructor

Your unarmed basic course must be delivered by an instructor certified by Oregon DPSST. Training providers set their own schedules and tuition, so compare course format, location, included services, refund policies, and total cost before enrolling. Use the OSG DPSST Training Provider Directory to compare Oregon providers, prices and class dates, or review online Oregon DPSST training providers when remote options are appropriate.

You may complete certification before getting hired, or an employer may coordinate or pay for training. Getting certified first can make you eligible for more openings, while employer-sponsored training may reduce your upfront cost. Neither route replaces the state application process. If you are already thinking about employment, browse entry-level Oregon security jobs, the complete Oregon security job board, or research companies in the Oregon Security Employers Directory.

Step 3: Complete the 14-Hour Unarmed Basic Course

A first-time unarmed applicant must complete the 14-hour Unarmed Basic classroom, assessment, and exam. A provider may schedule more than 14 hours, but 14 hours is the DPSST minimum.

The curriculum covers the legal and practical foundations of private-security work. Successful completion includes the required training, written examination, and assessment. Your instructor documents the result on Form PS-6, the Affidavit of Instructor and Private Security Provider Testing Results.

Keep your copy of the completed PS-6. DPSST training materials state that the PS-6 must be submitted within 180 days of completing the training.

Step 4: Complete Fingerprints and the Application Packet

A new unarmed applicant submits an application packet to DPSST. The state’s instructions identify these core items:

1. Form PS-1: Application for Licensure or Certification of Private Security Services Provider.
2. Fingerprints: A completed fingerprint card or proof of completing electronic fingerprints through Fieldprint.
3. Form PS-6: Completed by the certified instructor to document the required training, assessment, and exam.
4. Form PS-20, if currently employed: Private Security Services Provider Temporary Work Permit, completed with the employing licensed manager under DPSST requirements.
5. Nonrefundable state charges: $149 for a new unarmed applicant during September 1–30, 2026; $152 beginning October 1. Training and fingerprint-vendor charges are separate. See the dated fee breakdown.

Read the current DPSST submission instructions and forms carefully. Incomplete information can cause a Notice of Deficiency and delay or terminate an application if the missing items are not supplied by the deadline.

Step 5: Track Your Status and Keep Your Information Current

Processing time can vary, so this guide does not promise a fixed approval date. DPSST’s Information Records Inquiry System, or I.R.I.S., can be used to check public certification information. Contact DPSST if an application appears delayed or if you receive a deficiency notice.

After certification, report required changes—such as an address change—to DPSST using the correct form and within the applicable deadline.

How Much Does Oregon Unarmed Certification Cost?

Your total cost usually has three parts:

• State charges: The $104 unarmed credential fee plus the required background check equals $149 during September 1–30, 2026, or $152 beginning October 1. The background component changes from $45 to $48. See the official fee schedule and OSG fee comparison. Do not add the background fee twice.
• Fingerprint vendor charge: Paid separately and subject to the vendor’s current pricing.
• Training tuition: Set by the independent certified instructor or training provider.

Ask a trainer for the complete price before registering. Confirm whether tuition includes study materials, forms assistance, fingerprint scheduling, rescheduling, or retesting. Before choosing a provider, compare current options in the Oregon DPSST training directory.

Renewing an Oregon Unarmed Certification

An Oregon unarmed professional certification is valid for two years. If your long-term goal includes higher-responsibility assignments, you can also learn about the separate Oregon armed security certification process and armed security careers in Oregon. To continue providing security services, a renewing applicant completes a four-hour Unarmed Renewal/Refresher course and exam and submits the renewal application and fee.

DPSST says renewal may be initiated up to 180 days before expiration. Submit the completed packet before the expiration date to avoid a late fee and possible interruption. The renewal process uses Form PS-21 and a new PS-6 from the refresher instructor; a PS-20 may apply in the renewal circumstances described by DPSST.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be hired before taking the unarmed course?

No. You can complete the course and apply independently. Some employers also arrange or pay for training after hiring.

Is the Oregon guard card the same as unarmed certification?

“Guard card” is an informal search term. Oregon DPSST calls the credential an Unarmed Private Security Professional certification.

How long is the required training?

The minimum is a 14-hour Unarmed Basic classroom, assessment, and exam. Providers may schedule additional time.

How much is the DPSST application fee?

For a new unarmed applicant, state charges total $149 during September 1–30, 2026, or $152 beginning October 1. These amounts combine the $104 credential fee with one required background check. Training tuition and fingerprint-vendor charges are separate. See the dated fee breakdown and official DPSST fee page before submitting payment.

Does the PS-20 let me work immediately?

Only follow a PS-20 process coordinated with the employing security business and current DPSST instructions. Required training and the application process must be completed, the application must be submitted before performing duties, and the permit must be carried while working until the permanent card is received.

How long does certification last?

Two years. Renewal requires the four-hour Unarmed Renewal/Refresher course and exam plus the required renewal application and fee.

Official Sources

• DPSST: Unarmed Private Security Professionals
• DPSST: New Private Security Certification or License
• DPSST: Training and Fee Requirements
• DPSST: Renewal Instructions

Oregon Security Guide is an independent informational resource and is not affiliated with Oregon DPSST. This article is general information, not legal advice. DPSST is the controlling source for current certification requirements.