OREGON DPSST CERTIFICATION GUIDE
How to Become an Unarmed Security Professional in Oregon
A step-by-step guide to eligibility, the required 14-hour course, fingerprints, application forms, fees, temporary work permits, and renewal.
Oregon Unarmed Certification at a Glance
- Minimum age: 18
- Education: High school diploma, GED, or qualifying two- or four-year post-secondary degree from an accredited institution
- Training: 14-hour Unarmed Basic classroom, assessment, and exam
- DPSST new-applicant fee: $139
- Fingerprints: Required for a new applicant; the fingerprint vendor charges separately
- Certification term: Two years
- Renewal training: Four-hour Unarmed Renewal/Refresher course and exam
Fees and requirements were verified against Oregon DPSST on July 21, 2026. Always check DPSST before paying or submitting an application because state requirements can change.
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.
The credential can apply to work such as site security, mobile patrol, healthcare security, access control, and some retail or corporate assignments. 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.
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.
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.
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:
- Form PS-1: Application for Licensure or Certification of Private Security Services Provider.
- Fingerprints: A completed fingerprint card or proof of completing electronic fingerprints through Fieldprint.
- Form PS-6: Completed by the certified instructor to document the required training, assessment, and exam.
- Form PS-20, if currently employed: Private Security Services Provider Temporary Work Permit.
- Nonrefundable fees: The current new Unarmed Professional total listed by DPSST is $139. The fingerprint vendor’s service charge is separate.
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.
Can You Work While DPSST Processes the Application?
If you are already employed, the application packet may include a properly completed PS-20 temporary work permit. DPSST’s training materials state that the application must be submitted before performing private-security services and that the worker must carry the PS-20 while performing unarmed duties until the permanent certification card is received.
A PS-20 is not a shortcut around training, fingerprints, forms, fees, or eligibility. Coordinate it with the employing security business and follow the current DPSST instructions. Do not begin security duties merely because a class is complete.
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:
- DPSST fee: $139 for a new Unarmed Professional applicant as of July 21, 2026. DPSST’s fee information reflects the professional certification fee and required new-applicant background-check charge.
- 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.
Renewing an Oregon Unarmed Certification
An Oregon unarmed professional certification is valid for two years. 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.
Ready for the Next Step?
Compare certified trainers, research Oregon employers, and browse current security openings.
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?
DPSST lists $139 for a new Unarmed Professional applicant as of July 21, 2026. Fingerprint-vendor charges and training tuition are separate.
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.
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