According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of security guards is expected to grow faster than average, with median annual wages of $23,460. Although the state of Missouri does not require security guards to be licensed, the cities of St. Louis, Kansas City, Joplin, St. Joseph and Springfield have all passed regulations that require security guards to be licensed. Many employers in these metropolitan regions provide on-the-job training for qualified individuals. There are four licensing categories: watchman, security officer, courier and corporate security advisor. According to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the security officer license is for persons charged with the protection of life or property within a designated premises.

Attain the age of 18. However, some security agencies require that candidates have reached the age of 21.

Pass a background check. A felony conviction will most likely remove a potential candidate from the candidate pool.

Complete classroom training. Topics may include (but are not limited to) criminal law, property rights and emergency procedures.

Pass chemical dependency tests. Drug testing is typically performed prior to issuance of a security license and is often performed as a contingency of continued employment.