Maryland Initial Security Guard Training: The Complete Guide for Getting Your Guard Card in 2025
- Eight Point Solutions News Room
- Mar 29
- 2 min read

Why Maryland Security Guard Certification is in High Demand
The private security industry in Maryland is BOOMING. Whether you're in Baltimore, PG County, Montgomery County, Annapolis, or anywhere in between — licensed security guards are in demand. Businesses, housing developments, hospitals, schools, and event venues are looking for trained, certified professionals.
But Maryland law has changed. As of January 1, 2025, it’s mandatory that anyone seeking to become a security guard completes a 12-hour Initial Security Guard Certification Course approved under the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commissions (MPCTC).
That’s where Eight Point Solutions comes in.
Maryland Guard Card Training – Everything You Need to Know
✅ What is the Maryland Guard Card?
A guard card is your official proof that you’ve completed required state training and are eligible to be licensed as a security guard in Maryland.
✅ Who Needs This Training?
First-time security guards
Anyone seeking unarmed security guard jobs in Maryland
People applying to work in private security, events, patrol, loss prevention, or commercial security
What You’ll Learn in the Maryland Initial Security Guard Certification Course:
Legal Authority & Use of Force: Understand what you're legally allowed to do as a security professional
Emergency Response: Fire drills, active shooter situations, medical calls
Patrolling & Observation: How to document, observe, and communicate effectively
Conflict Resolution & De-Escalation: How to handle hostile situations without force
Professional Conduct & Ethics: What it means to act professionally on post
Report Writing: Security logs, incident reports, legal documentation
Frequently Searched Questions
🔎 How do I become a security guard in Maryland?
Enroll in a 12-hour state-approved Maryland Initial Guard Certification Training course like the one offered by Eight Point Solutions. You’ll need a government-issued ID, be at least 18 years old, and pass a background check.
🔎 Where can I get Maryland guard card training near me?
Eight Point Solutions offers weekly guard card training classes in Baltimore and surrounding areas.
🔎 Is guard card training required in Maryland?
Yes. As of January 1, 2025, the MPCTC mandates all new guards complete a 12-hour training.
🔎 How long does Maryland security guard training take?
Our program is completed in two days — 8 hours of classroom instruction on Day 1 and 4 hours of classroom + 4 hours range/practical on Day 2.
Maryland Security Guard License Requirements (2025 Update)
To apply for your Maryland security license, you must:
Be 18+ years old
Complete a 12-hour approved training course
Submit your application to the Maryland State Police Licensing Division
Pass a fingerprint/background check
Why Eight Point Solutions is Maryland’s #1 Training Provider
Veteran-Owned & Operated
Real-World Instructors – Military and law enforcement background
State-Aligned Curriculum
Flexible Class Schedules – Weekend & evening options
Baltimore-Based – Local, legit, and respected
Trusted by Employers – Our grads get hired
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