October 29, 2026
Can a Felon Get a Security License in Florida?
If you have a felony on your record and you want to work security in Florida, you have heard two opposite answers: never, and no problem. The truth is in between, and it is written into Florida law. A felony does not automatically close the door forever — but it does start a clock, and that clock matters most.
The short answer
Usually, a person with a felony conviction cannot get a Florida security license right away. Under section 493.6118 of the Florida Statutes, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services must deny the application or revoke the license unless two things are both true: the person's civil rights have been restored by Florida or by a state Florida accepts, and at least 10 years have passed since final release from supervision.
Final release means the end of supervision, not the conviction date. Count from the wrong date and you can apply years too early.
Withheld adjudication is different
If adjudication of guilt was withheld on a felony — meaning the court did not enter a conviction — the statute sets a shorter wait: the department must deny or revoke until 3 years have passed since final release from supervision. That is a wait, and it runs from final release, not from the court date.
A no-contest plea does not erase the issue. The statute says it creates a rebuttable presumption of guilt, although you may present mitigating circumstances. Be ready to explain your case honestly, with documents. Do not hide it on the application — misrepresentation is itself a ground for denial.
Armed work has an extra bar
Armed security is harder. A Class G applicant with a felony conviction must also have the specific right to possess, carry, or use a firearm restored by Florida. Restored civil rights alone do not automatically clear that second hurdle, so do not book armed training until you know where you stand on both.
That is why I tell new officers to start with the unarmed Class D path. I hold both Class D and Class G licenses and work in loss prevention, after coming into security from retail operations. For someone rebuilding after a conviction, that order matters more.
Before you pay for training
Before you pay for a 40-hour Class D course, do three checks. First, confirm your civil rights restoration in writing. Second, pin down your final release date and count the 10-year or 3-year period from there. Third, contact the FDACS Division of Licensing with your facts and ask whether you are eligible to apply — before you spend money on training.
The takeaway
The takeaway: a felony is a delay and a test of honesty, not always a lifetime ban. Restore your rights, respect the clock, keep your paperwork, and apply only when the law says you can. This is general information, not legal advice.
New to the field? Read my guide on starting in security in Florida with no experience. If this post helped you, follow my work here on toukirislam.com or reach me through the contact section on the homepage.
Sources
Florida Statutes, Chapter 493 — Private Investigative, Private Security, and Repossession Services
Florida Statutes § 493.6118 — Grounds for disciplinary action
FDACS — Class D Security Officer License Requirements
By Toukir Islam, Florida Class D and Class G licensed security officer and loss prevention officer in West Palm Beach, Florida.