Evening Cleaner Office Building in Houston

As per the U.S. Department of Labor, the minimum wage for security guard jobs in United States is $7.25 per hour as of January 1 2026. Security guards receive overtime pay at 1.5 times the regular rate for all hours over 40 in a workweek under the Fair Labor Standards Act. This federal floor applies nationwide with no exceptions for the occupation.

As per the U.S. Department of Labor, applicants for security guard jobs must be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or GED as of 2026. No prior paid experience is required for entry-level unarmed positions though a clean criminal background check is mandatory. Armed guard roles additionally require state-specific firearms training completed before hire.

As per the U.S. Department of Labor, applicants must submit a completed I-9 form with proof of identity and work authorization such as a U.S. passport or driver's license plus Social Security card. A state-issued guard registration card and recent background check results are also required before starting work in 2026. Employers file these documents within three business days of hire.

As per the U.S. Department of Labor, security guards work a standard 40 hours per week with shifts typically limited to eight consecutive hours as of 2026. Full-time employees receive at least 40 hours of paid sick leave annually plus employer-sponsored health coverage after 30 days under ACA rules. Overtime is paid for any hours beyond 40 in a workweek.