Use this page as a planning starting point, not a final legal answer.
Students looking at Illinois often have questions about training fit, permit planning, reciprocity, and how to prepare before paying for a class. This page is here to make that first step easier, while keeping the advice realistic: state rules can change, so official guidance should always be checked before you rely on any permit or reciprocity decision.
This page highlights the two main Illinois security-training paths students usually ask about first: the 20-hour basic security course and the 28-hour armed security course.
Basic security training
A strong starting point for students moving into security work who want a clearer introduction to expectations, professional conduct, and the basic training path before taking the next step.
Armed security training
Built for students preparing for armed security roles who need a more advanced training track and a better understanding of what to expect before class begins.
Call before you enroll.
If you are not sure whether the Illinois 20-hour basic security course or the 28-hour armed security course fits your goal, contact the academy before registering.
Use the course goal to decide your next step.
- Choose the 20-hour basic security course if you are starting with foundational security training.
- Choose the 28-hour armed security course if you are preparing for armed security responsibilities.
- If you are comparing security training with concealed carry training, ask which path should come first for your goal.
- If you are uncertain, call before paying for the wrong Illinois course.
Talk through your Illinois training questions before you enroll.
We can help you sort out the training side, the course-selection side, and the next step if you are stuck deciding where to begin.