Can I Get a Florida Security Guard License if I have a Prior Conviction?

The short answer is YES.

If you have been convicted of a crime, you must apply and get your civil rights restored through the Executive Clemency Program before you can get your Florida Security Guard License.

Restoration of Civil Rights in Florida:
The Restoration of Civil Rights in Florida restores all of the rights of citizenship of a former convict, except the specific authority to own, possess, or use firearms.

Felony conviction occurred in Florida

If you have been convicted (not just arrested) of a felony as described in Section 790.23, of the Florida state Statutes, then you need to apply and obtain Executive Clemency from Florida before you can apply and get a Security Guard License in Florida State.

Felony conviction occurred in another US state

If your felony conviction occurred in another US state, then you need to obtain the certificate of rehabilitation or restoration of civil rights by that state where the conviction occurred.

Felony conviction occurred in a Federal Court

If you were convicted of a felony under the US federal law, then you must then get a presidential pardon or should get federal relief from disabilities.

What rights are restored by the Executive Clemency process?

The basic civil rights such as the right to vote, the right to serve on a jury, and the right to hold public office. The right to own, possess, or use firearms requires a waiting period of eight years from the date your sentence expired or supervision terminated.

Steps for Applying and getting Executive Clemency in Florida

1. Application Process (How can I apply for Clemency – including civil rights restoration?)

All persons seeking clemency, including the restoration of civil rights, must complete an application for Clemency in Florida State and submit it to the Florida State Office of Executive Clemency.
2. The Executive Clemency Process (How does the executive clemency process work?)

When an application for any form of clemency is received in the Office of Florida Executive Clemency, it is screened for eligibility regarding the required time frames for the various offenses and the accompanying required certified court documents are reviewed.

If applicant is found eligible, the application is forwarded to the investigative phase of the process in the Office of Clemency Investigations. Cases are then assigned to examiners in the field offices on a first-in, first-out basis.

If the Office of Executive Clemency determines that your application does not meet the requirements, you will be advised of the disqualifying issues and guidance provided as to the next step. After the investigation and report is prepared, if you are eligible, your application will be forwarded to the Clemency Board for a decision.

If clemency is granted, your will get the certificate of Restoration of Civil Rights through mail from the Office of Executive Clemency.

More information

For more information and to find answers to your questions regarding the procedure for applying for restoration of Civil Rights or restoration of Firearm Rights please contact The Office of Executive Clemency, Florida, using the information shown below: