How Do You Get a PERC Card in Illinois?
Obtaining a Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC) in Illinois is the mandatory state licensing prerequisite for working in the private security, investigation, locksmith, or electronic security alarm industries. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) Division of Professional Regulation licenses and monitors security professionals under the Private Detective, Private Alarm, Private Security, Fingerprint Vendor, and Locksmith Act. Earning a PERC card requires clearing criminal history checks, submitting state applications, and completing statutory training.
IDFPR Statutory Mandates and Eligibility Criteria
A PERC card acts as a universal background clearance credential issued directly by the State of Illinois. Under 225 ILCS 447, any individual employed as an unarmed security guard, private investigator assistant, alarm monitoring technician, or locksmith apprentice must hold an active, unencumbered PERC card issued by the IDFPR before performing operational duties.
To qualify for an Illinois PERC card, an applicant must be at least eighteen years of age. Applicants must possess a valid Social Security Number, provide proof of United States citizenship or legal permanent residency, and maintain a high school diploma, GED certificate, or recognized equivalent educational attainment.
Review the statutory licensing criteria, fees, and state processing channels for an Illinois PERC card:
| Licensing Parameter | Statutory Requirement | Official Fee Benchmark | Responsible Authority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Requirement | Minimum 18 years old | N/A | Illinois General Assembly (225 ILCS) |
| Electronic Fingerprints | LiveScan electronic fingerprinting | $55 to $75 vendor fee | Illinois State Police & FBI |
| State Application Fee | Non-refundable licensing fee | $55 state application fee | IDFPR Online Portal |
| Basic Security Training | 20-hour basic security course | $60 to $120 training tuition | State-Approved Training Agency |
| License Processing Time | Background review and card issuance | 3 to 6 weeks review window | IDFPR Division of Professional Reg |
| Triennial Card Renewal | Every three years on May 31st | $45 renewal fee | IDFPR Online Portal |
The background evaluation is rigorous. Applicants must not have been convicted of any felony within the past ten years, nor convicted of any misdemeanor involving moral turpitude, dishonesty, or physical violence within the past five years. Any prior criminal history must be fully disclosed alongside official court dispositions during the online application process.
LiveScan Electronic Fingerprinting and Background Clearance
The most critical technical step in the PERC application process is submitting electronic fingerprints through an IDFPR-licensed LiveScan fingerprint vendor. Ink fingerprint cards are strictly unacceptable for standard Illinois residents. The applicant must bring valid government-issued photographic identification to an authorized LiveScan vendor.
The fingerprint technician captures digital prints and transmits them directly to the Illinois State Police (ISP) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for national criminal database screening. Upon completing the fingerprint scan, the vendor provides the applicant with a receipt containing an official Transaction Control Number (TCN).
Review the phased steps and documentation required for Illinois PERC card approval:
| Application Stage | Action Required | Key Data / Document | Common Pitfall / Delay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Step 1: Fingerprinting | Visit licensed LiveScan vendor | Obtain printed TCN receipt | Allowing 60 days to pass before applying |
| Step 2: Account Creation | Register on IDFPR online portal | Valid email and SSN verification | Entering incorrect address or name typo |
| Step 3: Online Application | Submit PERC card application | Upload TCN number, ID, and photo | Failing to disclose expunged convictions |
| Step 4: Fee Payment | Pay non-refundable state fee | $55 credit card or e-check payment | Declined transaction delaying review |
| Step 5: 20-Hour Course | Complete basic guard training | Receive certificate of completion | Working armed without firearm training |
The TCN number is a critical digital tracking code that must be entered verbatim into your IDFPR online license application. If the TCN number is missing, mistyped, or if more than sixty days elapse between fingerprinting and online application submission, the prints expire and the applicant must pay to be fingerprinted again.
IDFPR Online Portal Submission and the 20-Hour Security Course
All PERC card applications in Illinois must be submitted electronically through the IDFPR Online Licensing Portal. Paper applications have been completely phased out. Applicants create a secure profile, navigate to the Private Security section, select 'Permanent Employee Registration Card', input their personal details, upload a passport-style digital photograph, and enter the LiveScan TCN number.
While an applicant can apply for and receive a PERC card prior to completing security guard training, state law mandates that no PERC card holder can work as a private security officer until they complete a certified 20-hour basic security training course. This course covers the Illinois Criminal Code, use of force, search and seizure limitations, emergency evacuation, report writing, and radio communications.
For individuals aspiring to work as armed security guards, a PERC card is only the baseline credential. Armed security guards must complete an additional 20-hour armed security training course and obtain a Firearm Control Card (FCC), commonly referred to in the industry as a 'Tan Card', which authorizes them to carry an approved sidearm while on duty in uniform.
How to Get a PERC Card in Illinois in 5 Steps
Follow these five steps to complete fingerprinting, submit your online application, and obtain an Illinois PERC card.
Get Electronic Fingerprints via LiveScan
Visit an IDFPR-approved LiveScan fingerprint vendor in Illinois to capture your digital prints and receive your TCN receipt.
Create an Account on the IDFPR Licensing Portal
Register on the official Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation online portal using your Social Security Number.
Complete the Online PERC Application Form
Fill out the PERC application, input your TCN number, answer background screening questions, and upload your photo.
Pay the Non-Refundable Fifty-Five Dollar State Fee
Submit your payment using a debit or credit card to initiate the state background review process.
Complete the Mandatory 20-Hour Basic Training Course
Enroll in a state-approved 20-hour security officer course to receive the training certificate required to work security shifts.
Frequently Asked Questions (8 Questions Answered)
Q1: What does PERC stand for in Illinois?
PERC stands for Permanent Employee Registration Card, the state credential required to work in private security, investigations, or locksmithing in Illinois.
Q2: How long does it take to get a PERC card in Illinois?
IDFPR application processing typically takes between 3 and 6 weeks from the date of electronic application and fingerprint submission.
Q3: How much does an Illinois PERC card cost?
The total cost is approximately $110 to $130, including the $55 IDFPR state application fee and $55 to $75 for LiveScan fingerprinting.
Q4: Can a felon get a PERC card in Illinois?
Felony convictions within the past 10 years are generally disqualifying, although the IDFPR reviews rehabilitation evidence on a case-by-case basis.
Q5: Can you work security while waiting for your PERC card?
No, Illinois law strictly prohibits individuals from working as security officers until the IDFPR formally approves and issues their PERC card.
Q6: How long is a PERC card valid in Illinois?
A PERC card is valid for three years, with all cards expiring triennially on May 31st regardless of when they were initially issued.
Q7: What is the difference between a PERC card and a Tan Card?
A PERC card is the state background clearance for unarmed security, while a Tan Card (Firearm Control Card) licenses security officers to carry a firearm on duty.
Q8: Can you take the 20-hour security course online in Illinois?
Yes, the IDFPR allows the 20-hour basic security training curriculum to be completed through accredited online training academies.
Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways
In conclusion, understanding how do you get a perc card in illinois? provides essential clarity, practical strategies, and actionable advice. By incorporating these foundational insights, adhering to verified safety guidelines, and following structured best practices, you ensure reliable, long-term outcomes while preventing common mistakes. Stay informed, consult certified professionals when needed, and maintain consistent quality care.