Dreaming of a career in the Illinois security industry? Maybe you envision yourself safeguarding businesses, protecting communities, or ensuring the safety of individuals at events. But before you can step into that role, there's a crucial first step: obtaining your Permanent Employee Registration Card, better known as a PERC card. This little piece of identification is your official license to work as a security professional in the state, and without it, your career aspirations will be on hold.
Getting your PERC card isn't just about fulfilling a legal requirement; it's about demonstrating your commitment to professionalism and safety. It signifies that you've met the state's standards for competence and integrity, giving employers and the public confidence in your abilities. The application process can seem daunting at first, filled with paperwork, background checks, and training requirements. But with the right guidance, navigating the process can be surprisingly straightforward, paving the way for a fulfilling and impactful career in security.
What Exactly Does It Take to Get a PERC Card in Illinois?
What are the exact steps to obtain a PERC card in Illinois?
To obtain a PERC (Permanent Employee Registration Card) in Illinois, you must first complete a 20-hour security training course from a licensed training facility, then submit an application to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), including fingerprints for a background check, a photograph, and payment of the required fee. Once the IDFPR approves your application and background check, your PERC card will be issued.
The Illinois PERC card is mandatory for most security professionals working in the state. The initial step involves enrolling in and successfully completing a state-approved 20-hour basic security officer training course. This course covers essential topics like legal powers and limitations, emergency procedures, report writing, and public relations. Upon completion, you'll receive a certificate of completion which is a crucial document for your PERC application. Be sure to choose a training provider licensed by the IDFPR to ensure the course meets the required standards. Next, you must apply for your PERC card online or via mail through the IDFPR website. The application requires providing personal information, including your social security number, driver's license or state ID, and details regarding your training. You'll also need to submit a clear passport-style photograph and undergo fingerprinting for a thorough criminal background check. This is typically done at an approved fingerprint vendor. Finally, you must pay the required application fee, which is subject to change, so it's best to check the IDFPR website for the most current fee schedule. The IDFPR will then review your application, background check, and training verification. Upon approval, your PERC card will be mailed to you, allowing you to legally work as a security professional in Illinois.How much does it cost to get a PERC card in Illinois?
The cost to obtain a PERC (Permanent Employee Registration Card) in Illinois is $55. This fee is paid directly to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) during the application process.
This $55 fee covers the cost of the background check and processing of your application. It is important to note that this fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether your application is approved or denied. Payment can typically be made online through the IDFPR website using a credit or debit card. Be sure to check the IDFPR website for the most up-to-date information and accepted payment methods, as policies can change.
It's also important to factor in potential additional costs. While the $55 covers the PERC card itself, many security companies require applicants to undergo training programs or certification courses as a condition of employment. These courses often come with their own fees, which are separate from the PERC card application fee and vary depending on the training provider and the specific type of training required.
What disqualifies someone from getting a PERC card in Illinois?
Several factors can disqualify an individual from obtaining a Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC) in Illinois. These primarily revolve around criminal history, including convictions for felonies or certain misdemeanors, particularly those involving violence, dishonesty, or drug-related offenses. Other disqualifying factors include being a registered sex offender, having a history of mental illness deemed to pose a threat to public safety, or failing to meet the required training and application standards.
The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) conducts thorough background checks on all PERC card applicants. Convictions that automatically disqualify an applicant often include violent crimes such as murder, robbery, aggravated battery, and arson. Crimes involving moral turpitude, like fraud, embezzlement, and theft, can also lead to denial. Drug-related offenses, especially those involving the sale or distribution of controlled substances, are another common reason for disqualification. The IDFPR considers the severity and recency of the offense when making a determination. Beyond criminal history, other factors can influence the IDFPR's decision. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and legally authorized to work in the United States. Falsifying information on the application or failing to complete the required 20-hour security training course from an approved provider will also result in disqualification. It's crucial to understand that even if an applicant believes their past should not impact their eligibility, the IDFPR has the final say based on their established regulations and public safety concerns.How long is a PERC card valid for in Illinois?
A Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC card) in Illinois is valid for two years from the date of issuance.
This two-year validity period means that security professionals in Illinois must renew their PERC cards every two years to maintain their legal ability to work in security-related roles. The expiration date is printed directly on the PERC card, allowing cardholders to easily track when renewal is necessary. It is the responsibility of the cardholder to ensure timely renewal; working with an expired PERC card can result in penalties for both the individual and the employer.
The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) oversees the PERC card program, and it's important to consult their website for the most up-to-date information regarding renewal procedures. Generally, the renewal process involves completing an application, paying a fee, and potentially undergoing a background check to ensure continued eligibility. Starting the renewal process well in advance of the expiration date is recommended to avoid any lapses in authorization to work as a security professional in Illinois.
Where do I submit my PERC card application in Illinois?
You must submit your PERC (Permanent Employee Registration Card) application to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) either online through their website or by mail to their designated address in Springfield, IL.
While online submission is generally faster and more convenient, allowing you to track the status of your application, mailing in your application is an alternative option. To apply online, visit the IDFPR website and follow the instructions for creating an account and submitting your application electronically. This typically involves uploading required documents and paying the application fee online. If you choose to mail your application, you will need to download the PERC application form from the IDFPR website, complete it accurately, and include all necessary documentation (such as proof of training, identification, and payment). The application should then be mailed to the address specified on the application form itself or on the IDFPR website, usually located in Springfield, IL. Be sure to keep a copy of the completed application and all supporting documents for your records. Remember that the IDFPR may occasionally update its procedures, so it's always best to verify the most current submission method and address on their official website before sending your application.Is there a background check required for a PERC card in Illinois?
Yes, a comprehensive background check is absolutely required to obtain a Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC) in Illinois. This background check is a crucial part of the application process and is mandated by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
The background check for a PERC card in Illinois is thorough and involves both state and federal level reviews. The IDFPR utilizes fingerprinting to access criminal history records maintained by the Illinois State Police (ISP) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). This ensures that individuals seeking to work in security positions have no disqualifying criminal convictions. Certain felonies and even some misdemeanors can automatically disqualify an applicant from receiving a PERC card. The specific types of offenses that may disqualify an applicant are detailed in the Illinois Administrative Code. The purpose of the background check is to ensure public safety and maintain the integrity of the security industry. By scrutinizing applicants' criminal history, the IDFPR aims to prevent individuals with a history of violence, theft, or other relevant offenses from holding positions where they could potentially pose a risk to the public or to their employers. The fingerprinting process is conducted electronically through approved vendors to ensure the accuracy and efficiency of the background check.What jobs require a PERC card in Illinois?
A PERC (Permanent Employee Registration Card) is required in Illinois for individuals working in security-related positions, specifically those who are employed as security guards, bouncers, private detectives, private alarm contractors, and those involved in security services as defined by the Private Detective, Private Alarm, Private Security, Fingerprint Vendor, and Locksmith Act of 2004.
The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) mandates the PERC to ensure individuals working in these sensitive positions have undergone a background check and meet certain qualifications. Essentially, if your job duties involve safeguarding people, property, or assets, and you're employed by a security agency or act in a similar capacity, you will likely need a PERC. This includes armed and unarmed security officers, those conducting investigations, or providing security consulting services. It's important to note that even if you don't directly handle security tasks, but your role is integral to a security operation (like dispatchers in a security company, in some instances), you may still be required to obtain a PERC. Employers in the security industry are responsible for ensuring their employees have the necessary PERC and that it is valid and up-to-date. Failure to comply with PERC requirements can result in penalties for both the individual and the employer.So there you have it! Getting your Illinois PERC card might seem like a bit of a process, but hopefully, this guide has made it feel a little less daunting. Good luck with your application, and thanks for reading! We hope you found this helpful, and feel free to come back if you have any other questions along the way!