Security Guard Services Government Contracts
Government security guard contracts supply armed and unarmed officers for federal buildings, military bases, state facilities, and special events. Solicited under NAICS 561612, these contracts demand state guard licenses, firearms certifications for armed posts, and rigorous personnel vetting. Agencies weigh your training program, supervision model, and ability to fill posts without gaps more heavily than price.
Common requirements in security guard contracts
- State security guard licenses and, for armed posts, firearms permits and qualification records
- Guard training program meeting agency hour requirements (often 40+ hours pre-assignment)
- Post Orders compliance and documented post inspections
- Personnel security clearances or suitability determinations
- 24/7 supervision and post-fill contingency plan (no vacant posts)
- Uniform, equipment, and communications specifications
Documents you'll need ready
- State security agency license (and officer licenses)
- Training curriculum and certification records
- Capability statement with guard services past performance
- Staffing and supervision plan with relief factor math
- Insurance certificates (general liability + often $1M+ per occurrence)
- Active SAM.gov registration under NAICS 561612
Proposal checklist
- Verify your state license covers every place of performance
- Show your relief factor calculation — evaluators check whether staffing math covers leave and training
- Document armed certification process and weapon qualification cadence
- Include a post-vacancy contingency plan with response times
- Address Service Contract Act wage determinations for guard categories
- Provide supervisor-to-guard ratios and inspection frequency
Who buys security guard services
Responding to a security guard services RFP right now?
Paste the solicitation into the free compliance matrix generator and see every requirement in under a minute.
Frequently asked questions
Can a new security company bid on federal guard contracts?
Yes, but expect to start with state/local contracts or federal subcontracts. Federal prime contracts usually require demonstrated past performance and licensed, trained guard forces; teaming with an established prime is the most common entry path.
What's the difference between armed and unarmed solicitations?
Armed posts add firearms licensing, qualification, higher insurance, and higher SCA wage categories. Bid only what your licenses and insurance actually cover — non-compliance is grounds for rejection.
How important is the staffing plan?
It's usually the deciding technical factor. Evaluators look for realistic relief factors, named supervisors, and a credible plan for filling posts on short notice.