This guide explains in simple steps what you need to work as a security guard in Germany in 2026. The rules are strict to keep everyone safe.
What You MUST Have (Requirements)
To work legally, you need these things:
- Clean Police Record: You must get a special paper from the German police that shows you have no serious crimes. This is called an “erweitertes Führungszeugnis”.
- Health Check: A German doctor must check you and give you a paper that says you are healthy in body and mind for the job.
- Special Security License (The 34a Certificate): This is the most important paper. To get it:
- You must take a training course (at least 40 hours).
- You learn about German law, how to stop fights, first aid, and how to use security tools.
- You must pass a final exam at the IHK (Chamber of Commerce).
- German Language: You need to speak and understand German well enough to follow orders, talk to people, and write reports. Level B1 is a good goal.
- Permission to Work:
- If you are from an EU country, you can work freely.
- If you are from outside the EU, you need a German residence permit (“Aufenthaltserlaubnis”) that says you are allowed to work. Finding a company to hire you is harder.
How to Find a Real Security Company
Be careful! Only work with real companies. Fake companies can cheat you.
A good and real security company in Germany:
- Has a special government license called a “Bewachungserlaubnis”. You can ask to see this.
- Will give you a clear work contract in German before you start. The contract must explain your pay, hours, and job.
- Will NOT ask you for money to give you a job. This is a scam.
- Often belongs to a big security group like BDSW or DSW. This is a good sign.
- Has a real office address in Germany and a phone number.
Step-by-Step Plan for 2026
- Learn German: Start learning German now if you haven’t already.
- Get Your Papers Ready: Get your passport, birth certificate, and any school or work certificates. You may need to translate them.
- Take the Security Course: Search online for “34a Sachkundeprüfung course” in the city where you live in Germany. Sign up for the course, complete it, and pass the IHK exam.
- Apply for Jobs: Once you have your 34a certificate, apply for jobs with the real companies described above.
- Sign a Good Contract: Do not start work without a signed contract. Make sure you understand your pay and hours.
Remember
The rules are the same in all of Germany, but sometimes cities have small differences. Always ask the local “Gewerbeamt” (Trade Office) or “IHK” (Chamber of Commerce) if you are not sure. They give correct information for free.
Good luck! With the right papers and a good company, this can be a stable job in Germany.
