Proprietary Security Organization (PSO and PSO-A)

A Proprietary Security Organization (PSO) refers to any person or department that employs a security guard solely for their organization in an employer/employee relationship.

“Proprietary Security Organization-A" (PSO-A) refers to any person or department that employs a security guard solely for their organization in an employer/employee relationship at an establishment with on-premises alcohol consumption.

PSO Requirements

Licensing Requirements

1. Must provide information regarding your organization and qualifying manager.

2. Must provide a Certificate of Insurance that meets the requirements of Tenn. Code Annotated 62-35-114.

Other Types of Security Companies

1. If you intend on providing security services for other entities or individuals on a contractual basis, please review information related to contract security companies to ensure you are selecting the most appropriate license or registration for your organization.

2. If your organization has or plans to obtain a license or permit for on-premises consumption of alcohol, please review information related to the PSO-A license type below to determine what license or registration is most appropriate for your organization.
 

Application & Fees

Complete the “Initial Proprietary Security Organization (PSO) Application” online at core.tn.gov. There is no fee associated with this application.

PSO-A Requirements

Licensing Requirements

1. Must provide a Certificate of Insurance that meets the requirements of Tenn. Code Annotated 62-35-114.

2. Must have an active Tennessee Secretary of State filing for the company, with the company name and address matching what is on file.  If you are a sole proprietorship, you do not need to meet this requirement.

3. Must have an active and current ABC license.

4. Must have an active and current Beer Board permit.

5. Qualifying managers must complete a background check through IdentoGO. For information, including locations, scheduling, and guidance for out-of-state applicants, visit https://www.identogo.com.

Application & Fees

Complete the “Initial Proprietary Security Organization (PSO - A) - A Establishment that Serves Alcohol Application” online at core.tn.gov. The fee associated with this transaction is $100.