Mobile security patrol service

Drive set routes past small businesses, lots and neighborhoods, checking property and reporting what you see.

Security patrol officer walking past a commercial building at dusk.
Startup cost$3k to $15k
Monthly revenue$2k to $10k
Time needed20+ h/week
First incomeMonths
  • $3k-15k
  • Part-time
  • Out and about
  • Licence or permit needed

Estimates for a small start in the US, not guarantees.

Official data

11,104 US businesses with employees in this field, +4.2% in a year

NAICS 561612 “Security guards and patrol services”. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, County Business Patterns 2023.

What it is

A vehicle-based patrol service. You or your guards visit client sites at set or random times, check doors, gates and lots, look for problems, and send a short report after each visit.

Your first three steps

  1. Check your state's licensing board for private security company and guard license requirements, including training and background checks
  2. Get quotes for general liability insurance designed for security companies, and set up an LLC with an EIN
  3. Visit property managers and small business owners in your zip code to offer a trial patrol of one site
Who pays

Small businesses, property managers, storage yards, construction sites, HOAs and apartment communities that can't afford a full-time guard.

How it makes money

Monthly contract per site or per number of patrol visits, with extra charges for alarm response, after-hours checks or special requests.

Skills that help
  • Reliable and observant
  • Calm under pressure
  • Clear report writing
  • Comfortable working nights and weekends
Watch out for
  • Most states license security companies and individual guards, so check what you need before taking any client
  • Insurance can be costly for security work, so compare quotes and check what is covered
  • Rules on uniforms, vehicle markings, and any use of force or firearms vary by state, so check before you buy gear
  • Workers' compensation insurance once you hire guards, and the rules on employees versus contractors
  • Night work and possible confrontations, so plan for your own safety

🔒 Full research report for US

Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.

Coming soon

Questions people ask

How much does it cost to start a mobile security patrol business?

Estimates are typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on your vehicle, gear, licensing and the insurance quotes you get. Compare insurance quotes early, since cover for security work can be costly.

How much can a mobile patrol business earn?

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how many client sites you take on and how often you patrol each one. Treat these as estimates, not guarantees.

Do I need a license to run a security patrol service?

Most states license security companies and individual guards, so check what you need before taking any client. Also check state rules on uniforms, vehicle markings, and any use of force or firearms before buying gear.

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Photo: RyanMcGuire on Pixabay

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