PSARA Licence for Event Security Agencies

Published on: 04 Nov 2026

PSARA Licence for Event Security Agencies. If you run a business that provides security guards for weddings, concerts, exhibitions, festivals or corporate events, you may need a PSARA licence. This licence is required for businesses that provide private security services in India.
Think about a large wedding with hundreds of guests. Someone needs to check entry passes, watch the gates, look after restricted areas and help protect guests and property. If your business provides security guards for these jobs, you should check the PSARA licence requirements before taking up the work. But there is an important difference. A company that only plans weddings, books venues, arranges food or manages decorations does not need a PSARA licence just for organising events. The licence requirement mainly concerns businesses that provide private security services.
In this article , we explain when an event security agency needs a PSARA licence, who can apply, which documents are needed, how to apply and what rules the agency must follow.
What Is a PSARA Licence?
PSARA stands for the Private Security Agencies (Regulation) Act, 2005. It is the law that sets the rules for businesses that provide private security services in India.
A PSARA licence is permission from the concerned state authority to run a private security agency. It helps make sure that security agencies hire suitable guards, arrange proper training and follow the rules while providing security services.
An event security agency may provide guards for:

Weddings and marriage functions
Concerts and music festivals
Trade fairs and exhibitions
Corporate meetings and business events
Sports events and tournaments
Religious gatherings and public functions
Product launches and award ceremonies
Private parties and large public gatherings

These guards may check entry passes, guide visitors, watch restricted areas, manage queues and help protect people and property during an event.
The main purpose of PSARA is to make private security services more organised and responsible. It also gives the authorities a way to check who is running these agencies and whether they are following the required rules.
When Does an Event Security Agency Need a PSARA Licence?
An event security agency generally needs a PSARA licence when it provides private security guards to clients as a business. The licence requirement does not disappear just because the event lasts for one day or a few hours.
For example, imagine that you run a company that provides 20 guards for a three-day music festival. Your guards check entry passes, watch backstage areas, protect equipment and help keep the venue secure. Since your business is providing private security services, you should obtain the required PSARA licence before starting this work.
Here are some common examples:

Business activity

Is a PSARA licence generally required?

Providing security guards for weddings

Yes, if you are providing private security services

Providing guards for concerts and festivals

Yes

Providing guards for exhibitions and trade fairs

Yes

Providing security guards for corporate events

Yes

Providing bouncers for clubs and private events

Depends on their actual duties and the service being provided

Planning weddings and booking venues

No, not for event planning alone

Providing decoration, lighting or sound services

No, not for these services alone

Hiring an outside licensed security agency

The hired security agency should have the required licence

What about bouncers and crowd managers?
Some businesses use terms such as bouncers, event marshals or crowd managers instead of security guards. But the job title alone does not decide whether PSARA applies.
For example, a person who only guides visitors towards their seats may have a different role from someone who checks people at the entrance, guards restricted areas or protects guests and property. The actual work and the way the service is provided matter. If your business is providing people to perform private security duties, check the PSARA requirements before accepting the assignment.
Event Organiser vs Event Security Agency: What Is the Difference?
Many people get confused about this point because event organisers and security agencies work together at the same venue. However, their jobs are different.
An event organiser looks after the arrangements. A security agency provides guards to help protect people and property.

Event organiser

Event security agency

Plans the event

Provides security guards

Books the venue

Checks entry and restricted areas

Arranges food and decoration

Watches over guests and property

Manages invitations and schedules

Helps manage security-related situations

Coordinates with vendors

Deploys guards and supervisors

Does not need PSARA just for event planning

Generally needs PSARA to run a private security agency

Example: A company is organising a wedding and hires an outside security agency to provide 15 guards. The event company looks after the wedding arrangements, while the security agency provides the guards.
In this case, the event company does not need a PSARA licence just because it is organising the wedding. The security agency providing the guards must have the required licence. However, if the event company starts providing security guards through its own business, it should check whether it needs a PSARA licence for that service.
Who Can Apply for a PSARA Licence?
A person or business planning to provide private security services can apply for a PSARA licence, provided it meets the conditions under the Act and the applicable state rules.

You can set up an eligible security agency as:

A proprietorship
A partnership firm
A Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
A private limited company

The applicant and the people managing the business must meet the conditions given under PSARA. The authority also checks the background of the applicant and the people connected with the agency.
Before applying, keep these points in mind:

The business must be properly set up in India.
The applicant must meet the conditions under PSARA.
The proprietor, partners, directors or other relevant persons must provide the details needed for background checks.
The agency must arrange the training required for its security guards and supervisors.
The applicant must provide the required details about any relevant police cases or court matters.
The agency must be ready to follow the rules of the state where it plans to provide security services.

A person who falls under the disqualification conditions of the Act may not be allowed to obtain a licence. The authority checks the applicant's details before making a decision. The exact requirements should be checked for the state where you plan to start the agency.
Documents Required for a PSARA Licence
Before applying, it is better to keep your business and personal documents ready. This can help avoid delays caused by missing information.
The documents may differ from one state to another, but the following are commonly needed:

Document

Why is it needed?

PAN card of the applicant or business

To confirm tax and business details

Aadhaar or other identity proof

To check the applicant's identity

Address proof

To confirm the applicant's address

Business registration proof

To show how the business is registered

Certificate of Incorporation

For a company

Partnership deed or LLP agreement

Where applicable

Registered office address proof

To confirm the business address

Details of directors, partners or proprietor

For background checks

Photographs of the applicant and relevant persons

For identification

Bank details or financial documents

Where required by the state authority

Prescribed application form and affidavit

To provide the information and declarations required

Details of training arrangements

To show how guards and supervisors will receive the required training

The authority may ask for additional documents or clarification after checking your application. So, do not depend on a document list from another state without checking your own state's latest requirements.
How to Apply for a PSARA Licence?
The PSARA application is made to the Controlling Authority appointed by the state government. This is the authority responsible for checking applications and granting licences.
Step 1: Set up your business
First, decide how you want to run your agency. It may be a proprietorship, partnership, LLP or company. Complete the required business registration and keep your business address and other details ready.
Step 2: Check whether you meet the requirements
Check the eligibility conditions for the applicant and the people managing the business. Make sure there are no issues that may prevent the applicant from getting a licence.
Step 3: Collect the documents
Prepare your identity proofs, address proofs, business registration documents, photographs, affidavits and other papers required by the state authority.
Step 4: Arrange security guard training
Your agency must have arrangements for the training required under PSARA and the applicable state rules. Training is an important part of running a security agency. Guards should know how to perform their duties and respond to common security situations.
Step 5: Submit the application
Fill in the prescribed application form and submit it with the required documents and government fee to the concerned authority. You can also check whether your state allows online applications through the PSARA licensing portal.
Step 6: Complete the verification process
The authority checks the application and may seek police verification or other reports. If any document or detail is missing, you may be asked to provide it.
Step 7: Receive your licence
If the authority is satisfied with the application, it may grant the PSARA licence. Check the licence details carefully, especially the approved area of operation.
Do not start providing private security services just because you have submitted the application. Wait until the licence has been granted.

For detailed explanation about registration process , kindly visit : PSARA License Registration Guide

PSARA Licence Fees and Validity
The government fee for a PSARA licence depends on the area in which your agency wants to provide security services.
Under the PSARA Act, the application fee is:

Area covered by the licence

Government application fee

One district

Rs5,000

More than one and up to five districts

Rs10,000

Whole state

Rs25,000

For example, if you want to provide security services in one district, the fee is Rs5,000. If you plan to cover the whole state, the fee is Rs25,000.
These are the fees mentioned in the Act. Before making payment, check the latest instructions on the concerned state's application portal for the amount payable and any other applicable charges.

For more details visit : PSARA License Fee Guide

How long is a PSARA licence valid?
A PSARA licence is generally valid for five years, unless it is cancelled earlier by the authority. It can be renewed for another five years by following the renewal process.
The renewal deadline can depend on the applicable state rules. The central Act refers to an application at least 45 days before expiry, while some state rules require an earlier application. For example, the Delhi rules require the renewal application to be made at least 90 days before expiry. It is better not to wait until the last few days. Check your state's renewal deadline and start the process in advance.
Rules Every Event Security Agency Must Follow
Getting a PSARA licence is only the first step. An agency must also follow the rules while hiring guards and providing security services.
Here are some important responsibilities:

Hire eligible security guards

The agency must check whether each guard meets the conditions under PSARA. The Act generally sets the age range for a private security guard at 18 to 65 years. The guard must also meet the required conditions related to citizenship, background, training and physical standards.

Provide proper training

Security guards must complete the training required under the applicable rules. For event security, training can cover areas such as crowd control, checking identity cards, first aid, fire safety and responding to emergencies.

Appoint supervisors

The agency must arrange supervisors as required under PSARA and the state rules. Supervisors help manage the guards and make sure they carry out their duties properly.

Give guards identity cards

Security guards should be given the required photo identity cards by the agency. They must carry their identity cards while on duty.

Maintain proper records

The agency must maintain the required details of its guards, supervisors, managers and clients. These records should be kept up to date.

Display the PSARA licence

The agency must display its licence, or a copy of it, at a visible place at its business premises.

Follow the licence conditions

The agency must provide services within the area covered by its licence and follow the conditions mentioned in it. It should also report changes to the authority whenever required.
These rules help an agency provide security services in an organised way. They also help clients understand that the agency is following the required process.
What Should Event Organisers Check Before Hiring a Security Agency?
If you are organising a wedding, concert, exhibition or corporate event, hiring security guards is an important part of the planning. But do not select an agency only because it offers a low price or promises to provide a large number of guards.
Checklist Before Hiring an Event Security Agency

What to check

What you should confirm

PSARA Licence

Ask for a copy of the agency's PSARA licence.

Area covered

Make sure the licence covers the state where your event will take place.

Agency details

Check that the agency's name matches the name mentioned on the licence.

Guard training

Ask whether the guards have completed the required training.

Number of guards

Decide how many guards are needed for entry gates, parking areas, backstage sections and other important places.

Supervisor arrangements

Confirm who will manage and supervise the guards during the event.

Duty timings

Clearly mention reporting time, shift timings and the end of duty in the agreement.

Emergency arrangements

Confirm whom the guards should contact if a security problem occurs.

For a small wedding, you may need guards mainly at the entrance and parking area. A large concert may require more guards at entry gates, backstage areas and other restricted places.
What Happens If You Run an Event Security Agency Without a PSARA Licence?
If your business is providing private security services without the required PSARA licence, it can face legal action. Section 4 of the PSARA Act says that a person cannot start or run a private security agency without holding the required licence.
Under Section 20(1), operating a private security agency without a licence can lead to imprisonment for up to one year, a fine of up to Rs 25,000, or both. The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026 changed other parts of the penalty provisions, but this penalty for operating without a licence remains in the current text of Section 20(1).
Apart from the legal consequences, working without a licence can also create problems for your business:

Clients may refuse to hire your agency.
Event organisers may ask for a licence before signing a contract.
Your business may face problems during official checks.
Your reputation may suffer.
You may lose future opportunities to provide security services.

If you are planning to start an event security agency, it is better to check the licence requirement before accepting your first assignment.
How Compliance Calendar Can Help with PSARA Licence
Starting an event security agency involves more than hiring guards and finding clients. You also need to understand the licence requirements, prepare the documents and follow the rules of the state where you plan to work.
If you are not sure where to start, Compliance Calendar can help you understand the PSARA application process and guide you through the required steps.
Our team can assist you with:

Understanding whether your business needs a PSARA licence
Checking the basic eligibility requirements
Preparing the documents needed for the application
Understanding the state-wise application process
Assisting with the application and follow-up
Guiding you on licence renewal requirements

Whether you plan to provide security guards for weddings, concerts, exhibitions or corporate events, it is important to start with the correct licence and follow the applicable rules.

Need help with a PSARA licence for your event security agency?
Contact Compliance Calendar at +91 9988424211 or email info@ccoffice.in to discuss your requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is a PSARA licence required for an event security agency?
Yes. If your business provides private security guards to protect people or property at events, it generally needs a PSARA licence. The exact requirement depends on the work your business performs.
Q2. Does an event management company need a PSARA licence?
No, not just for organising events. If the company only handles planning, decoration, catering or venue booking, it does not need a PSARA licence for those activities. But if it also provides private security guards, PSARA requirements may apply.
Q3. Can I provide security guards for weddings without a PSARA licence?
If you are running a business that provides private security guards for weddings, you should obtain the required PSARA licence before starting the service. A one-day event does not automatically remove the licensing requirement.
Q4. Can a new company apply for a PSARA licence?
Yes. A newly formed eligible business can apply, provided it meets the requirements under the Act and the relevant state rules.
Q5. Can a proprietorship apply for a PSARA licence?
Yes. An eligible individual or proprietorship can apply, subject to meeting the required conditions and completing the verification process.
Q6. Is a separate PSARA licence needed for every state?
A PSARA licence covers the approved area of operation. You can apply for a licence covering one district, more than one district or the whole state. If you want to work in another state, check that state's licensing requirements.
Q7. What is the government fee for a PSARA licence?
The application fee under the Act is ?5,000 for one district, ?10,000 for more than one and up to five districts, and ?25,000 for the whole state. Check the current state portal before making payment.
Q8. How long is a PSARA licence valid?
A PSARA licence is generally valid for five years. It can be renewed for another five years, subject to the applicable rules.
Q9. Do event security guards need training?
Yes. Security guards must complete the training required under PSARA and the applicable state rules. An agency should make sure its guards are properly trained before sending them for duty.
Q10. Can I hire bouncers for an event without a PSARA licence?
It depends on the work they perform and the arrangement under which they are hired. If your business provides people to guard or protect guests or property as a private security service, PSARA requirements may apply. The job title alone does not decide the requirement.
Q11. Can an event organiser hire an outside security agency?
Yes. An event organiser can hire an outside security agency. Before hiring, it is sensible to check that the agency holds the required PSARA licence for the area where the event will take place.

If you run a business that provides security guards for weddings, concerts, exhibitions, festivals or corporate events, you may need a PSARA licence. This licence is required for businesses that provide private security services in India.

Think about a large wedding with hundreds of guests. Someone needs to check entry passes, watch the gates, look after restricted areas and help protect guests and property. If your business provides security guards for these jobs, you should check the PSARA licence requirements before taking up the work. But there is an important difference. A company that only plans weddings, books venues, arranges food or manages decorations does not need a PSARA licence just for organising events. The licence requirement mainly concerns businesses that provide private security services.

In this article , we explain when an event security agency needs a PSARA licence, who can apply, which documents are needed, how to apply and what rules the agency must follow.

What Is a PSARA Licence?

PSARA stands for the Private Security Agencies (Regulation) Act, 2005. It is the law that sets the rules for businesses that provide private security services in India.

A PSARA licence is permission from the concerned state authority to run a private security agency. It helps make sure that security agencies hire suitable guards, arrange proper training and follow the rules while providing security services.

An event security agency may provide guards for:

Weddings and marriage functions
Concerts and music festivals
Trade fairs and exhibitions
Corporate meetings and business events
Sports events and tournaments
Religious gatherings and public functions
Product launches and award ceremonies
Private parties and large public gatherings

These guards may check entry passes, guide visitors, watch restricted areas, manage queues and help protect people and property during an event.

The main purpose of PSARA is to make private security services more organised and responsible. It also gives the authorities a way to check who is running these agencies and whether they are following the required rules.

When Does an Event Security Agency Need a PSARA Licence?

An event security agency generally needs a PSARA licence when it provides private security guards to clients as a business. The licence requirement does not disappear just because the event lasts for one day or a few hours.

For example, imagine that you run a company that provides 20 guards for a three-day music festival. Your guards check entry passes, watch backstage areas, protect equipment and help keep the venue secure. Since your business is providing private security services, you should obtain the required PSARA licence before starting this work.

Here are some common examples:

Business activity	Is a PSARA licence generally required?
Providing security guards for weddings	Yes, if you are providing private security services
Providing guards for concerts and festivals	Yes
Providing guards for exhibitions and trade fairs	Yes
Providing security guards for corporate events	Yes
Providing bouncers for clubs and private events	Depends on their actual duties and the service being provided
Planning weddings and booking venues	No, not for event planning alone
Providing decoration, lighting or sound services	No, not for these services alone
Hiring an outside licensed security agency	The hired security agency should have the required licence

What about bouncers and crowd managers?

Some businesses use terms such as bouncers, event marshals or crowd managers instead of security guards. But the job title alone does not decide whether PSARA applies.

For example, a person who only guides visitors towards their seats may have a different role from someone who checks people at the entrance, guards restricted areas or protects guests and property. The actual work and the way the service is provided matter. If your business is providing people to perform private security duties, check the PSARA requirements before accepting the assignment.

Event Organiser vs Event Security Agency: What Is the Difference?

Many people get confused about this point because event organisers and security agencies work together at the same venue. However, their jobs are different.

An event organiser looks after the arrangements. A security agency provides guards to help protect people and property.

Event organiser	Event security agency
Plans the event	Provides security guards
Books the venue	Checks entry and restricted areas
Arranges food and decoration	Watches over guests and property
Manages invitations and schedules	Helps manage security-related situations
Coordinates with vendors	Deploys guards and supervisors
Does not need PSARA just for event planning	Generally needs PSARA to run a private security agency

Example: A company is organising a wedding and hires an outside security agency to provide 15 guards. The event company looks after the wedding arrangements, while the security agency provides the guards.

In this case, the event company does not need a PSARA licence just because it is organising the wedding. The security agency providing the guards must have the required licence. However, if the event company starts providing security guards through its own business, it should check whether it needs a PSARA licence for that service.

Who Can Apply for a PSARA Licence?

A person or business planning to provide private security services can apply for a PSARA licence, provided it meets the conditions under the Act and the applicable state rules.

You can set up an eligible security agency as:

The applicant and the people managing the business must meet the conditions given under PSARA. The authority also checks the background of the applicant and the people connected with the agency.

Before applying, keep these points in mind:

The business must be properly set up in India.
The applicant must meet the conditions under PSARA.
The proprietor, partners, directors or other relevant persons must provide the details needed for background checks.
The agency must arrange the training required for its security guards and supervisors.
The applicant must provide the required details about any relevant police cases or court matters.
The agency must be ready to follow the rules of the state where it plans to provide security services.

Documents Required for a PSARA Licence

Before applying, it is better to keep your business and personal documents ready. This can help avoid delays caused by missing information.

The documents may differ from one state to another, but the following are commonly needed:

Document	Why is it needed?
PAN card of the applicant or business	To confirm tax and business details
Aadhaar or other identity proof	To check the applicant's identity
Address proof	To confirm the applicant's address
Business registration proof	To show how the business is registered
Certificate of Incorporation	For a company
Partnership deed or LLP agreement	Where applicable
Registered office address proof	To confirm the business address
Details of directors, partners or proprietor	For background checks
Photographs of the applicant and relevant persons	For identification
Bank details or financial documents	Where required by the state authority
Prescribed application form and affidavit	To provide the information and declarations required
Details of training arrangements	To show how guards and supervisors will receive the required training

How to Apply for a PSARA Licence?

The PSARA application is made to the Controlling Authority appointed by the state government. This is the authority responsible for checking applications and granting licences.

Step 1: Set up your business

First, decide how you want to run your agency. It may be a proprietorship, partnership, LLP or company. Complete the required business registration and keep your business address and other details ready.

Step 2: Check whether you meet the requirements

Check the eligibility conditions for the applicant and the people managing the business. Make sure there are no issues that may prevent the applicant from getting a licence.

Step 3: Collect the documents

Prepare your identity proofs, address proofs, business registration documents, photographs, affidavits and other papers required by the state authority.

Step 4: Arrange security guard training

Your agency must have arrangements for the training required under PSARA and the applicable state rules. Training is an important part of running a security agency. Guards should know how to perform their duties and respond to common security situations.

Step 5: Submit the application

Fill in the prescribed application form and submit it with the required documents and government fee to the concerned authority. You can also check whether your state allows online applications through the PSARA licensing portal.

Step 6: Complete the verification process

The authority checks the application and may seek police verification or other reports. If any document or detail is missing, you may be asked to provide it.

Step 7: Receive your licence

If the authority is satisfied with the application, it may grant the PSARA licence. Check the licence details carefully, especially the approved area of operation.

Do not start providing private security services just because you have submitted the application. Wait until the licence has been granted.

For detailed explanation about registration process , kindly visit : PSARA License Registration Guide

PSARA Licence Fees and Validity

The government fee for a PSARA licence depends on the area in which your agency wants to provide security services.

Under the PSARA Act, the application fee is:

Area covered by the licence	Government application fee
One district	Rs5,000
More than one and up to five districts	Rs10,000
Whole state	Rs25,000

For example, if you want to provide security services in one district, the fee is Rs5,000. If you plan to cover the whole state, the fee is Rs25,000.

These are the fees mentioned in the Act. Before making payment, check the latest instructions on the concerned state's application portal for the amount payable and any other applicable charges.

For more details visit : PSARA License Fee Guide

How long is a PSARA licence valid?

A PSARA licence is generally valid for five years, unless it is cancelled earlier by the authority. It can be renewed for another five years by following the renewal process.

The renewal deadline can depend on the applicable state rules. The central Act refers to an application at least 45 days before expiry, while some state rules require an earlier application. For example, the Delhi rules require the renewal application to be made at least 90 days before expiry. It is better not to wait until the last few days. Check your state's renewal deadline and start the process in advance.

Rules Every Event Security Agency Must Follow

Getting a PSARA licence is only the first step. An agency must also follow the rules while hiring guards and providing security services.

Here are some important responsibilities:

Hire eligible security guards

Provide proper training

Appoint supervisors

The agency must arrange supervisors as required under PSARA and the state rules. Supervisors help manage the guards and make sure they carry out their duties properly.

Give guards identity cards

Security guards should be given the required photo identity cards by the agency. They must carry their identity cards while on duty.

Maintain proper records

The agency must maintain the required details of its guards, supervisors, managers and clients. These records should be kept up to date.

Display the PSARA licence

The agency must display its licence, or a copy of it, at a visible place at its business premises.

Follow the licence conditions

The agency must provide services within the area covered by its licence and follow the conditions mentioned in it. It should also report changes to the authority whenever required.

These rules help an agency provide security services in an organised way. They also help clients understand that the agency is following the required process.

What Should Event Organisers Check Before Hiring a Security Agency?

If you are organising a wedding, concert, exhibition or corporate event, hiring security guards is an important part of the planning. But do not select an agency only because it offers a low price or promises to provide a large number of guards.

Checklist Before Hiring an Event Security Agency

What to check	What you should confirm
PSARA Licence	Ask for a copy of the agency's PSARA licence.
Area covered	Make sure the licence covers the state where your event will take place.
Agency details	Check that the agency's name matches the name mentioned on the licence.
Guard training	Ask whether the guards have completed the required training.
Number of guards	Decide how many guards are needed for entry gates, parking areas, backstage sections and other important places.
Supervisor arrangements	Confirm who will manage and supervise the guards during the event.
Duty timings	Clearly mention reporting time, shift timings and the end of duty in the agreement.
Emergency arrangements	Confirm whom the guards should contact if a security problem occurs.

For a small wedding, you may need guards mainly at the entrance and parking area. A large concert may require more guards at entry gates, backstage areas and other restricted places.

What Happens If You Run an Event Security Agency Without a PSARA Licence?

If your business is providing private security services without the required PSARA licence, it can face legal action. Section 4 of the PSARA Act says that a person cannot start or run a private security agency without holding the required licence.

Under Section 20(1), operating a private security agency without a licence can lead to imprisonment for up to one year, a fine of up to Rs 25,000, or both. The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026 changed other parts of the penalty provisions, but this penalty for operating without a licence remains in the current text of Section 20(1).

Apart from the legal consequences, working without a licence can also create problems for your business:

Clients may refuse to hire your agency.
Event organisers may ask for a licence before signing a contract.
Your business may face problems during official checks.
Your reputation may suffer.
You may lose future opportunities to provide security services.

If you are planning to start an event security agency, it is better to check the licence requirement before accepting your first assignment.

How Compliance Calendar Can Help with PSARA Licence

Starting an event security agency involves more than hiring guards and finding clients. You also need to understand the licence requirements, prepare the documents and follow the rules of the state where you plan to work.

If you are not sure where to start, Compliance Calendar can help you understand the PSARA application process and guide you through the required steps.

Our team can assist you with:

Understanding whether your business needs a PSARA licence
Checking the basic eligibility requirements
Preparing the documents needed for the application
Understanding the state-wise application process
Assisting with the application and follow-up
Guiding you on licence renewal requirements

Whether you plan to provide security guards for weddings, concerts, exhibitions or corporate events, it is important to start with the correct licence and follow the applicable rules.

Need help with a PSARA licence for your event security agency?

Contact Compliance Calendar at +91 9988424211 or email info@ccoffice.in to discuss your requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is a PSARA licence required for an event security agency?

Yes. If your business provides private security guards to protect people or property at events, it generally needs a PSARA licence. The exact requirement depends on the work your business performs.

Q2. Does an event management company need a PSARA licence?

No, not just for organising events. If the company only handles planning, decoration, catering or venue booking, it does not need a PSARA licence for those activities. But if it also provides private security guards, PSARA requirements may apply.

Q3. Can I provide security guards for weddings without a PSARA licence?

If you are running a business that provides private security guards for weddings, you should obtain the required PSARA licence before starting the service. A one-day event does not automatically remove the licensing requirement.

Q4. Can a new company apply for a PSARA licence?

Yes. A newly formed eligible business can apply, provided it meets the requirements under the Act and the relevant state rules.

Q5. Can a proprietorship apply for a PSARA licence?

Yes. An eligible individual or proprietorship can apply, subject to meeting the required conditions and completing the verification process.

Q6. Is a separate PSARA licence needed for every state?

A PSARA licence covers the approved area of operation. You can apply for a licence covering one district, more than one district or the whole state. If you want to work in another state, check that state's licensing requirements.

Q7. What is the government fee for a PSARA licence?

The application fee under the Act is ?5,000 for one district, ?10,000 for more than one and up to five districts, and ?25,000 for the whole state. Check the current state portal before making payment.

Q8. How long is a PSARA licence valid?

A PSARA licence is generally valid for five years. It can be renewed for another five years, subject to the applicable rules.

Q9. Do event security guards need training?

Yes. Security guards must complete the training required under PSARA and the applicable state rules. An agency should make sure its guards are properly trained before sending them for duty.

Q10. Can I hire bouncers for an event without a PSARA licence?

It depends on the work they perform and the arrangement under which they are hired. If your business provides people to guard or protect guests or property as a private security service, PSARA requirements may apply. The job title alone does not decide the requirement.

Q11. Can an event organiser hire an outside security agency?

Yes. An event organiser can hire an outside security agency. Before hiring, it is sensible to check that the agency holds the required PSARA licence for the area where the event will take place.

Article last updated on : 04 Nov 2026.