PSARA Training Institute MoU

Published on: 02 Nov 2026

PSARA Training Institute MoU. What Is a PSARA Training Institute MoU?
A PSARA Training Institute MoU is an agreement between a private security agency and a training institute. It explains how the institute will provide training to the agency's security guards and supervisors. For example, suppose you want to start a security agency in Delhi and plan to hire 20 security guards, but you do not have your own training centre. You may arrange their training through a suitable training institute. The written agreement between your agency and the institute is commonly called an MoU (Memorandum of Understanding).
The MoU can explain the training services, number of guards, training schedule, fees, responsibilities of both parties and certificates to be issued after successful training. Remember that an MoU is not the same as a PSARA License. An MoU is an agreement for training arrangements, while a PSARA License is the legal permission required to operate a private security agency.
Is an MoU Mandatory for PSARA License Registration?
An MoU is not expressly prescribed as a separate, compulsory document for every PSARA application under the Central Model Rules, 2020. However, this does not mean that you can ignore training arrangements. Under Section 9 of the PSARA Act, every private security agency must ensure that its guards and supervisors receive the prescribed training. Section 11 also makes the licensee's training a condition for grant of the licence. The application process and supporting documents must be checked under the rules and instructions of the concerned state.
In practice, an agency may be asked to provide details or proof of its training arrangements. This can include an MoU with a training institute, particularly where the agency plans to outsource training. Before signing an MoU, check the application form and document checklist issued by the Controlling Authority in your state. You can also read our guide on PSARA License Registration in India to understand the overall licensing process.
Can a Security Agency Arrange Its Own Training?
Yes. An agency may arrange training through its own facility or an external training institute, subject to the applicable rules and approval requirements. There are generally two ways to manage training.
Own training facility: The agency arranges its own training facility and takes responsibility for meeting the prescribed training requirements. It must check whether any approval, recognition, inspection or other formalities apply to its training setup.
Outsourced training: The agency works with an external training institute to train its guards and supervisors. The institute provides the training, and the agency keeps the required records and certificates. For example, a new agency planning to hire 10 guards may find it easier to arrange training through an existing recognised institute rather than setting up its own training centre. In either case, the agency remains responsible for ensuring that its guards receive the required training.
Does the Training Institute Need Government Recognition?
Yes. This is an important point that agencies should not overlook. The Ministry of Home Affairs issued an SOP on 2 May 2023 for the recognition or licensing of private security training institutes by the Controlling Authorities of states and Union Territories. Under this SOP, training institutes providing training under the PSARA framework must apply for recognition with the concerned Controlling Authority.
The recognition is generally granted for five years and can be renewed for another five years, subject to the applicable conditions. Before signing an MoU, ask the institute for its recognition or licence details, name and address of the training centre, authorised training courses, details of the person responsible for training and its process for issuing training certificates. You can also check the recognised training institute information through the official PSARA portal.
Do not assume that every private security training centre is automatically recognised for PSARA training.
What Should a PSARA Training Institute MoU Include?
There is no single universal MoU format that every agency must use across India. However, a clear agreement should explain the training arrangement and responsibilities of both parties. It should normally include the following details:

MoU Detail

What It Should Explain

Agency details

Name, address and contact information

Training institute details

Legal name, address and recognition details

Training scope

Training for guards, supervisors or both

Number of trainees

Expected number of guards or supervisors

Training duration

Schedule and required training hours

Training fees

Charges and payment terms

Responsibilities

Duties of the agency and institute

Attendance records

How attendance and completion will be recorded

Certificates

Process for issuing training certificates

Agreement period

Start date, end date and renewal terms

Signatures

Authorised representatives of both parties

Both parties should read the agreement carefully before signing it. Keep a signed copy with your business records so that you can provide it if the licensing authority asks for proof of your training arrangement.
What Is the Mandatory Training Duration Under PSARA?
The Central Model Rules, 2020 prescribe minimum training requirements for security guards and supervisors. New guards and supervisors require 100 hours of classroom training and 60 hours of field training over at least 20 working days. Eligible ex-servicemen and former police personnel have a shorter requirement of 40 classroom hours and 16 field-training hours over seven working days.

Category

Classroom Training

Field Training

Minimum Duration

New guards and supervisors

100 hours

60 hours

20 working days

Eligible ex-servicemen and former police personnel

40 hours

16 hours

7 working days

Training covers important subjects such as physical security, fire safety, first aid, crowd control, emergency response, public conduct and the use of security equipment. Supervisors also receive training in leadership and management. The agency licensee must complete a separate training course of at least six working days under Rule 4 of the Central Model Rules, 2020. After successful completion, the training institute issues a certificate in the prescribed Form VIII.
Do MoU Requirements and Training Rules Differ by State?
The central PSARA framework provides the main training requirements, but state authorities manage licensing and training institute recognition within their jurisdiction. Therefore, the application process and supporting documents may differ. For example, one state may ask an agency to submit an MoU or training institute details with its application, while another may ask for proof of training arrangements in a different format.
Before applying, check whether an MoU is specifically required, whether an agency can use its own training facility, whether outsourced training is permitted, whether the institute must be recognised by the state, and whether a prescribed agreement format or additional declaration is needed. Do not assume that the same application procedure applies throughout India.
One important clarification is that Rule 8(5) of the Central Model Rules provides for acceptance in other states of training certificates issued to guards and supervisors by training institutes in one state. However, this does not automatically remove the need to check the licensing and application requirements of the state where the agency operates.
Is There a Government Fee for Signing an MoU?
There is no separate, fixed all-India government fee for signing an MoU between a private security agency and a training institute. A training institute may charge the agency for training based on the number of guards, course duration, location and services provided. These charges are commercial terms agreed between the two parties.
Do not confuse training charges with the PSARA government application fee. Under Section 7(3) of the Act, the licence application fee depends on the area of operation:

Licence Coverage

Government Application Fee

One district

Rs. 5,000

Two to five districts

Rs. 10,000

Whole state

Rs. 25,000

These are licence application fees, not MoU charges. You can read more in our guide to PSARA License Fees in India.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants often make mistakes because they arrange an MoU without checking the actual requirements. Do not sign an agreement with an institute without checking its recognition status, and do not assume that an MoU alone fulfils the training requirement. Also, avoid using an expired or unclear training agreement or ignoring the prescribed training hours.
Before applying, confirm whether the state authority needs the MoU at the application stage or later. Keep copies of the signed agreement, attendance records and training certificates. These simple checks can help prevent delays and problems during the licensing process.
How Can Compliance Calendar LLP Help?
Understanding PSARA training requirements can be confusing, especially for someone applying for the first time. You may be unsure whether you need an MoU, which training institute to approach or what documents the state authority expects. Compliance Calendar LLP can guide you on the PSARA application process, document preparation and applicable training requirements based on the state where you plan to operate.
For assistance, contact our team:
Phone: +91 9988424211Email: info@ccoffice.in
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is an MoU compulsory for every PSARA License application?
Not as a separate, universally prescribed document under the Central Model Rules, 2020. However, the state Controlling Authority may ask for an MoU or other proof of training arrangements. Always check the state's current application requirements.
2. Can I apply for a PSARA License without an MoU?
You may be able to apply without an MoU if the relevant state's application requirements do not ask for one. However, you must still meet the applicable training requirements and explain how training will be arranged. For more details, read our guide on PSARA License Registration.
3. Can I sign an MoU after applying for a PSARA License?
This depends on the requirements and instructions of the concerned state authority. If the application requires an MoU at the time of submission, you should arrange it beforehand.
4. Can a security agency have its own training centre?
Yes, subject to the applicable recognition, approval and training conditions. The agency must ensure that its training facility meets the requirements prescribed by the Controlling Authority.
5. Can I sign an MoU with any private training institute?
You should check whether the institute has the required recognition or licence from the concerned Controlling Authority. Do not select an institute only because it offers low-cost training.
6. Is there a fixed government fee for a PSARA MoU?
No separate, fixed all-India government fee is prescribed for signing an MoU. The training institute may charge fees based on the agreement and training services. For licence application charges, see PSARA License Fees in India.
7. How many days of training are required for new security guards?
Under the Central Model Rules, 2020, new guards require 100 hours of classroom training and 60 hours of field training over at least 20 working days.
8. Can a training certificate from one state be used in another state?
Yes. Rule 8(5) of the Central Model Rules, 2020 provides for acceptance of training certificates issued to guards and supervisors by training institutes in one state in other states. However, the agency must still meet the licensing requirements of the state where it operates.
9. Does the PSARA licensee also need training?
Yes. Under Rule 4 of the Central Model Rules, 2020, the licensee must complete at least six working days of prescribed training.
10. What happens if a security agency does not provide training to its guards?
Failure to provide the prescribed training can attract a fine of up to Rs. 25,000, along with possible suspension or cancellation of the licence under Section 20(2) of the PSARA Act.
11. How can I check whether a training institute is recognised?
You can check the recognised training institute information on the official PSARA portal or contact the concerned state's Controlling Authority.
12. Is an MoU and a training certificate the same thing?
No. An MoU is an agreement between the agency and the training institute. A training certificate is issued to a trainee after successfully completing the prescribed training.

What Is a PSARA Training Institute MoU?

A PSARA Training Institute MoU is an agreement between a private security agency and a training institute. It explains how the institute will provide training to the agency's security guards and supervisors. For example, suppose you want to start a security agency in Delhi and plan to hire 20 security guards, but you do not have your own training centre. You may arrange their training through a suitable training institute. The written agreement between your agency and the institute is commonly called an MoU (Memorandum of Understanding).

The MoU can explain the training services, number of guards, training schedule, fees, responsibilities of both parties and certificates to be issued after successful training. Remember that an MoU is not the same as a PSARA License. An MoU is an agreement for training arrangements, while a PSARA License is the legal permission required to operate a private security agency.

Is an MoU Mandatory for PSARA License Registration?

An MoU is not expressly prescribed as a separate, compulsory document for every PSARA application under the Central Model Rules, 2020. However, this does not mean that you can ignore training arrangements. Under Section 9 of the PSARA Act, every private security agency must ensure that its guards and supervisors receive the prescribed training. Section 11 also makes the licensee's training a condition for grant of the licence. The application process and supporting documents must be checked under the rules and instructions of the concerned state.

In practice, an agency may be asked to provide details or proof of its training arrangements. This can include an MoU with a training institute, particularly where the agency plans to outsource training. Before signing an MoU, check the application form and document checklist issued by the Controlling Authority in your state. You can also read our guide on PSARA License Registration in India to understand the overall licensing process.

Can a Security Agency Arrange Its Own Training?

Yes. An agency may arrange training through its own facility or an external training institute, subject to the applicable rules and approval requirements. There are generally two ways to manage training.

Own training facility: The agency arranges its own training facility and takes responsibility for meeting the prescribed training requirements. It must check whether any approval, recognition, inspection or other formalities apply to its training setup.

Outsourced training: The agency works with an external training institute to train its guards and supervisors. The institute provides the training, and the agency keeps the required records and certificates. For example, a new agency planning to hire 10 guards may find it easier to arrange training through an existing recognised institute rather than setting up its own training centre. In either case, the agency remains responsible for ensuring that its guards receive the required training.

Does the Training Institute Need Government Recognition?

Yes. This is an important point that agencies should not overlook. The Ministry of Home Affairs issued an SOP on 2 May 2023 for the recognition or licensing of private security training institutes by the Controlling Authorities of states and Union Territories. Under this SOP, training institutes providing training under the PSARA framework must apply for recognition with the concerned Controlling Authority.

The recognition is generally granted for five years and can be renewed for another five years, subject to the applicable conditions. Before signing an MoU, ask the institute for its recognition or licence details, name and address of the training centre, authorised training courses, details of the person responsible for training and its process for issuing training certificates. You can also check the recognised training institute information through the official PSARA portal.

Do not assume that every private security training centre is automatically recognised for PSARA training.

What Should a PSARA Training Institute MoU Include?

There is no single universal MoU format that every agency must use across India. However, a clear agreement should explain the training arrangement and responsibilities of both parties. It should normally include the following details:

MoU Detail	What It Should Explain
Agency details	Name, address and contact information
Training institute details	Legal name, address and recognition details
Training scope	Training for guards, supervisors or both
Number of trainees	Expected number of guards or supervisors
Training duration	Schedule and required training hours
Training fees	Charges and payment terms
Responsibilities	Duties of the agency and institute
Attendance records	How attendance and completion will be recorded
Certificates	Process for issuing training certificates
Agreement period	Start date, end date and renewal terms
Signatures	Authorised representatives of both parties

What Is the Mandatory Training Duration Under PSARA?

The Central Model Rules, 2020 prescribe minimum training requirements for security guards and supervisors. New guards and supervisors require 100 hours of classroom training and 60 hours of field training over at least 20 working days. Eligible ex-servicemen and former police personnel have a shorter requirement of 40 classroom hours and 16 field-training hours over seven working days.

Category	Classroom Training	Field Training	Minimum Duration
New guards and supervisors	100 hours	60 hours	20 working days
Eligible ex-servicemen and former police personnel	40 hours	16 hours	7 working days

Do MoU Requirements and Training Rules Differ by State?

The central PSARA framework provides the main training requirements, but state authorities manage licensing and training institute recognition within their jurisdiction. Therefore, the application process and supporting documents may differ. For example, one state may ask an agency to submit an MoU or training institute details with its application, while another may ask for proof of training arrangements in a different format.

Before applying, check whether an MoU is specifically required, whether an agency can use its own training facility, whether outsourced training is permitted, whether the institute must be recognised by the state, and whether a prescribed agreement format or additional declaration is needed. Do not assume that the same application procedure applies throughout India.

One important clarification is that Rule 8(5) of the Central Model Rules provides for acceptance in other states of training certificates issued to guards and supervisors by training institutes in one state. However, this does not automatically remove the need to check the licensing and application requirements of the state where the agency operates.

Is There a Government Fee for Signing an MoU?

There is no separate, fixed all-India government fee for signing an MoU between a private security agency and a training institute. A training institute may charge the agency for training based on the number of guards, course duration, location and services provided. These charges are commercial terms agreed between the two parties.

Do not confuse training charges with the PSARA government application fee. Under Section 7(3) of the Act, the licence application fee depends on the area of operation:

Licence Coverage	Government Application Fee
One district	Rs. 5,000
Two to five districts	Rs. 10,000
Whole state	Rs. 25,000

These are licence application fees, not MoU charges. You can read more in our guide to PSARA License Fees in India.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants often make mistakes because they arrange an MoU without checking the actual requirements. Do not sign an agreement with an institute without checking its recognition status, and do not assume that an MoU alone fulfils the training requirement. Also, avoid using an expired or unclear training agreement or ignoring the prescribed training hours.

Before applying, confirm whether the state authority needs the MoU at the application stage or later. Keep copies of the signed agreement, attendance records and training certificates. These simple checks can help prevent delays and problems during the licensing process.

How Can Compliance Calendar LLP Help?

Understanding PSARA training requirements can be confusing, especially for someone applying for the first time. You may be unsure whether you need an MoU, which training institute to approach or what documents the state authority expects. Compliance Calendar LLP can guide you on the PSARA application process, document preparation and applicable training requirements based on the state where you plan to operate.

For assistance, contact our team:

Phone: +91 9988424211
Email: info@ccoffice.in

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is an MoU compulsory for every PSARA License application?

Not as a separate, universally prescribed document under the Central Model Rules, 2020. However, the state Controlling Authority may ask for an MoU or other proof of training arrangements. Always check the state's current application requirements.

2. Can I apply for a PSARA License without an MoU?

You may be able to apply without an MoU if the relevant state's application requirements do not ask for one. However, you must still meet the applicable training requirements and explain how training will be arranged. For more details, read our guide on PSARA License Registration.

3. Can I sign an MoU after applying for a PSARA License?

This depends on the requirements and instructions of the concerned state authority. If the application requires an MoU at the time of submission, you should arrange it beforehand.

4. Can a security agency have its own training centre?

Yes, subject to the applicable recognition, approval and training conditions. The agency must ensure that its training facility meets the requirements prescribed by the Controlling Authority.

5. Can I sign an MoU with any private training institute?

You should check whether the institute has the required recognition or licence from the concerned Controlling Authority. Do not select an institute only because it offers low-cost training.

6. Is there a fixed government fee for a PSARA MoU?

No separate, fixed all-India government fee is prescribed for signing an MoU. The training institute may charge fees based on the agreement and training services. For licence application charges, see PSARA License Fees in India.

7. How many days of training are required for new security guards?

Under the Central Model Rules, 2020, new guards require 100 hours of classroom training and 60 hours of field training over at least 20 working days.

8. Can a training certificate from one state be used in another state?

Yes. Rule 8(5) of the Central Model Rules, 2020 provides for acceptance of training certificates issued to guards and supervisors by training institutes in one state in other states. However, the agency must still meet the licensing requirements of the state where it operates.

9. Does the PSARA licensee also need training?

Yes. Under Rule 4 of the Central Model Rules, 2020, the licensee must complete at least six working days of prescribed training.

10. What happens if a security agency does not provide training to its guards?

Failure to provide the prescribed training can attract a fine of up to Rs. 25,000, along with possible suspension or cancellation of the licence under Section 20(2) of the PSARA Act.

11. How can I check whether a training institute is recognised?

You can check the recognised training institute information on the official PSARA portal or contact the concerned state's Controlling Authority.

12. Is an MoU and a training certificate the same thing?

No. An MoU is an agreement between the agency and the training institute. A training certificate is issued to a trainee after successfully completing the prescribed training.

Article last updated on : 02 Nov 2026.