# PSRA registration and your Guard Force Number: what every security guard needs

> Why private security guards in Kenya must be vetted and registered by the Private Security Regulatory Authority, what a Guard Force Number is, and why employers ask for it.

Source: https://monicahr.com/guides/psra-guard-force-number/
Published by Monica (monicahr.com), written by The Monica team, updated 2026-11-05. Topic: Security guards, Kenya.

Private security in Kenya is regulated. Under the Private Security Regulation Act of 2016, anyone who provides private security services for pay must be vetted and registered by the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA). For a security guard, the proof of that registration is a Guard Force Number. This guide explains what that means for your job search.

> Registration steps, fees and deadlines are set by the PSRA and change. Confirm the current process on the PSRA's official channels, and never pay anyone who offers to sell you a Guard Force Number.

## What is the Private Security Regulatory Authority?

The PSRA is the government body that regulates private security companies and the people who work for them. It registers and licenses security firms, vets and registers guards, and can act against firms and guards who are not registered.

## What is a Guard Force Number?

A Guard Force Number (GFN) is the number the PSRA gives a security guard once they have been vetted and registered. It is the official proof that you are a registered private security officer. Security firms have been asked to show the Guard Force Numbers of their staff when bidding for some government contracts, so many firms ask for one before they hire you.

## Who needs to be registered?

Security guards, supervisors and other private security officers working for pay. Registration drives have also covered bouncers, stewards and close protection officers. If you are paid to protect people or property and you are not a police officer, assume you need to be registered.

## How do you get registered?

The PSRA has run registration drives and announces its current process through its official channels and the media. Expect to be asked for your national ID and to go through security vetting, which usually includes your criminal record, so have a certificate of good conduct ready. Your employer may register you as part of its own staff registration; ask the firm whether it does.

## Why does registration matter for your job search?

- Registered firms want registered guards, because they need your Guard Force Number for their own licence and contracts.
- It shows you have passed vetting, which builds trust with an employer before they meet you.
- Working unregistered puts you and your employer at risk if the PSRA inspects the site.

## What should you do once you have your Guard Force Number?

Put it near the top of your CV, next to your name and training. Keep a copy with your ID, good conduct certificate and training certificates. Then browse [security jobs in Kenya](https://monicahr.com/jobs/roles/security-guards/) and read our guide to [becoming a security guard](https://monicahr.com/guides/how-to-become-a-security-guard-kenya/) for what else employers look for.