Illinois Security Guard Practice Exam

What legal authority does a security guard have in Illinois?

1. To carry firearms without certification

2. To enforce rules and detain individuals

3. To make arrests without approval

4. To conduct searches without consent

The correct answer is: To enforce rules and detain individuals

In Illinois, a security guard has the legal authority to enforce rules and detain individuals, which is a critical function of their role in maintaining safety and security in various environments, such as retail stores, office buildings, and events. This authority allows security personnel to manage situations that may disrupt the peace or safety by intervening and taking necessary actions to detain individuals who are engaging in unlawful behavior or violating established rules until law enforcement can take over if needed. This function is important because it empowers security guards to act as a first line of defense in preventing crime and ensuring compliance with internal regulations. Detention should be carried out in accordance with the law, meaning it must be reasonable and based on probable cause. This authority is grounded in the need for safety and order within the premises they are tasked to protect. The other options involve actions that either exceed the legal boundaries of what security personnel are permitted to do or require specific training and authorization, which security guards typically do not possess.