Subject to subsection (b) of this section, a security guard must hold a valid permit to carry a handgun under Title 5, Subtitle 3 of the Public Safety Article before carrying a handgun while providing security guard services. A security guard may not carry a handgun while providing security guard services until: receiving approval to carry a handgun from the licensed security guard agency or security guard employer; notifying the Secretary of the intent of the security guard to carry a handgun while providing security guard services; and the Secretary confirms that the security guard has a valid permit to carry a handgun under Title 5, Subtitle 3 of the Public Safety Article and has not been convicted of a disqualifying crime under § 5–101 of the Public Safety Article.