To work as a security guard in California, you must be licensed by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). This applies to both unarmed and armed security officers. BSIS sets the state’s training and eligibility requirements for private security guards.

Unarmed Security Guard Requirements

To qualify as an unarmed security guard in California, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Provide documentation proving your legal right to work in the U.S.
• Submit fingerprints and pass a background check conducted by the FBI and DOJ (a $49 fee applies). Any violent crimes or felonies will disqualify you from obtaining a license.
• Complete 40 hours of BSIS-approved training from a BSIS-certified training provider.

The first 8 hours of training must be completed before applying for a Guard Card:

• Power to Arrest (4 hours)
• Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) & Terrorism Awareness (4 hours)

The remaining 32 hours can be completed while on the job:

• 16 hours within the first 30 days
• 16 hours within the first 6 months

Mandatory Training Topics

BSIS training includes both mandatory and elective courses. Required topics include:

• Public Relations
• Observation & Documentation
• Communication
• Legal Aspects & Liability

Elective training covers areas such as crowd control, fire safety, first aid/CPR, parking enforcement, workplace violence, and emergency procedures.

Application & License Renewal

To apply for a California Guard Card, you must:

• Complete the mandatory 8-hour pre-license training.
• Submit an application to BSIS along with a $55 fee.
• Create a BreEZe account to track your application, make payments, and manage renewals.
• Complete annual refresher training (8 hours) to maintain your license.

Start your California security career today with Guard Training – enroll now and get licensed on your terms.