Ready to protect business and public members across CA?
In the five stages of this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of passing checks, completing training, and applying for a license, helping you learn how to become a security guard in California. Let’s get started.
The Stages of Becoming a Security Guard in CA
You must pass each of the following stages to become a fully licensed security guard in California.
1. Meeting Basic Requirements
In California, you must be at least 18 years old to be eligible to apply for your security guard license, also known as a guard card.
This is the only basic requirement for becoming a security guard in the state, and, unlike some other states, you do not need a GED or high school diploma.
For more information on other state recruitments and general guidelines, check out our guide to becoming a security guard in the US.
2. Passing Checks
Before applying for your license, you must undergo a criminal background check through the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Head to the California Bureau’s website and complete the Security Guard Request for Live Scan Service form. After your request has been approved, you’ll be asked to go to a Live Scan site to complete fingerprinting.
Once your fingerprints are processed, the DOJ and FBI will review your criminal background and notify the California Bureau of their findings.
3. Completing Training
Before obtaining a security guard license, applicants must complete a course on the power to arrest and the appropriate use of force.
This training should be completed by an approved provider such as American Security Force. As part of our online security guard modules, we offer a detailed PDF, presentation, and video that covers all the essential elements of this required training.
Upon completing the course, you will receive an official certificate, which can be submitted alongside your license application.
(Here we can have an image of the Guard Training certificate)
4. Obtaining a License
Now, you’re ready to obtain your guard card.
You can apply for security guard registration online through BreEZe or by mailing your application to:
Bureau of Security and Investigative Services
P.O. Box 989002
West Sacramento, CA 95798-9002
Once the Bureau processes your application and issues the security guard registration, you can view it on the “Verify a License” page here.
You can expect to receive your guard card through mail within 3 weeks from when your registration has been issued.
After Licensing
After being officially registered as a security officer by the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services, security guards must complete 32 hours of additional training in security officer skills within six months.
Out of these 32 hours, at least 16 hours must be completed within the first 30 days after registration is issued.
Keep in mind that you will also need to complete 8 hours of continued training annually after receiving your guard card.
Guard Training Tip: If your guard card is denied, you can submit a new application one year later.
5. Applying for Roles
Once you’ve obtained your license, you can apply for roles through LinkedIn or other job search websites.
We also recommend checking out the available roles at American Security Force for a competitive salary and attractive benefits package.
If you want to stand out from other applicants, we recommend completing additional guard training courses, such as Public Relations, Communication, Officer Safety, Observation, and Employer Policies.
Investing your time in this online training can demonstrate your dedication to your growth and proficiency as a security guard, making you a more competitive candidate and increasing your chances of landing higher-quality positions with reputable employers.
Once you’ve received certifications for these courses, you can include the completed training in your security guard CV.
Guard Training Tip: Be ready to discuss how your extra training will help you contribute to your role, as this may be asked during your interview.
For example, you can explain how your online training in liability and legal aspects has prepared you to understand the specific legal responsibilities of a security guard and ensure that your actions comply with regulations.
Prepare Yourself for a Career as a Security Guard with Robust Training
Even after becoming a security guard in California, you’ll need to continually hone and develop your skills to effectively perform your duties.
While hands-on experience can be helpful, regular online training will help you focus on specific areas where you want to improve and allow you to learn new techniques and best practices at your own pace.
Check out our full list of online training courses and enroll today to master the skills needed for a successful security guard career.
For employers, invest in these courses for your employees to build a more capable and confident security team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find out more information about becoming a security guard in CA with these answers to frequently asked questions.
How Much Does It Cost to Become a Security Guard in California?
For your initial application for a guard card in California, you need to pay a $55 fee and a $40 fee every time you renew. You can find the full list of BSIS licensing fees here.
Applicants will also need to pay a $25 processing fee to the DOJ to obtain their criminal history records.
Can I Still Be a Security Guard if I Have a Criminal Record?
Your criminal background check results will determine your eligibility to become a security guard in California.
Small misdemeanors will usually be overlooked but will be evaluated by the state based on the specific circumstances. Serious felonies will automatically disqualify you and prevent you from obtaining your security guard license.
How Long Does It Take to Obtain a Californian Security Guard License?
After completing your guard card application, it will take around 4 – 6 weeks to be processed, but this can take even longer if your application requires additional considerations, such as a criminal record that needs to be reviewed.
It will then take around 3 weeks to receive your guard card, but you can still apply for roles and conduct duties in the meantime as long as you carry a hardcopy printout of the Bureau’s approval and valid photo ID.
What Is the Typical Salary of a Security Guard in California?
According to the job searching platform Indeed, the average base salary for a security guard in California is $19.97 per hour or $46,229 per year.
You can also expect additional benefits such as health insurance and 401(k) contributions on top of your base salary.