Thinking about becoming a security guard? It all starts with obtaining an online guard card.
Getting your guard card isn’t complicated, but it does take time, planning, and the correct documents. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to apply, what to expect, and how to make the process as smooth as possible.
What Is a Guard Card?
A guard card is an official license issued by a state that authorizes someone to work as a security guard. It indicates that the person has completed the required training, passed background checks, and met the standards set by the state or jurisdiction where they plan to work.
The guard card itself is a physical, wallet-sized card similar to a driver’s license. It typically includes:
- Your full name
- Your unique guard registration number
- The card’s expiration date
Do I Need a Guard Card?
Your state will determine whether or not you need a guard card. In some states, security guards aren’t required to hold a card, while in others, they are.
For example, California requires every security guard to have a valid guard card issued by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS).
Even in states that don’t refer to it as a “guard card,” similar requirements often apply under a different name, such as state registration, certification, or a security officer license.
In this guide, we primarily focus on obtaining a guard card in the state of California. If you’re looking to become a security guard in another state, follow our step-by-step guide to get started.
Basic Guard Card Eligibility Requirements
Guard card eligibility varies, but in most states, applicants must be at least 18 or 21 years old, pass a criminal background check, and hold a high school diploma or equivalent.
For a California guard card, here are the eligibility requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Undergo a criminal history background check through the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
- Complete the Powers to Arrest training
Refer to your state’s licensing authority or regulatory agency for updated information on the eligibility requirements for an online guard card.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Guard Card Online
Follow our simple step-by-step guide to get your online guard card.
Step 1: Take the Required Training
If your state requires any prior training, you must complete it before your application. Training can usually be done online by purchasing courses or in person through a BSIS-approved provider.
After completing training, you’ll receive a certificate that you’ll need for your application.
Step 2: Apply Online Through BreEZe
You can apply for security guard registration online through BreEZe, which is California’s official online licensing and application system. The Bureau advises using BreEZe because it bypasses the Cashiering Office, potentially reducing processing times.
Create an account here and set up your profile.
You’ll then be taken to the Quick Start menu, where you can select “Bureau of Security and Investigative Services” from the drop-down list. In the “Choose Application” drop-down, select “Initial Security Guard Registration.”
Next, you’ll be asked a few eligibility questions, such as whether you have a valid U.S. Social Security number and how you plan to pay the application fee. Your answers will determine if you’re eligible to submit your application online.
You’ll also need to answer questions regarding your employment status and veteran status. If you answer “yes” to certain questions, you may be asked to upload proof.
You’ll then enter your personal and contact details.
After that, you’ll provide information about your Power to Arrest training certificate, which you should have received from the instructor or training provider.
Finally, you’ll be directed to pay the $55 guard registration fee. Once payment is complete, your application will be officially submitted.
Tip: Double-check all your information, as typos and incorrect details can lead to delays in processing.
Step 3: Get Fingerprinted (Live Scan)
For California guards, to complete your background check for an online guard card, you’ll need to get fingerprinted through Live Scan.
If you’re applying online through BreEZe, you can proceed with your Live Scan fingerprinting right away. However, if you’re mailing a check, you’ll need to wait until the payment is processed.
Start by downloading the official BSIS Live Scan Form. Then, find a nearby Live Scan provider to arrange an appointment.
When you attend your appointment, please bring a valid photo ID and the completed BSIS Live Scan form.
The Live Scan operator will submit your fingerprints electronically to both the DOJ and FBI.
Before leaving, make sure to get a copy of your Live Scan receipt and keep it for your records.
Tip: Be prepared to pay all required fees, which typically include the Live Scan service fee (between $25 and $50), the DOJ fee (approx $32), and the FBI fee (approx $17).
What Happens Next
Online guard card application processing usually takes 4 to 6 weeks.
Do not contact the Bureau to check your application status unless it’s been more than 60 days since submission. If you haven’t heard back within that time frame, you can:
- Call the Bureau: (916) 322-4000 or (800) 952-5210
- Email: bsis@dca.ca.gov
Fingerprint results typically take about 3 business days from the DOJ and 5 business days from the FBI. If you have a criminal history, processing may take longer.
Sometimes, Live Scan submissions are rejected by the DOJ or FBI, typically due to poor print quality or data entry errors. If that happens, don’t worry. You’ll be notified by mail and can schedule a second fingerprinting session.
You won’t be directly notified once your Live Scan clears, but you can check the status of your fingerprint background check on the DOJ Applicant Background Check Status page.
To check the status of your application, visit the DCA license search system.
Once your application is approved, your Guard Registration Number will appear in the system. This usually happens before your physical card arrives in the mail.
Stay Compliant After You Get Your Online Guard Card
Once you receive your guard card, you’ll need to complete 32 additional hours of training. This training can be done in-person or online through BSIS-approved courses and is divided into two phases:
- Within 30 days of getting your guard card or starting a security job, you must complete 16 hours of training. This includes two mandatory 4-hour courses.
- Within 6 months, you must complete the remaining 16 hours, including two more mandatory 4-hour courses.
Renewing your Online Guard Card
After you officially become a security guard in California, you must complete 8 hours of continuing education. This can include elective topics or refresher training, but it must meet BSIS standards.
You’ll also need to submit your renewal application before your guard card expires. California guard cards are valid for two years from the date of issuance.
Failing to meet training or renewal deadlines can result in a suspension of your license, which means you won’t be able to legally work as a security guard until it’s reinstated.
You can renew quickly and easily online through the BreEZe portal. There’s no need to create a new account for renewals. Just sign in, select the “Renew a License” option from the Quick Start Menu, and follow the steps from there.
FAQs
Find out more about obtaining your guard card and working as a security guard with these frequently asked questions:
How much does it cost to get a guard card?
Online guard card costs vary, but here’s a breakdown of the approximate costs:
- BSIS Initial Application Fee: $55
- Fingerprinting: ~ $74 – $99
- Mandatory training courses: ~ $100 (~ $20 for initial & ~ $80 for additional)
Estimated total: ~ $229 – $254
Do I need to carry my guard card with me on duty?
Yes, you must carry your physical guard card while working, as it serves as proof that you are a licensed security professional.
You’ll also need to carry a valid government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or state ID) with you while on duty. In most cases, your employer will also issue you a company badge with your photo for on-the-job identification.
Can I begin working before I receive my physical card?
In some cases, yes. If your name and guard registration number appear on the BSIS website, that usually means you’re cleared to work. However, we recommend speaking to your employer for confirmation.
Do I need a different license to become an armed security guard?
You don’t need a separate guard card to carry a firearm, but you do need to apply for an initial firearms permit through BSIS. This process involves submitting an application and completing a psychological assessment called the Sixteen Personality Factor Questionnaire (16PF).
Can I transfer my guard card to another state?
Not directly. Most states don’t accept out-of-state guard cards, but your completed training may count toward their requirements. You’ll still need to apply with that state’s licensing board.
Complete All Required and Ongoing Training with Our Approved Courses
You now have everything you need to apply for your online guard card.
Still, earning your guard card and finishing your initial training is only the beginning of your journey as a confident and capable guard.
Continue building your skills, expanding your knowledge, and preparing yourself for whatever the job brings by committing to ongoing professional development, rather than just meeting the minimum requirements.
At Guard Training, we offer a wide range of official courses designed to help you stay compliant, improve your proficiency, and move forward in your career.
Explore our full course catalog and take the next step in investing in your future as a security professional.
