Thousands of businesses across California depend on licensed security guards to maintain order by protecting property, personnel, and the public. From office buildings and retail stores to schools and event venues, being a security guard in CA is a career that is always in demand and easier to start than you might think.
In order to become a registered security guard in the state of California, you must first get your official guard card issued by the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). This guide covers everything you need to know about the California guard card process, including training requirements, state regulations, and how to apply. Whether you are entering the workforce or switching careers, this guide will help you take the next step with confidence.
What is a guard card and why do I need one?
A guard card is a state-issued license that certifies you’ve undergone the necessary training to become a security guard in your state. Each state that issues guard cards has different requirements for training and application. To begin your career as a security guard in California, you must complete the state requirements for obtaining a California guard card.
California guard card requirements: who can be a security guard?
To be eligible for a California guard card and work as a registered security guard in the state, you must meet all of the following requirements. These are set by law and have no exceptions:
- You must be at least 18 years old. This is the minimum age required to receive your California guard card and become a licensed security guard.
- You must pass a criminal background check. This includes fingerprinting and review by both the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
- You must complete 40 hours of state-approved security guard training. This training is required by the BSIS and must be completed through a licensed provider.
Once you meet these three mandatory requirements, you can obtain your guard card.
What disqualifies you from being a security guard?
In California, certain criminal convictions can disqualify you from getting a guard card and working as a security guard. These convictions are revealed during the required background check, which is conducted by the California DOJ and the FBI.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Felony convictions and violent crimes are automatic disqualifiers, which include offenses like assault with a deadly weapon, robbery, or serious drug-related crimes.
- Other convictions, such as non-violent misdemeanors, do not always lead to disqualification. These are reviewed by the BSIS on a case-by-case basis, considering factors like the type of offense, how long ago it occurred, and whether you have completed any rehabilitation or probation requirements.
If you are unsure whether your record will affect your eligibility, it’s best to complete the background check and let BSIS make the official determination. Applicants with older or minor offenses are often still eligible after review.
How to become a security guard in California
Becoming a security guard in California is a fairly simple and straightforward process. The process consists of four steps: 8 hours of pre-licensing training, application for the guard card, and 32 additional hours of post-application training.
Step 1: Complete 8-hour “Power to Arrest” training
Before you can apply for a guard card, you must complete 8 hours of pre-licensing training that prepares you for entry-level security work. This classroom training must be in person and completed through a BSIS-certified training provider.
Step 2: Submit fingerprints and pass background check
As part of the licensing process, you must complete a Live Scan fingerprinting, which sends your information to both the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the FBI. The background check is used to confirm that you meet the legal requirements to work as a security guard in the state. You cannot receive your guard card without passing this check.
Step 3: Apply for your guard card through BSIS
Once the first 8 hours of training are complete, you can submit your guard card application to BSIS. If approved, you can immediately begin working as a security guard while you finish the rest of your training.
Step 4: Finish remaining 32 hours of additional training within 6 months
After your guard card is issued, BSIS requires that you complete 32 more hours of online or in-person training. Sixteen of those hours must be completed within the first 30 days of employment, and the remaining sixteen must be completed within six months. Failing to meet this deadline could result in losing your guard card and being disqualified from working as a security guard.
How long does security guard training take in California?
To become a licensed security guard in California, you must complete a total of 40 hours of training. However, only 8 hours of classroom training are required before you can submit your guard card application and be hired as a security guard. So, you can begin working as a security guard while completing the remaining 32 hours of online training.
Here’s the timeline:
- Step 1: Complete 8 hours of classroom training (includes "Power to Arrest" and related topics). This is the minimum required to apply for your guard card and start working.
- Step 2: Complete an additional 16 hours of training within your first 30 days on the job.
- Step 3: Finish the final 16 hours of training within six months of starting work.
This flexible training schedule allows you to start working quickly while finishing your certification on the job.
What does CA guard card training include?
After you receive your guard card, you are required to complete 32 additional hours of in-person or online training. This training is divided into two phases, each including 16 hours split between BSIS-approved mandatory and elective courses.
CA guard card mandatory training topics cover key security areas, including:
- Observation and Documentation
- Communication and its Significance
- Liability and Legal Aspects
- Public Relations
CA guard card elective training includes additional industry-related security topics that help security guards handle different workplace situations more effectively.
Can I be an armed security guard with a California guard card?
You need both a guard card and a BSIS firearm permit to be an armed guard in California. If the security guard position you are applying for requires you to carry a firearm, you must first obtain your guard card and be licensed as an unarmed security guard. Once you have your guard card, you can pursue the additional training necessary to obtain a firearm permit and become an armed security guard.
To qualify for a BSIS Firearm Permit, you must complete 14 hours of Bureau-approved firearm training, which includes 8 hours of classroom instruction and 6 hours of range training. After successfully completing the training, you can apply for a BSIS firearm permit, which allows you to carry a firearm while on duty. The permit is valid for two years, but you are required to requalify once per year at a certified range to keep it active.
How much does it cost to become a security guard in California?
You’ll be expected to pay $55 for the BSIS guard card application and $49 (+ additional fees) for fingerprinting services. You’ll also need to pay for your security guard training courses and 8 additional hours of training a year, which will vary in cost depending on where you go.
How much can you make as a security guard in California?
Your salary as a security guard in California depends on your experience, position, and whether you are licensed to carry a firearm. As of June 2025, here are the average salary ranges:
- Unarmed Security Guards: Average salary is $39k per year. Entry-level positions start around $31k, while experienced guards can earn up to $48k.
- Armed Security Guards: Average salary is $55k per year. Entry-level positions start around $43k, while top earners can make up to $70k.
With the right training and experience, security guard positions in California can offer stable income and room for growth, especially for those who pursue advanced roles or armed certification.
View our complete Security Guard salary guide →
Where to get California guard card training
NITA is an approved BSIS Training School License #ATG 2939 to provide 32 hours of BSIS-required training online for your convenience. Learn everything you need to know about crowd control, public relations, liability and legal issues, fire safety, incident scene control, and more. Our courses will help you quickly meet all the training requirements needed to become a security guard in California, so you can start your new career right away.
View all NITA California Security Guard Card Courses →
Start your security guard career path today
Ready to start your new career as a security guard in California? Choose NITA as your trusted partner and receive the necessary training supported by a world-class team of instructors, become part of a community of other security professionals, and find your new dream job. We’re ready to help you succeed.
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