California’s Bureau of Security & Investigative Services (BSIS) receives hundreds of security guard applications each month. Processing can take up to six weeks. To avoid delays, BSIS lists the most common reasons why security guard applications are rejected. Here are some. The Name On The Application Doesn’t Match Live Scan Information Your information is run through Live Scan, which checks for a criminal history from the FBI and DOJ. Make sure the name on your application matches what’s on your Live Scan form. To avoid any issues, BSIS recommends you use the name on your driver’s license ..read more

Security guard companies receive requests from clients for armed security guards. Armed guards provide a vital service in protecting people and property. The Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) issues firearm permits to qualified applicants. Firearm Permit Requirements. BSIS requires applicants to complete criminal history background checks through the FBI and California DOJ. Applicants must also successfully complete security guard classes and BSIS firearms training. Applicants then go through an assessment to determine whether they possess the proper judgment, restraint and ..read more

The initial steps for registering to be a security guard in California are relatively easy. It takes about 60 days from the time the application is submitted to processing completion. First Steps. Before registering to become a licensed security guard in California you must be fingerprinted and pass an FBI background check. You will then need to complete a basic eight-hour introductory “power to arrest” security guard course. Another 32 hours of training must be completed within six months of registration. An additional eight hours of continuing education courses are required annually. Traini ..read more

The need for security guards is increasing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are over 1.1 million security guards in the U.S. California leads the way with 166,660 guards. As commercial and residential crimes increase, expect growth in the security services sector to continue. Where Security Guards Work. Industries employing the most security guards include hospital/medical, education, hotel/hospitality and retail. The Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim and San Francisco-Oakland-Haywood metropolitan areas have the most guard jobs in California. For those who are considering ..read more

A key component of security guard training is learning how to respond during an emergency. Whether the emergency is created by an earthquake, flood other natural disaster or the result of human activity, Being Prepared For The Worst. California’s Bureau of Security Investigative Services training guidelines include emergency response training for individuals seeking to become licensed security guards. The training involves: Emergency Procedures Related to Life/Safety and Acts of Nature Evacuations Routes Power Outages Acting as Points of Contact This training is critical. It often takes time ..read more

Being a security guard requires lots of skills—both physical and mental. While much of a guard’s work is routine, there are times when split-second decisions must be made. In these cases, guards are called to step in to protect people or property. When Guards Become Heroes. Guards are placed in situations where there is a concern that inappropriate or illegal activity could take place. Whether it’s a nightclub, parking structure, music festival or shopping mall, it falls on security guards to keep people and property safe. Prevention is key, but when poor behavior occurs, guards are trained to ..read more

Security guards are in demand. Entry-level security guard positions are available for newly licensed guards. Getting Licensed. In California, individuals with a high school diploma or equivalent and who pass FBI and Department of Justice background checks can become security guards after completing a state-certified eight-hour training course. Once completed, the state issues the individual a Guard Card. Those with a Guard Card can begin working for a security guard company at an entry-level capacity. Further Training. Once hired, guards must complete another 32 hours of online training within ..read more

  With the recent violence in California and around the country, security guards are needed now more than ever. Guards are on the frontline preventing criminal activity and saving the lives of those they are assigned to protect. The Right Stuff. Not everyone has the right temperament and physical ability to be a security guard. Guards need to remain calm under pressure and have the communication skills to de-escalate a volatile situation. If an emergency occurs, they must think clearly and lead. Plus, they need to be able to interact with the public professionally. Physical ability is als ..read more

When crime increases, businesses feel vulnerable. That’s when business owners seek security solutions including the addition of security guards to keep their employees and customers safe. This demand is triggering an increased need for more trained security guards. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were over 140,000 security guards in California in 2021—the largest number for any state. California is in the top tier when it comes to security guard wages. Guards are assigned to all types of security details—malls and stores, casinos, medical centers, manufacturing plants ..read more

Individuals interested in becoming security guards in California must first take courses from California’s Bureau of Security, Investigative Services (BSIS). These security guard courses can be completed online at your own pace. Once you complete the initial 8 hours of training, pass background checks and are fingerprinted, you can apply for a Guard Card. This card allows you to begin limited work at a California security guard company. To apply for a Guard Card, create a login and go to the application here: https://www.breeze.ca.gov/datamart/loginCADCA.do. For a YouTube video on how to fill ..read more