What are the requirements for registering as a security guard? The general requirements are as follows:
- You must be at least 18 years old,
- You must undergo a criminal background check through the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and
- You must complete a 40-hour course of required training.
40-Hour Security Guard Training Requirement
| Date of Completion | Training Hours Needed |
|---|---|
| Prior to being assigned on post | 8 hours |
| Required within 30 days of guard card approval | 16 hours |
| Required within 6 months of guard card approval | 16 hours |
| TOTAL TRAINING | 40 Hours |
No. BSIS does not require a drug test in order to apply for a guard card.
In addition to the cost of your security training classes, you’ll need to pay for Livescan fingerprinting ($49 + variable “rolling” service fee) and BSIS application processing ($55 for mail-in or online).
BSIS usually processes new applications within 30-60 days, but it can be as few as 3-5 days if your information is correct and you have a clean background. While you wait for your actual guard card to arrive in the mail, your name will show up on the BSIS website so employers can verify your security guard registration.
Yes. You can contact BSIS at (916) 322-4000.
Registration is valid for two years and expires the day after the expiration date on your card. There’s a 60-day grace period during which you can pay a delinquent fee to reinstate your registration. After 60 days, if you haven’t renewed, you must reapply as a new applicant.
You must submit a renewal application/letter of request and fees for renewal. Mail the request to:
Bureau of Security and Investigative Services
P.O. Box 989002
West Sacramento, CA 95798-9002
Application and renewal fees should be submitted to BSIS at least 60-90 days before the expiration date of your card. You need to submit your request as soon as possible so BSIS has time to process it and get your renewed registration back to you. You can keep working for up to 90 days.
You can request a duplicate registration by submitting a written request that explains your situation, along with a $25 fee, to BSIS. It usually takes six to eight weeks to get a replacement.
Yes. You must notify BSIS in writing within 30 days of an address change. Be sure to print or type the following information:
- Your security guard registration number,
- Your name,
- Your previous address,
- Your new address,
- Your date of birth, and
- Your social security number.
No. A guard registration authorizes you to work as a security guard for any private patrol operator or in-house employer.
Yes, as long as you’re an employee on payroll with the proper payroll deductions being made.
No. In order to get the Bureau’s registration/permit, you have to complete the Bureau’s training.
No. There are no exceptions to the age requirement.
Crimes of violence and felonies automatically disqualify you from applying to be a security guard in the State of California. For all others, the State considers the circumstances surrounding your conviction and evidence of rehabilitation. Just fill out the BSIS application completely and truthfully.
Yes. You must report the conviction.
You can submit a new application one year from the date of denial.
Yes, if they’re licensed or delegated by a licensed authority to do so.