Free Guide to California Security Guard Card Requirements

Overview of California Security Guard Cards

A California Security Guard Card is an official identification document issued by the Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Security and Investigative Services. This card shows that a person has met the state's requirements to work as a security guard in California. The card is sometimes called a guard registration or security guard license, though "card" is the most common term used by the industry and state officials.

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California requires most people who work as security guards to carry this card while on duty. The card displays the person's name, photograph, registration number, and expiration date. It serves as proof that the person has completed the necessary training, background checks, and other requirements set by the state. Without a valid card, a person cannot legally work as a security guard in California.

The security guard profession includes people who work in many different settings. They might protect retail stores, office buildings, warehouses, events, hospitals, or residential properties. Some security guards work for large companies that employ hundreds of guards. Others work for small local firms. Some are self-employed. Regardless of the size of their employer or the type of location they protect, most must have a current California Security Guard Card.

The card itself is valid for two years from the date of issue. The state uses this two-year cycle to ensure that guards maintain their training and stay current with California's security laws. A person whose card is about to expire will need to complete renewal steps before the expiration date to continue working legally.

Practical takeaway: If you currently work as a security guard in California or are considering this career, understand that the Security Guard Card is not optional—it is a legal requirement for most positions. Keep your card with you during all work hours, and track when it will expire so you can plan for renewal well in advance.

Core Requirements to Obtain a Security Guard Card

California has several core requirements that a person must meet before receiving a Security Guard Card. These requirements exist to protect the public and ensure that security guards are trustworthy and trained. The state has set these rules through the Private Security Services Act, which is found in the California Business and Professions Code.

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The first requirement is age. You must be at least 18 years old to register as a security guard in California. This is a hard minimum set by state law. There is no exception to this rule, even if you have security experience from another state or country. Your age is verified through a government-issued photo ID when you submit your registration.

The second requirement is citizenship or legal residency. You must be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident of the United States. You must provide proof of this status when you register. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, a permanent resident card (green card), or a valid work visa in certain cases. This requirement is checked against federal immigration databases.

The third requirement involves your background. California requires a thorough background investigation before you can receive a card. This investigation looks at your criminal history, both in California and outside the state. The state will check state and federal criminal records. They will also check for any history of drug convictions or crimes involving dishonesty. Having a criminal record does not automatically bar you from becoming a security guard, but certain serious crimes or recent convictions may prevent you from registering. The exact rules depend on the nature and timing of the offense.

The fourth requirement is that you must not be subject to a restraining order, protective order, or similar court order that would prevent you from carrying a firearm or working as a security guard. This requirement exists because some security guards may need to carry weapons as part of their duties, and courts use protective orders to prevent certain people from possessing weapons.

The fifth requirement is fingerprinting. You must submit to a fingerprint background check through the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This is part of the background investigation process. You will go to an authorized fingerprinting location, have your fingerprints taken, and pay a fee for the background check. The results are sent to the state and reviewed before your card is issued.

Practical takeaway: Before investing time and money in pursuing a Security Guard Card, honestly assess whether you meet these five core requirements. If you have questions about a past criminal record or legal issue, consider consulting with the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services directly, as they can provide specific guidance about your situation.

Training and Testing Requirements

Beyond background requirements, California law requires all security guards to complete specific training. This training is designed to teach security guards about the laws they must follow, the limits of their authority, how to interact with the public safely, and other important skills for the job.

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The state requires that security guards complete at least 40 hours of classroom training before they can receive a Security Guard Card. This training must cover specific topics outlined by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services. The topics include California law related to security work, the powers and limitations of security guards, how to handle emergency situations, customer service, and legal liability. Some training programs cover additional topics as well, such as CPR certification, first aid, or conflict de-escalation.

The 40 hours of training must be completed through an instructor who is approved by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services. Not all security training programs are approved by the state. You should verify that any training program you consider is on the state's list of approved providers. The Bureau maintains a current list on its website. Training can be completed either in person or through distance learning, depending on the provider's approval. Most training programs take two to five days to complete, depending on whether they are full-time or part-time courses.

After completing the 40 hours of training, you must pass a test. The test is called the Security Guard Examination. It covers the material taught in the 40-hour course and tests your understanding of California security law and guard responsibilities. The test consists of 50 multiple-choice questions. You must answer at least 30 questions correctly to pass, which is a score of 60 percent. If you do not pass on your first try, you may retake the test. Most people pass the test on their first or second attempt if they paid attention during the training.

Some security guards take additional training beyond the state minimum. For example, armed security guards—those who carry weapons—must complete additional firearms training and pass a separate firearms examination. This training goes beyond the basic 40 hours. Guards working in hospitals, schools, or other specialized settings may also complete additional training relevant to those environments. This extra training can improve job prospects and earnings.

Practical takeaway: Budget several hundred dollars and at least one week for the required 40-hour training course and examination. Research approved training providers in your area and read reviews from people who have taken their courses. Choose a provider whose class schedule fits your current work and personal commitments, as you will need to focus on learning the material to pass the state examination.

The Application and Registration Process

Once you have completed the required training and passed the Security Guard Examination, you can submit your registration materials to the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services. This process involves gathering several documents, completing forms, and paying fees. The entire process typically takes four to six weeks from the time you submit your materials until you receive your card in the mail.

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The first step is to gather the required documents. You will need your Social Security number, your date of birth, and a government-issued photo ID. You will need the name and address of your employer, if you have one. You will need the results of your fingerprint background check from the Department of Justice and FBI. You will need your passing test score from the Security Guard Examination. You will need proof of your citizenship or legal residency status. You will need proof that you have completed the 40-hour training course. Your training provider will give you a certificate or completion record once you finish the course.

The second step is to fill out the official registration form. The Bureau of Security and Investigative Services provides this form, which is called the Application for Security Guard Registration. You can get this form from the Bureau's website or by calling their office. The form asks for basic personal information, employment information, your training and test information, and your background. You must sign and date the form. Any form that is incomplete or unsigned will be rejected and sent back to you, which delays the process.

The third step is to pay the registration fee. As of the information available in recent years, the fee is $150 for a two-year registration. This fee must be paid by check, money order, or credit card, depending on the method of submission. If you submit by mail, you must include a check or money order. If you submit online or in person, you