It happens to the best of us—you glance at your Guard Card and suddenly realize it has expired! Maybe you took a break from security work, or life just got busy. Either way, there’s no need to panic. Your security career isn’t over! In fact, regaining a California Guard Card is easier than you might think (and way less stressful than trying to reset a Netflix password).
This guide will walk you through the steps on how to renew or replace your California Guard Card, explain which BSIS-approved courses are required, and how The National Institute of Public Safety (National IPS) makes the process fast, affordable, and stress-free.
The Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) regulates all security guard licenses in California. BSIS has different rules depending on how long your Guard Card has been expired. If it’s been less than 60 days, renewal is simpler and may not require restarting. For Guard Cards expired more than 60 days, a new application and full training are required to get back in compliance. let’s Break Down How It Works:
Good news—you’re still in the safe zone! You can renew without starting over. Here’s what to do:
First, Complete the 8 Hours of Security Officer Renewal/Refresher Training
Next, Submit your renewal online via the BSIS BreEZe Portal or by mail using the BSIS Renewal Application PDF
finally, Pay the $40 renewal fee plus a $25 late fee
Still need to complete the 8-Hour BSIS Approved Renewal/Refresher Security Officer Training? No worries! You can complete the BSIS-approved course right here: Sign Up Now Here
Don’t worry—but you’ll need to start fresh as a new applicant:
First, Complete the 8-hour Initial Guard Card Training (Powers to Arrest + Appropriate Use of Force)
Next, Submit Live Scan fingerprinting
Finally, Pay the BSIS application fee
Missed the 60-day window? National IPS provides all the courses and guidance you need!
Still need to complete the 8-Hour BSIS Approved CA Initial Security Officer Training? Get started here: Sign Up Now Here
Once you know which renewal path applies to you, the next step is completing the required training. At National IPS, all BSIS-approved courses are designed to get you back on duty quickly and confidently. With flexible options—online, hybrid, or in-person—completing your training is simple, convenient, and stress-free, so you can focus on sharpening your skills rather than worrying about logistics. Let’s Break Down The Training required:
The following course must be completed:
8 Hours of BSIS Approved Security officer Renewal/Refresher Training– Must be completed annually for renewal
The following course must be completed:
8-Hour Initial Security Guard Training (Hybrid: Half online, half in-person)
Powers to Arrest
Appropriate Use of Force
Important Note: BSIS regulations now require at least 50% of the Powers to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force training to be conducted in person.
Once the required BSIS training is completed, make sure to:
Submit Live Scan fingerprinting for BSIS background clearance
Complete the BSIS application and pay fees
Once everything is completed, your Guard Card will be fully valid, and you’ll be officially authorized and ready to start work!
If your Guard Card has been expired for more than 60 days, or if you’re entering the security field for the first time, don’t worry—getting licensed is straightforward.
Follow these steps to complete all required training, submit your application, and get fully cleared to start working in California security.
Complete the 8-Hour Initial Guard Card Training – Covers Powers to Arrest (online) and Appropriate Use of Force (hybrid: half online, half in-person)
Take 16 Hours of Mandatory Courses – Complete within the first 30 days
Complete 16 Hours of Elective Courses – Complete within the first six months
Live Scan Fingerprinting & BSIS Application – Submit and pay to activate your Guard Card
Quick Checklist:
8-Hour Initial Guard Card Training
16 Hours Mandatory Courses
16 Hours Elective Courses
Submit BSIS Application & Pay Fees
Live Scan Fingerprinting
Whether your California Guard Card expired yesterday or more than 60 days ago, getting back into compliance doesn’t have to be confusing or stressful. The steps may seem overwhelming at first, but with the right guidance, the process becomes straightforward and manageable.
With our BSIS-approved training programs, step-by-step support for Live Scan fingerprinting, and assistance in submitting your BSIS application, we can help you navigate every requirement efficiently so you can return to work without unnecessary delays.
Our team is here to provide clarity and guidance throughout the entire process. From understanding which courses apply to your situation to helping you complete paperwork correctly, we make sure you never feel lost or unsure of what to do next. If questions arise at any point, we’re ready to walk you through each step and ensure you fully understand the renewal or replacement process, giving you confidence as you get back on duty quickly and safely.
National IPS is a BSIS-approved training school (License # ATG-2976) dedicated to making the process simple, fast, and affordable.
Courses Offered:
✔ 8-Hour Initial Guard Card Training – For new applicants or expired > 60 days
✔ 32-Hour Continued Education Bundle – Must be completed within the first 6 months of Guard Card registration
✔ 8-Hour Annual Renewal Course – For on-time or late renewals
Flexible Training Formats:
100% Online for convenience
Hybrid (Online + In-Person) for BSIS-required sessions
In-Person Skills Training at College of the Canyons University Center, Santa Clarita, CA
National IPS offers expert guidance every step of the way, helping students complete training quickly, efficiently, and with confidence.
National IPS and BSIS provide all the tools and courses you need to get back to work quickly and stay compliant.
8-Hour Initial CA BSIS Security Officer Certification Course (California)
8-Hour Renewal/Refresher Security Officer Certification Course
Whether your California Guard Card expired yesterday or over a year ago, National IPS provides all the courses, resources, and guidance you need to get back to work quickly and confidently. Don’t let an expired license put your security career on hold—take action now to regain compliance and secure your future.
Have questions or need help renewing your California Guard Card? We’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact Us Today:
Phone: (302) 556-7446
Email: Contact@nationalips.com
Website: www.nationalips.com
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The National Institute of Public Safety is a licensed, nationwide provider of state-approved training for security officers and public safety professionals. We offer accessible, high-quality education through online, hybrid, and in-person programs that meet licensing, recertification, and career development requirements. Our mission is to prepare individuals and organizations to protect and serve their communities with integrity and professionalism.
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