If you want to become a licensed security guard in California, the first step is completing your BSIS Guard Card Training with an Approved California Guard Card Training Provider. But with so many websites and ads promising “cheap guard card classes,” how do you know who’s real and who’s running a scam?
This guide walks you through how to verify a school’s legitimacy, spot fake providers, and why the National Institute of Public Safety (National IPS) is one of the most trusted names in California security training.
The California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) regulates all Guard Card training. Only BSIS-approved schools can legally issue certificates that allow you to apply for your Guard Card.
If you train with a provider who is not approved, your certificate is worthless—and you’ll have wasted both time and money.
Every approved training provider has a BSIS-issued license. These are the numbers you should look for:
ATG-#### → Approved Guard Card Training Instructor/Provider
TFF-#### → Firearms Training Facility
TFB-#### → Training For Baton
👉 Example: National Institute of Public Safety is an Approved California Guard Card Training Provider under BSIS License #ATG-2976.
If a provider refuses to give you their license number, that’s a red flag.
Go to the official BSIS “Verify a License” portal on the California Department of Consumer Affairs website. Enter the license number (e.g., ATG-2976) and confirm:
The license is active
The name matches the training provider
There are no disciplinary actions
This is the fastest way to separate legitimate schools from fakes.
You Can Verify A BSIS California Guard Card Training License in the Government Database Here
BSIS regulations require that the Initial 8-hour Guard Card Certification Course—which includes Powers to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force—be taught at least 50% in person.
Here’s what that looks like:
Part 1 (Online) → Powers to Arrest
Part 2 (In-Person) →Appropriate Use of Force
⚠️ If a provider claims the entire 8-hour Initial Guard Card Certification Course can be completed 100% online, they are not compliant with BSIS law and your training will not be valid. Always make sure your provider schedules the in-person Appropriate Use of Force session.
👉 You can read the official BSIS update on training format requirements here.
These Cheap Courses are bait-and-switch scams. BSIS actually requires at least 8 hours of training with 50% in-person instruction, and it has received numerous complaints about these fake courses; protect your future and learn more in our blog Here and view the Official Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) Warning Here.
Search Google, Trustpilot, or Yelp. Look for:
Consistent, dated reviews
Clear details about course quality
Professional responses from the school
Fake schools often have no reviews or just one-liners that look suspicious.
One of the simplest ways to verify a provider is to call them directly. A legitimate training school will answer during business hours and provide clear information about class schedules, pricing, and support.
When you call, make sure to:
→ Ask if they are an Approved California Guard Card Training Provider
→ Request their BSIS license number
→ Confirm they follow the correct course format (first 8 hours must be 50% in-person)
⚠️ Be cautious if the number always goes to voicemail, sounds like a personal cell phone, or the provider avoids answering questions about licensing.
📞 You can call the National Institute of Public Safety directly at (302)-556-7446. One of our BSIS Guard Card Advisors will gladly assist you and answer all your questions.
If you’re still not certain about a training provider, you can always confirm directly with the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS).
BSIS Contact Information:
→ Phone: (916) 322-4000
→ Toll-Free: (800) 952-5210
→ Email: bsis@dca.ca.gov
The BSIS team can verify whether a school or instructor is authorized, and they can also answer questions about Guard Card applications, license status, and training requirements.
California requires 40 hours of BSIS Guard Card training to become a licensed security guard. National IPS offers all state-approved courses—online and in-person—so you can get certified affordably and on your schedule.
At National IPS, we provide all BSIS-required training, from your initial Guard Card to advanced certifications:
Covers Powers to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force
Complete these steps before you apply for your Guard Card.”
Available online or in-person in Los Angeles County
🔗 Link to Initial Course (For New Guards) (Sign Up Here) 
: Enroll in the Hybrid (Half Online/Half In-Person) Initial Security officer Course
California requires 32 hours of training within your first 6 months on the job
Includes 16 hours mandatory + 16 hours elective topics
Flexible scheduling to fit around work and life
🔗 Link to 32- Hour Bundle (Within first 6 Months) (Sign Up Here) : Enroll in the Fully Online 32-Hour Security officer Course Bundle
)Complete all required Guard Card courses in one package
Save $120 off the full course price
Ideal for students who want to get everything done quickly and affordably
🔗 Link to the 40- Hour Bundle (Includes both the 8-Hour Initial Guard Guard Course + The 32-Hour Continued Guard Card Training Bundle) (Sign Up Here) : Enroll in the FULL 40-Hour Security officer Course Bundle
Required by BSIS to maintain your Guard Card
Keeps you sharp, compliant, and updated on the latest laws and security practices
Available online for maximum convenience
🔗Link to Refresher/Renewal Course (Annually) (Sign Up Here) :Enroll in the Fully Online 8-Hour Refresher/Renewal Security Officer Course
Learn More About What Courses Are Required Here
Your future in security starts today. With National IPS California Guard Card Training Online, you can train now, pay later, and launch your career faster than ever.
Kickstart your journey to becoming a certified security officer or reinstate your California Guard Card with National IPS California Guard Card Training — online and ready when you are! Get certified quickly and conveniently, Reinstate your California Guard Card and take the first step toward building a stable, rewarding career in public safety
How to enroll:
Visit Our California Security Officer Course Page Here
Select “Train Now, Pay Later Partner AFFIRM, KLARNA, or AFTERPAY” at checkout
Start your training immediately and earn your California Guard Card!
Your future in security begins today—enroll now and take control of your career!
Remember to:
Always check for a BSIS license number (like ATG-2976)
Verify it through the BSIS website
Confirm the first 8 hours include at least 50% in-person instruction
Avoid suspiciously cheap training offers
Choose a provider with real reviews, application support, and flexible payment options
The National Institute of Public Safety (National IPS) is your one-stop solution for BSIS California Guard Card training. Their online and hybrid programs provide state-approved, mobile-friendly training that helps you get licensed quickly and affordably.
BSIS-approved curriculum
All Unarmed BSIS Guard Card Courses
Self-paced and mobile accessible
Application Guide
Immediate downloadable certificate delivery
Affordable pricing & payment plans
Start Your California Guard Card Training Now with National IPS
When you train with us, you’re not just another student—you’re preparing for a real career in the security industry with a provider who is officially approved and fully compliant with BSIS regulations.
Name: National Institute of Public Safety
📞Call or Text Us at: (302)-556-7446
📧 Email: Contact@NationalIPS.com
🌐 Website: https://nationalips.com/
National IPS and BSIS provide all the tools and courses you need to get back to work quickly. These resources help you learn how to reactivate a suspended guard card.
8-Hour Initial CA BSIS Security Officer Certification Course (California)
8-Hour Renewal/Refresher Security Officer Certification Course
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Always follow state regulations and consult official BSIS resources for compliance.
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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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