Thinking about becoming an armed security officer in California? One of the most common questions future security professionals ask is how to become an armed security guard in California.
👉 “Do I need to get a Guard Card before I can apply for my BSIS Firearms Permit?”
The answer is YES.
Before you can carry a firearm or apply for your BSIS Firearms Permit, you must first earn your California Guard Card — the official security guard license required by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS).
Here’s a simple breakdown of what a California Guard Card is, how to become an armed guard, and how the National Institute of Public Safety (National IPS) can help you every step of the way.
What Is a California Guard Card?
A California Guard Card is your official license issued by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). It legally allows you to work as a security guard, loss prevention officer, or patrol officer anywhere in California.
To qualify, you must:
Complete BSIS-mandated training
Without a valid Guard Card, you cannot legally work as a security guard in California.
Visit the Official BSIS Guard Card Page
Before you can apply for your BSIS Firearms Permit and legally work as an armed security officer in California, you must first earn your California Guard Card. This is the foundation of your security career and a required first step set by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS).
All security professionals—armed or unarmed—start by completing the BSIS Guard Card Training.
This training ensures you understand your legal authority, responsibilities, and limits while on duty.
The initial 8-hour course includes two key subjects required by the state:
Powers to Arrest — Learn when and how you can lawfully detain or arrest someone while on duty.
Appropriate Use of Force — Understand how to respond safely and legally when situations escalate.
At the National Institute of Public Safety (National IPS), we make the process simple and flexible:
🛋️ Start from your couch: Complete half of the training online at your own pace.
👮♂️ Finish in person: Attend the second half of your course at one of our BSIS-approved locations in Santa Clarita or Los Angeles County.
📜 Get certified: Receive your BSIS-approved Certificate of Completion immediately after finishing your training.
Once you’ve completed this step, you’ll be ready to apply to BSIS for your official California Guard Card license—the first requirement toward earning your BSIS Firearms Permit.
START YOUR CALIFORNIA GUARD CARD TRAINING NOW:
➡️ Link to Initial Course (For New Guards) (Sign Up Here) 
: Enroll in the Hybrid (Half Online/Half In-Person) Initial Security officer Course
To qualify for your Guard Card, you’ll need to submit fingerprints (Live Scan) to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the FBI for a background check.
Once BSIS approves your application, you’ll receive your Guard Card number — officially allowing you to work as a licensed unarmed security guard in California.
Before becoming an armed guard, it’s a good idea to gain some real-world security experience. Many employers prefer that candidates have some background as an unarmed guard before carrying a firearm on duty.
This helps you build confidence, professionalism, and communication skills that make you a stronger candidate for armed positions later.
To move from unarmed to armed status, California law requires that you pass a psychological evaluation conducted by a licensed psychologist.
This exam ensures that you’re mentally and emotionally fit to carry a firearm while performing security duties.
You’ll need to complete this step before beginning firearms training or applying for your BSIS Firearms Permit.
Once you’ve passed your psychological evaluation, you can begin BSIS-approved Firearms Training and apply for your BSIS Firearms Permit.
To qualify, you must:
Be at least 21 years old
Hold a valid California Guard Card
Pass a psychological exam
Complete BSIS-certified firearms training (including range qualification)
Pass a written test and background check
When approved, you’ll officially be licensed as an armed security officer in California.
BSIS requires:
32 hours of continuing education for security guards within the first year
Twice-yearly range requalifications for armed guards
At National IPS, we make this easy with ongoing online and in-person refresher courses, so you stay compliant and confident in your role.
At National IPS, we make it easy to follow the state-required steps:
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!
Many students choose the National Institute of Public Safety (National IPS) for their California Guard Card Training because it’s a one-stop solution for BSIS-approved security education. Our online and hybrid programs make training simple, affordable, and accessible—whether you’re learning from home or attending in-person sessions in Los Angeles County. With state-approved, mobile-friendly courses, you can get your Guard Card license quickly and confidently, backed by professional support every step of the way.
BSIS-approved curriculum
All Unarmed BSIS Guard Card Courses
Self-paced and mobile accessible
Application Guide
Immediate downloadable certificate delivery
Affordable pricing & payment plans
Becoming an armed security officer in California starts with one essential step — earning your California Guard Card. It’s not just a legal requirement; it’s your foundation for a successful and compliant security career. Once you complete your BSIS-approved Guard Card training, pass your background check, and gain valuable experience, you’ll be ready to advance to armed guard status with confidence.
At the National Institute of Public Safety (National IPS), we make the process simple, flexible, and affordable. With our online and in-person Guard Card training, BSIS Firearms Permit courses, and train now, pay later options, you can start your journey toward becoming a licensed armed guard without delay.
Whether you’re in Los Angeles County, Santa Clarita, or anywhere in California, we’ll guide you step by step — from your first class to your final certification.
👉 Ready to begin?
Start your California Guard Card training today with National IPS and take the first step toward becoming a trusted, professional armed security officer in California.
Start Your California Guard Card Training Now with National IPS
Contact InformationName: 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. It 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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