Starting your security career in California begins with getting a BSIS-approved Guard Card. But beware — the internet is filled with misleading ads offering $13.99–$19.99 Guard Card training. These programs look tempting, but they are not BSIS-approved and can leave you with rejected applications, wasted money, and no legal certification.
At the National Institute of Public Safety (National IPS), we’ve seen hundreds of students burned by these scams. That’s why we’re sharing exactly how to spot fake Guard Card training and why our BSIS-approved 40-hour Guard Card package is the best value in California.
Many websites falsely claim you can finish your Guard Card training entirely online in just a few hours. According to the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS), this is not true:
The first Guard Card course must be at least 8 hours long.
It must include Powers to Arrest (online) and Appropriate Use of Force (in-person).
At least 50% of the training must be done in person.
Both courses must be taken from the same BSIS-approved provider to be valid.
Any provider advertising a fast, cheap, 100% online course is not following state law.
One of the most common scams in the California Guard Card security training world is the “lure & split” tactic. Here’s how it works:
Lure: A training site advertises a $13.99–$19.99 “5-Hour Powers to Arrest” course and claims it’s all you need to get your Guard Card.
Split: After you pay, they reveal you still need to purchase the in-person Appropriate Use of Force training from another provider — at a much higher cost.
More on the “Split Course” Tactic
Some providers sell only the Powers to Arrest section cheap, hoping you’ll pay extra later for the rest. BSIS specifically states the two required courses must come from the same provider the BSIS Has Received Numerous Complaints About This “Split Tactic”. So, taking a partial class elsewhere can invalidate your training. You can read more about this Invalid split tactic on the official Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) Warning Here
This tactic violates BSIS requirements and misleads students into believing they’re getting a full state-approved course.
BSIS requires both courses from the same provider. If you split between two companies, you risk invalidating your training hours.
You lose time and money. You’ll either have to pay a second provider or re-take the entire course from a compliant school.
Complaints are rising. BSIS has received numerous complaints about these bait-and-switch practices.
Every year, hundreds of students in California lose money to fake Guard Card schools that are not BSIS-approved. These providers advertise cheap training online, but their courses are not legally recognized. Here are the most common red flags you should watch for when choosing a Guard Card provider.
Key warning signs include:
Every legitimate California Guard Card training provider must have a valid BSIS license number.
When reviewing a school, make sure they clearly list one of these official BSIS-approved license types:
ATG – Approved Trainer Guard (required for Guard Card training)
TFF – Training Facility Firearm (for firearm permits)
TFB – Training Facility Baton (for baton permits)
If a provider doesn’t list a license number — or refuses to show proof — they are not legally authorized to issue Guard Card training in California.
Always double-check the license on the official BSIS website: DCA License Search.
Claims of “Instant approval” or “same-day Guard Card.”
Unrealistically cheap prices (like $13.99 California Guard Card) Courses.
No mention of in-person training or the 8-Hour Powers to Arrest & Appropriate Use of Force Course.
Vague business address and fake reviews.
If you see any of these red flags, walk away.
Also Read: How To Spot Fake BSIS Security Officer School Scams in California (2025).
At National IPS, we provide full, BSIS-approved Guard Card training with no shortcuts, no hidden fees, and no scams. Our program is trusted by thousands of students across California who want a secure start to their security career.
BSIS License ATG-2976 (verify us anytime on the BSIS License Portal).
We include both Powers to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force training in one package.
We comply with all BSIS in-person training requirements.
We never use “lure & split” tactics or hidden fees.
View Our BSIS-Approved Guard Card Training provider License here
Full 40-Hour BSIS Security Officer Course – California
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
Our 40-hour Full BSIS Security Officer Course combines:
Self-paced online learning for theory and fundamentals
Hands-on in-person training for practical experience located in LA County.
This hybrid approach lets you balance your busy schedule while completing all BSIS-required training efficiently.
Explore our full California BSIS Security Officer Course Catalog and get started on your security career today:
View & Enroll in All BSIS California Guard Card Courses Here
Even without naming competitors, here’s why we stand out:
Affordable Pricing: Pay just $189 or as low as $18 a Month for the complete 40-hour BSIS course—significantly less than most other providers in California.
Flexible Payments
Start training today and pay over time using Affirm or other Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) providers.
Worry-Free Guarantee
Try the course for 72 hours. If you aren’t completely satisfied (and haven’t completed all the lessons), we’ll issue a full refund—no questions asked. Terms Apply
Positive Student Reviews
Many Graduates Praise National IPS for affordable, high-value training and supportive instructors.
Affordable + Flexible + BSIS-Licensed and Approved
Combine cost-effectiveness, flexible payments, and state-approved training, and you get the best-value California Guard Card program.
Ready to get certified? Check out the official BSIS Guard Fact Sheet or start your training today here:
Enroll in the 40-Hour Full BSIS Security Officer Course Today!
Follow these simple steps to get started with one of California’s most affordable and best-value Guard Card training programs:
1: Visit the National IPS Guard Card Training Website
Go to our California Guard Card training page Here to explore the full 40-hour BSIS Guard Card Course Bundle and learn more about our program.
2: Enroll Online via our LMS
Complete your course registration easily through our Luxury LMS platform, which manages your online learning and tracks your progress for the full 40-hour training.
3: Choose Flexible Payment Options
Use Stripe with your credit or debit card, or select Affirm for buy now, pay later monthly payment plans. Start training for as low as $18/month!
4: Your Worry-Free Guarantee
Access the course with confidence. If you haven’t completed all lessons or aren’t 100% satisfied within 72 hours, we will issue a full refund—no questions asked (terms apply).
6: Start Your Security Career with Confidence
Once enrolled, begin your online modules at your own pace, complete your hands-on in-person training, and earn your California Guard Card to launch your career in security.
Phone: (302) 556-7446
Email: Contact@nationalips.com
Website: www.nationalips.com
For More Information on What a California Guard Card is and How to Get One Fast You Can View Our Blog: Here
National IPS is not affiliated, sponsored, or endorsed by any college or university we may use for training facilities. We solely utilize facilities for conducting our BSIS-approved 40-hour California Guard Card training courses.
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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