Want to Become a Security Officer in your state?
Ready to launch or level up your security career in California? Whether you’re starting fresh or already have boots on the ground, understanding which BSIS courses to take for your California Guard Card training in 2025 is the key to unlocking new opportunities. From getting licensed to staying compliant and job-ready, this guide will walk you through every step.
At National Institute of Public Safety (NationalIPS), we provide BSIS-approved training designed to get you licensed, skilled, and hired — quickly and confidently.
The Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) is California’s regulatory agency overseeing security guards. BSIS sets the training standards and licensing requirements to ensure security officers work legally, ethically, and safely.
To work as a security guard in California, you must be BSIS-certified and hold a valid Guard Card issued by BSIS.
Here’s how to get started:
Complete the Initial 8-Hour Security Officer Course
Includes 4 hours online covering powers to arrest and 4 hours in-person on appropriate use of force — everything you need to learn before you apply.
(Click Here To Learn More): https://nationalips.com/courses/initial-security-officer-course-california/
Submit Your Application and Fingerprints to BSIS
This finalizes your Guard Card issuance. (Click Here To Learn More): https://www.bsis.ca.gov/licenses.shtml
Complete 32 Hours of Continued Training Within 6 Months
Choose from eight 4-hour BSIS-approved modules covering communication, liability, emergency response, and more. (Click Here To Learn More): https://nationalips.com/course-bundle/california-32-hour-security-officer-continuation-package/
Renew Annually With an 8-Hour Refresher Course
Stay compliant and up-to-date with the latest standards. (Click Here To Learn More): https://nationalips.com/courses/renewal-refresher-security-officer-course-california/
Explore Our Initial Guard Card Courses » https://nationalips.com/course/
If you’re starting or continuing your career as a California security officer, it’s essential to understand the required BSIS training courses. The Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) mandates these courses to ensure every guard is fully prepared and compliant. Here’s a clear breakdown:
Kick off your security career with this mandatory foundational course. It includes:
4 hours online covering the critical topic of Powers to Arrest
4 hours in-person focusing on Appropriate Use of Force — held conveniently in Los Angeles County and Santa Clarita (Click Here To Learn More): https://nationalips.com/courses/initial-security-officer-course-california/
This course must be completed before applying for your California Guard Card. As a licensed BSIS training provider (ID# ATG-2976), National Institute of Public Safety ensures you get state-approved, top-quality instruction.
Within your first six months of employment, you’re required to complete 32 hours of continued education to sharpen your security skills and knowledge. You can choose from eight BSIS-approved 4-hour courses covering vital areas such as:
Emergency Response
Communication Skills
Report Writing
And more!
These courses are offered 100% online for flexibility and can be taken individually or bundled to suit your schedule.
NOTE: A security guard registrant who is unable to provide their employing PPO the certificates of satisfactory completion of the security officer skills training shall complete 16 hours of the training within 30 days of the registrant’s employment date and shall complete the 16 remaining hours within six months of the registrant’s employment date.
(Click Here To Learn More): https://nationalips.com/course-bundle/california-32-hour-security-officer-continuation-package/
To keep your Guard Card active and stay current with evolving laws and best practices, you must complete an 8-hour refresher course every year. This fully online training reviews:
Latest legal updates
Use of force standards
Practical security skills to maintain peak performance
(Click Here To Learn More): https://nationalips.com/courses/renewal-refresher-security-officer-course-california/
All these courses are BSIS-mandated and designed to keep you compliant and competitive in the security industry. National Institute of Public Safety is your trusted partner in California, delivering expert training with the convenience and quality you deserve.
Want to rise above the competition? At NationalIPS, we’re preparing to offer expanded certifications to enhance your skills and job prospects:
Baton Training (8 Hours)
Pepper Spray Certification (4 Hours)
Firearms Training
These specialized courses are coming soon! When available, they will provide you with advanced knowledge and practical skills to handle high-risk situations confidently and legally.
Training is just the start. Through our exclusive partnership with Guardally, California’s premier security job board, NationalIPS graduates get direct access to:
Hundreds of active security job listings statewide
Connections with top employers looking for certified guards
Career resources, including resume tips and interview coaching
Opportunities to highlight certifications and stand out
Find your next job faster and easier at Guardally’s Job Board.
BSIS-approved curriculum that meets all California licensing requirements
Flexible online and in-person training options
Experienced instructors with real-world security expertise
Career support from training job board
Upcoming advanced certifications to future-proof your career
California’s security industry is growing fast in 2025. Don’t miss your chance to become a top-tier security professional with the best training and job connections.
👉 Browse our Security Guard Courses Now and take the first step!
Name: National Institute of Public Safety
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://nationalips.com/
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