What Security Guard Courses Should You Take in California in 2025? Your Ultimate Guide to BSIS Certification and Career Boosts

What Security Guard Courses Should You Take in California in 2025? Your Ultimate Guide to BSIS Certification and Career Boosts

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How To get a Security License

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.

What Is BSIS and Why Does It Matter?

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.

How to Get Your California Security Guard Card in 2025 & Additional Training Requirements.

Here’s how to get started:

  1. 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/

  2. 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

  3. Get Your Guard Card and begin working!: Obtain your BSIS Guard Card after completing the required training. Processing times may vary, so you could experience a wait before receiving your Guard Card in the mail.
  4. 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/

  5. 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/

Breaking Down California BSIS Security Guard Training: What You Need to Know in 2025

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:

1. Initial Security Officer Course (8 Hours)

Security

Kick off your security career with this mandatory foundational course. It includes:

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.

2. Continued Training (32 Hours)

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/

3. Annual Renewal/Refresher Course (8 Hours)

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.

Boost Your Career with Additional Certifications (Coming Soon!)

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.

Exclusive Job Placement Partnership with Guardally

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.

Why Choose NationalIPS?

  • 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


Start Your Security Career with NationalIPS Today!

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!

Contact Us For More Information:

Name: National Institute of Public Safety

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://nationalips.com/

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