Can You Complete Security Guard Training Online in California? (Here’s the Truth You NEED to Know)

Short answer: Yes, you absolutely can!

If you’re searching for the most trusted California security guard training that’s BSIS-approved, flexible, affordable, and designed for busy professionals, you’re in the right place. Whether you want to get your California Guard Card, or run a security company that hires fully licensed guards, this guide from the National Institute of Public Safety will explain everything you need to know about completing your training online and in-person — and why compliance with the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) is non-negotiable.

What Is BSIS and Why Is It Critical for Security Guards in California?

The California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) is the official state agency responsible for licensing security officers and enforcing training standards across California.

You cannot legally work as a security guard or operate a security business without BSIS certification.

If you hire unlicensed security guards or skip the mandatory training, you risk:

• Hefty fines and penalties

• Legal liabilities and lawsuits

• Damage to your reputation and loss of contracts

BSIS Security Guard Training Requirements in California

To obtain and maintain a valid California Guard Card, all security officers must complete:

1. 8-Hour Initial Security Officer Certification Course (Click Here to Learn More) https://nationalips.com/courses/initial-security-officer-course-california/

2. 32 Hours of Continuing Education Training within the first 6 months of employment (Click Here to Learn More) https://nationalips.com/course-bundle/california-32-hour-security-officer-continuation-package/

3. 8-Hour Annual Renewal/Refresher Course to keep your certification active (Click Here to Learn More) https://nationalips.com/courses/renewal-refresher-security-officer-course-california/

The good news? The BSIS allows part of this training to be completed online, but some key portions must be completed in person, ensuring guards are fully prepared with hands-on skills and knowledge.

How the National Institute of Public Safety Makes BSIS Training Easy & Accessible

As a CA BSIS Licensed Training Provider (ID# ATG-2976), the National Institute of Public Safety offers the most flexible and comprehensive California security guard training programs:

Initial 8-Hour Security Officer Certification Course:

Link to Initial Course (For New Guards): https://nationalips.com/courses/initial-security-officer-course-california/

• 4 Hours Online: Powers to Arrest, legal responsibilities, and key security knowledge — accessible 24/7 on any device

• 4 Hours In-Person: Appropriate Use of Force training — held live in Santa Clarita, California, serving all of Los Angeles County and surrounding valleys

32-Hour Continuing Education Training

Link to 32- Hour Bundle (Within first 6 Months): https://nationalips.com/course-bundle/california-32-hour-security-officer-continuation-package/

• 100% Online: Complete the required continuing education courses anytime, anywhere

• Available as eight separate 4-hour BSIS-approved courses or as a discounted bundle package

• Must be completed within the first 6 months of employment to stay compliant

• 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.

8-Hour Annual Renewal/Refresher Course

Link to Refresher/Renewal Course (Annually): https://nationalips.com/courses/renewal-refresher-security-officer-course-california/

• Fully Online: Designed for convenience and compliance

• Required annually to renew your Guard Card and keep your security skills up to date

Why Choose National Institute of Public Safety for Your Security Guard Training?

• Licensed & Approved: BSIS Certified Training Provider ID# ATG-2976 guarantees your training meets state regulations

• Convenient Hybrid Training Model: Combine flexible online learning with crucial in-person sessions

• Experienced Instructors: Learn from professionals with real law enforcement and security expertise

• Local In-Person Classes in Santa Clarita: Serving Los Angeles County and nearby valleys — no long drives needed

• Ongoing Support: From enrollment through certification and job placement assistance, we are committed to your success

Security Companies — Don’t Risk Hiring Unlicensed Guards!

Security companies, listen up: Hiring unlicensed security guards is a costly mistake that can cripple your business with fines, lost contracts, and legal trouble.

At the National Institute of Public Safety, we make it easy for you to:

• Get your entire team BSIS certified with bundled training packages

• Save money and time by streamlining the certification process for all guards

• Stay fully compliant with California’s strict security regulations

Enroll Today — Your Security Career or Business Depends on It!

Whether you’re a new security officer eager to get your California Guard Card or a security company owner wanting to protect your business, the National Institute of Public Safety is your trusted training partner.

👉 Don’t wait! Enroll now or contact us today to get started on your BSIS-approved training and take your security career or company to the next level.

Contact Us For More Information!

National institute of Public Safety

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://nationalips.com/california-state/