If you’re starting your career in private security, one of the most common questions is:
“How long does it take to get a California Guard Card?”
The short answer: Guard Card training only takes 8 hours, and most students receive their BSIS Guard Card in as little as 1–2 weeks.
However, depending on state processing times, it can take up to 60 days in some cases.
Here’s a complete breakdown of what a California Guard Card is, How to get a California Guard Card, and How long it takes to get a California Guard Card.
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
Pass a DOJ & FBI background check
Submit your BSIS Guard Card application
Without a valid Guard Card, you cannot legally work as a security guard in California.
Visit the Official BSIS Guard Card Page
The first step is finishing your 8 hours of BSIS-required training:
Half Online: Powers to Arrest
Half In-Person: Appropriate Use of Force
At the National Institute of Public Safety (National IPS), you can:
💻 Start online instantly from your couch
👨🏫 Finish your in-person session in Los Angeles County (Santa Clarita area)
📜 Receive your BSIS-approved certificate of completion the same day
Most students complete this training in just one day — it’s the fastest and easiest step toward getting your license.
Link to Initial Course (For New Guards) (Sign Up Here) 
: Enroll in the Hybrid (Half Online/Half In-Person) Initial Security officer Course
After completing your training, you’ll apply for your Guard Card through the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) using the Breeze online portal.
Takes about 15–30 minutes
You’ll upload your training certificate and pay the BSIS fee
Next, you’ll complete a Live Scan fingerprint background check through the California DOJ and FBI.
Most Live Scans are processed within 24–72 hours
Results are automatically sent to BSIS for review
Once BSIS receives your application, training certificate, and background results, they will process your Guard Card.
Typical approval time: 1–2 weeks
Possible delay: Up to 60 days depending on background checks, holidays, or application volume
You can check your application status anytime on the BSIS License Lookup website Here
Most students who train through National IPS receive their Guard Card in about 1–2 weeks, but the official processing window from BSIS can extend up to 60 days.
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!
Why Choose the National Institute of Public Safety?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
The National Institute of Public Safety (National IPS) is an official BSIS-approved training provider offering both online and in-person Guard Card training throughout California.
With us, you can:
✅ Start your 8-hour course online instantly 🖥️
✅ Finish training in one day
✅ Get help with BSIS application and Live Scan scheduling
✅ Earn your official BSIS training certificate
Whether you’re in Los Angeles County, Santa Clarita, San Fernando Valley, or Antelope Valley, we help you get licensed fast and stay compliant.
Getting your California Guard Card is faster and easier than most people realize.
With just 8 hours of required training, a quick Live Scan background check, and BSIS approval, you can be ready to start working in as little as one to two weeks 🕐.
At National IPS, we’re here to make the process stress-free — from online enrollment to certification.
Whether you’re brand-new to security or looking to advance your career, we’ll help you every step of the way.
Start your journey today and become a licensed California security professional 🛡️ — your career in public safety begins here.
You can begin your Guard Card training right now — no waiting required.
👉 Call (302) 556-7446 for live enrollment assistance, or
👉 Start online today at National Institute of Public Safety (NationalIPS.com)
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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