Even though the BSIS November 14, 2024 update isn’t brand new, many aspiring and current California security officers may not yet be aware of the new Powers to Arrest course requirements. Previously, BSIS allowed the Powers to Arrest (PTA) course to be completed fully online, along with 4 hours of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) & Terrorism Awareness. While convenient, this online-only format did not provide the hands-on, practical experience required to confidently perform security duties in the field.
The updated format now requires at least 50% of the training to be conducted in-person, focusing on Powers to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force (AUOF). The WMD course has been moved to an optional elective, allowing officers to choose additional specialization if desired. These changes ensure that every California Guard Card holder is better prepared, legally compliant, and ready for real-world security situations.
In this post, we’ll cover:
How the training used to be conducted
The changes introduced in the November 14, 2024 BSIS update
How National Institute of Public Safety (National IPS) helps students complete the New BSIS-approved Powers to Arrest training
Step-by-step guidance for obtaining your California Guard Card
By the end, you’ll know exactly what the update means, how it affects your training, and how National IPS can help you complete the course efficiently and confidently.
View Official BSIS Powers to Arrest Course Update Here: Official BSIS Powers To Arrest Course Update
Before The November 14, 2024 Powers to Arrest (PTA) Course Update BSIS allowed:
Fully online training for both the Powers to Arrest and Weapons of Mass Destruction Courses.
Flexible scheduling, with self-paced lessons for the full 8-Hour Training.
Limited practical experience, as training focused mainly on theoretical knowledge.
While convenient, online-only courses lacked hands-on scenario-based learning, which is crucial for applying use-of-force and arrest powers safely and legally.
BSIS introduced key improvements to the Powers to Arrest (PTA) Course:
Mandatory 50% In-Person Training: Training is no longer 100% online half of the 8-Hour Course must now be completed in person . This update Ensures students gain practical, scenario-based experience.
Updated Curriculum: Training now includes Powers to Arrest (online) and Appropriate Use of Force (In-person).
Elective Courses: The BSIS WMD & Terrorism Awareness Course is now an optional elective.
Enhanced Learning Objectives: Courses cover lawful use-of-force, duty to intercede, de-escalation, emergency response, and professional conduct.
These changes better prepare California security officers for real-world situations while keeping them compliant with state law.
Complete 8 Hours of BSIS-Approved Hybrid Training
Finish your initial Guard Card training with a combination of online and in-person instruction: complete the Powers to Arrest (PTA) portion online and the Appropriate Use of Force (AUOF) session in-person.
Receive Your Course Completion Certificate
After finishing both portions, you will be issued a certificate for Powers to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force.
Submit Your Guard Card Application
Apply for your California Guard Card and submit your Live Scan fingerprints to BSIS.
Receive Your Official California Guard Card
Once approved, you’ll receive your official Guard Card, fully compliant with BSIS regulations.
Begin Your Security Career
With your Guard Card in hand, you can start working as a licensed California security professional.
If you want to get your California Guard Card quickly, National Institute of Public Safety (National IPS) can help. As a BSIS-approved provider, we follow the November 14, 2024 update and offer training that meets all state requirements.
Our programs are flexible, affordable, and career-focused, with both online and in-person courses. California requires 40 hours of BSIS-approved training to become a licensed security guard, and National IPS provides all mandatory courses, from your initial Guard Card to advanced certifications, so you can get certified efficiently and confidently.
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
Final ThoughtsThe BSIS November 14 update represents a significant step forward in California security training. By requiring at least 50% in-person instruction and updating the curriculum to focus on Powers to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force, BSIS ensures security officers are better prepared, legally compliant, and capable of handling real-world situations safely.
For students and aspiring security professionals, completing this updated training with a BSIS-approved provider like National IPS is the fastest and most reliable way to earn a valid California Guard Card. National IPS provides flexible online and in-person training, expert instructors, and hands-on support with applications and career placement, making the process straightforward and efficient.
Staying up-to-date with BSIS requirements is not just about compliance — it’s about building the skills, confidence, and professionalism needed to succeed in California’s dynamic security industry.
✅ Take the first step toward a career-ready California Guard Card by enrolling with National IPS today.
📍 Enroll at NationalIPS.com
📞 Call (302) 556-7446 for direct enrollment support
Ready to Start Today?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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