My California Guard Card Was Denied — What Are My Options?

Getting your California Guard Card denied can feel like a major setback — but it doesn’t have to end your security career. The Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) offers clear steps to appeal or reapply, and with the right strategy, many applicants turn a denial into an approval. This article breaks down exactly why guard cards get denied, what you can do about it, and how the National Institute of Public Safety (National IPS) can help you succeed.

Why California Guard Cards Get Denied

Before you act, it’s essential to know why BSIS denies applications. According to California law (Business and Professions Code § 480 and Title 16 CCR), common reasons include:

• Criminal History or Disqualifying Convictions — Crimes deemed “substantially related” to the duties of a security guard (violence, theft, fraud) often lead to denial.

• False or Incomplete Applications — Leaving out convictions, providing incorrect info, or skipping documents can trigger automatic denial.

• Outstanding Legal Obligations — Unpaid fines, unresolved probation, or licensing issues in other states.

• Failure to Meet Rehabilitation Criteria — Inability to show completion of probation/parole, restitution, or evidence of good conduct.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get Your Guard Card California After a Denial

Step 1️⃣: Review Your Denial Letter 📄

Your BSIS denial letter spells out the exact reasons for denial. Look for:

• The specific conviction or paperwork issue cited.

• Deadlines for appeals (usually 30 days).

• Instructions for submitting additional documentation.

Act quickly — missing the deadline means you’ll likely have to start over.

Step 2️⃣ : Appeal Through the Disciplinary Review Committee (DRC) 📝

BSIS allows you to request an informal review before the Disciplinary Review Committee (DRC) if you believe the denial was unjust or you have new evidence.

How it works:

• Submit your request in writing within 30 days of the denial.

• Include supporting evidence such as court documents, proof of rehabilitation, expungement records, or letters of character reference.

• The DRC can affirm, rescind, or modify the denial.

Step 3️⃣: Resolve the Issues That Led to Denial 🛠️

If your denial stems from correctable issues, address them immediately:

• Criminal History: Provide proof of sentence completion, expungement, or rehabilitation programs.

• Missing Paperwork: Update Live Scan, fix incomplete fields, and submit all required documents.

• Outstanding Obligations: Pay fines, resolve probation, and clear other licensing conflicts.

Step 4️⃣ : Reapply When Eligible 🔄

Some denials require waiting until certain conditions are met. Use this time wisely:

• Build a positive work history.

• Take additional training to show commitment to the profession.

• Gather letters of recommendation and documentation of rehabilitation.

What to Do After Your Guard Card Is Granted or Reinstated

 Confirm Your Status with BSIS
Check your online BSIS account or contact the Bureau to verify your Guard Card shows as “active” before you start working again.

 Notify Your Employer Immediately
Provide your employer with a copy of your reinstated Guard Card so they can update their records and scheduling. Once your BSIS approval comes through, provide your employer with a copy so they know your California Guard Card reinstated and you’re cleared to return to work legally

 Update Your Training Records
Make sure your continuing education and refresher courses are current. Schedule future training well before deadlines to avoid another lapse.

 Maintain a Clean Record
Follow all workplace policies, state laws, and professional standards. Any new violation can affect your Guard Card again.

 Keep Copies of All Documents
Save your reinstatement letter, training certificates, and any communications from BSIS in a safe place.

 Plan for Renewal Early
Mark your calendar for your Guard Card renewal date. Submitting early helps avoid delays and keeps you compliant.

Pro Tip: National IPS can help you stay compliant by tracking your training requirements, offering refresher courses, and reminding you of renewal deadlines.

To learn more on how to Verify a BSIS Guard Card click here

How National Institute of Public Safety (National IPS) Can Help

The National Institute of Public Safety (National IPS) has guided thousands of students through California’s security licensing process. Here’s how we support you if your guard card was denied:

• Step-by-Step Guidance: We help you understand your denial letter and what BSIS needs to see in an appeal.

• Appeal Preparation: We show you how to collect and organize your court and rehabilitation documents for maximum impact.

• Training & Compliance: We ensure you complete state-approved training that meets or exceeds BSIS standards — a strong signal of your professionalism and commitment.

• Ongoing Support: Our advisors are available by phone or email to answer your questions and keep you on track.

Our Courses: Build Skills and Strengthen Your Application

Taking high-quality, state-approved training can demonstrate to BSIS that you’re serious about a career in public safety. National IPS offers:

 Explore Our California BSIS Security Officer Courses

At National IPS, we provide all BSIS-required training, from your initial Guard Card to advanced certifications:

8-Hour Initial Guard Card Training

• 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

 32-Hour Continued Security Officer Training (Online Guard Card Training)

• 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 

 40-Hour Guard Card Training Bundle (Best Value )

• 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 

 Annual Continuing Education (8 Hours Each Year) (Online Guard Card Training)

• 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

Start Training Now, Get Your California Guard Card – Pay Later With AFFIRM!

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” 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!

Frequently Asked California BSIS Guard Card Denial Questions & Helpful Answers

Q: Can I work as a security guard without a Guard Card?
A: No. In California, you must hold an active BSIS Guard Card to work as a security officer.

Q2: When must I file a request for California BSIS Guard Card Appeal for review?

A: Requests for review must be filed within 30 days of the issuance of the citation and assessment, denial, revocation, or suspension.

Q3: How long will it take before my California Guard Card review is scheduled?

Due to the large number of applications the Bureau receives, it may up to 120 days before you are scheduled for a review hearing.

Q4: How long does a BSIS appeal take?
A: Typically up to 120 days from when BSIS receives your request.

Q5: Will an expunged conviction still show up?
A: BSIS can still see expunged convictions but considers evidence of rehabilitation and dismissal favorably.

Q6: How will I know when my California Guard Card is granted or reinstated?
A: BSIS will notify you by mail or email once your application has been approved and your California Guard Card reinstated.

Q7: Can National IPS help me file my appeal?
A: We’re not a law firm, but we can guide you through the process and ensure your training and paperwork are in order.

Q8: Who can I contact for help to get my California Guard Card?
A: Call BSIS at (916) 322-4000 or work with a BSIS-approved training provider such as the National Institute of Public Safety (National IPS) at (302)-556-7446.

Why Denial Isn’t the End — What To Keep in Mind

• California law (AB 2138) updated how boards (including BSIS) evaluate criminal history, giving more weight to rehabilitation and limiting what can be considered as a basis for denial. Read More about California Law (AB 2138) Here

• Even when convictions are serious, evidence of rehabilitation, time elapsed, and resolution of legal obligations can make the difference.

• The DRC exists precisely to give applicants a chance at reversal, modification, or probationary registration/permit in certain cases. Read more about the the DRC Here

🧠Final Thoughts

Getting denied can feel like a dead end — but for many people it is not. The BSIS has structured, legally mandated paths to appeal and to present your case. If you follow those steps—review your denial, compile evidence, submit a strong appeal, demonstrate rehabilitation—you increase your chances significantly.

Ready to Get Your California Guard Card Online?

Stop scrolling and start securing your future!
 Enroll in BSIS-Approved Guard Card Training Today and join thousands of security professionals in California.

 Visit: www.NationalIPS.com

Let us help you earn your California Guard Card or reinstate your California Guard Card and launch your career in the security industry

Contact National Institute of Public Safety (National IPS)

 Phone: (302) 556-7446
 Email: Contact@nationalips.com
 Website: www.nationalips.com

For More Information on What a California Guard Card is and How to Get One Fast You Can View Our Blog: Here

Quick Access: Guard Card Training & BSIS Resources

National IPS and BSIS provide all the tools and courses you need to get back to work quickly and stay compliant. 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

• 32-Hour CA BSIS Security Officer Continued Education Bundle

• View All California BSIS-Approved Security Officer Courses

• BSIS Suspended or Denied California Guard Card FAQ’s 

• BSIS BreEZe Portal (Apply or Renew Online)

• BSIS Guard Card Renewal Application PDF

• Initial BSIS Guard Card Application PDF

• How to Get a California Guard Card / Licensing Info

• BSIS Fact Sheet – Security Guard Requirements & Regulations

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Always follow state regulations and consult official BSIS resources for compliance.