Want to Become a Security Officer in your state?
You’re ready to break into the fast-growing security industry. You show up for a job interview, polished and prepared. Then comes the big question:
“Do you have your BSIS Guard Card?”
If your answer isn’t “yes,” the interview usually is over before it even begins.
In California, you cannot legally work as a security guard without a Guard Card issued by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). Not only is it mandatory—it protects you, your employer, and the public.
Let’s cover:
What a BSIS Guard Card is
Why it’s required
What happens if you work without one
How National Institute of Public Safety (National IPS) helps you get certified fast with online and hybrid training options
And how employers can train entire teams with exclusive discounts
A BSIS Guard Card is a license that legally allows you to work as a security guard in California. It’s issued by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS), under the California Department of Consumer Affairs.
The Guard Card confirms that you have:
Completed BSIS-mandated training
Passed a DOJ and FBI background check
Filed a state-approved application
Without this certification, you cannot be employed as a security guard—anywhere in California.
🔗 Visit the Official BSIS Guard Card Page
A Guard Card is your key to entering California’s private security industry.
California law mandates that all unarmed and armed security guards be licensed through BSIS before starting any job.
No Guard Card? No job. Employers are legally prohibited from employing unlicensed guards for security positions.
To get the card, you must complete training and pass a background check. That means when you show your Guard Card, it signals professionalism and trust.
If you think skipping the license will fly under the radar—think again. Working without a Guard Card may have serious consequences potential consequences include:
Misdemeanor criminal charges
Fines up to $5,000
Immediate termination
Future disqualification from licensing
Fines of up to $5,000 or more per unlicensed guard
Risk of losing their Private Patrol Operator (PPO) license
Liability in case of incidents or lawsuits
Regulatory sanctions and investigations
Getting your Guard Card is easier than you think—especially with help from National IPS, a BSIS-approved training provider.
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:
Kick off your security career with this mandatory foundational course. It includes:
4 hours online covering the critical topic of Powers to Arrest
4 hours in-person focusing on Appropriate Use of Force — held conveniently in Los Angeles County and Santa Clarita (Click Here To Learn More): https://nationalips.com/courses/initial-security-officer-course-california/
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.
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/
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.
Your fingerprints are sent to the DOJ and FBI to ensure you meet legal requirements.
Use the BSIS BreEZe online portal to submit your application. National IPS offers guidance to make this part simple.
Once approved, you’ll receive your BSIS Guard Card and can legally begin work as a security guard.
The National Institute of Public Safety (National IPS) is your one-stop solution for BSIS Guard Card training. Their online and hybrid programs are state-approved, mobile-friendly, and designed to help you get licensed as quickly and affordably as possible.
✅ BSIS-approved curriculum
✅ All Unarmed BSIS Courses
✅ Self-paced and mobile accessible
✅ Application Guide
✅ Immediate downloadable certificate delivery
✅ Affordable pricing & payment plans
If you run a security company in California, hiring unlicensed guards puts your company at major legal and financial risk. Let National IPS make compliance easy.
📘 Bulk training solutions
💰 Volume discounts
✅ Tracking and reporting tools
🧑🏫 Dedicated account support
Whether you’re onboarding new hires or re-certifying your entire team, National IPS provides turnkey Guard Card solutions that are fast, affordable, and approved by the BSIS.
📞 Contact us today for custom corporate training packages:
🔗 https://nationalips.com
📧 Contact@nationalips.com
Working security in California without a BSIS Guard Card? It’s illegal, risky, and unnecessary.
Let National IPS walk you through the process step by step—whether you’re:
A new hire looking to get started
Or a security company protecting your license and train new guards.
With National IPS, certification is fast, online, and BSIS-approved.
👉 Click here to get started today
Name: National Institute of Public Safety
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://nationalips.com/
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The National Institute of Public Safety is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity / expression, national origin, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state or local law, where applicable, and those with criminal histories will be considered in a manner consistent with applicable state and local laws.
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