Just getting out of the military and looking for your next career move?

Transitioning to civilian life can feel overwhelming, but your skills, discipline, and experience make you a perfect fit for a career in security and the public safety industry! With the right California Guard Card training, you can step confidently into a rewarding private security career — from security guard roles to elite executive protection agents — all while setting yourself up for future public safety opportunities.

🎯California Guard Card Training: Your Gateway to the Security and Public Safety Industry

No matter your military background, California law requires you to have a valid Guard Card issued by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) to work legally as a security professional. This card proves you’re trained, certified, and ready to protect.

Why Security Careers Are Ideal for Veterans

🔝 Executive Protection Agents — High Stakes, High Rewards

If you excel under pressure, becoming an Executive Protection Agent could be your next mission. These professionals protect VIPs, celebrities, and corporate executives — and veterans bring invaluable skills to the role.

• Average salary: $72,091/year
• Top Earners:
  Can make up to $181,000+ per year depending on experience and location.
• Entry-level EP positions: $51K–$71K
• Some roles (e.g. in Menlo Park, Beverly Hills, LA) list $120K–$150K+ annually

  💡 Source: ZipRecruiter, Indeed, Glassdoor

  Indeed — Executive Protection Salaries California: https://www.indeed.com/career/protection-agent/salaries/CA

👮‍♂️Security Guards — Solid Pay, Steady Work In CA

For veterans seeking stability, security guard jobs offer competitive pay and flexible schedules.

• Average Hourly Wage: About $20/hour

• Average annual salary: ~$41,500

• Entry level Positions: $18.78/hour

• Top 10% Salary: Up to $66,189/year ($31.82 per hour)

Adding specialized certifications (firearms, baton, pepper spray) can significantly increase your earning potential.

Source: Indeed, Ziprecruiter

  Security Officer Salaries In CA Source: https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Security-Guard-Salary–in-California

🎖️BSIS Exemptions for Veterans — But You Still Need Your Guard Card

Veterans may qualify for exemptions from some BSIS training requirements — a recognition of your military service. However, these exemptions do not replace the essential need for a valid California Guard Card. Completing your Guard Card training ensures you’re compliant, legally employable, and ready to work.

Learn more about veteran exemptions here: BSIS Veteran Exemptions.

🎯How Security Training Can Pave Your Way Into Public Safety Careers

Many veterans use private security as a launchpad into wider public safety roles — from law enforcement to investigations. The experience and certifications you gain through California Guard Card training make you a stronger candidate for these future opportunities.

🎓 How the National Institute of Public Safety Helps Veterans Succeed

At the National Institute of Public Safety (NIPS), we specialize in helping veterans transition smoothly into civilian security careers. Our BSIS-approved training programs are flexible, accessible, and tailored to fit your lifestyle.

1. Initial Security Officer Course (8 Hours)

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.

2. Continued Training (32 Hours)

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/

3. Annual Renewal/Refresher Course (8 Hours)

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.

Exclusive Job Opportunities Through Guardally

Training is just the beginning. NIPS partners with Guardally, California’s leading security job board, giving veterans exclusive access to premium job listings. From armed security roles to executive protection, Guardally connects you with employers eager to hire veterans like you.

Take Charge of Your Civilian Career Today

Veterans: Your military background is your greatest asset. Combine it with California Guard Card training from the National Institute of Public Safety and job access through Guardally, and you’ll be ready to build a successful and rewarding civilian career in security.

👉 Reach out to NationalIPS now and start your transition with confidence.

Name: National Institute of Public Safety

Email: Contact@NationalIPS.com

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