How do you become an armed security guard in California?

• February 12, 2024
• By Ryan Bantique

If you are interested in pursuing a career as an armed security guard in California, there are specific steps and requirements you need to fulfill. Becoming a licensed armed security guard in California involves completing the necessary training and obtaining the appropriate permits. This article will guide you through the process so you can start your journey in providing professional security services in California.

Key Takeaways:

• Completing an assessment demonstrating appropriate judgment, restraint, and self-control is required to associate a BSIS Firearms Permit with your security guard registration.
• To apply for a firearm permit, you must be a U.S. citizen or have permanent legal alien status and complete a 14-hour training course in the carrying and use of firearms.
• Obtaining a guard card issued by the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) is a prerequisite for becoming an armed security guard. This requires undergoing a criminal background check and completing a 40-hour training course.
• You must complete pre-licensing courses, including Power to Arrest training, before submitting your guard card application to BSIS.
• The guard card training consists of 16 hours of mandatory training and 16 hours of elective training, covering various topics related to security guard duties and responsibilities.

Assessment Requirements

According to the new law implemented on July 1, 2018, individuals seeking to associate a BSIS Firearms Permit with their security guard registration must complete an assessment demonstrating appropriate judgment, restraint, and self-control. The assessment is called the Sixteen Personality Factor Questionnaire (16pf) and is administered by PSI Services LLC. The fee for the assessment is $60. Based on the assessment results, individuals may either proceed to submit a Firearms Permit Initial Application or retake the assessment after 180 days if they did not demonstrate the required qualities.

Completing the assessment is crucial for aspiring BSIS security guard registrants looking to obtain a BSIS Firearms Permit. The assessment evaluates an individual’s ability to exercise appropriate judgment, exercise restraint, and maintain self-control in challenging situations. By assessing these qualities, the state of California aims to ensure that armed security guards possess the necessary emotional intelligence and decision-making skills to handle their responsibilities effectively.

“The ability to exhibit appropriate judgment, restraint, and self-control is crucial for armed security guards in California. It ensures that they can respond to volatile situations with a calm and measured approach, minimizing the potential for escalation and ensuring the safety of all individuals involved.”

Individuals who successfully pass the assessment and demonstrate the required qualities can proceed to submit their Firearms Permit Initial Application. The BSIS Firearms Permit allows security guards to carry and use firearms in their line of duty, provided they adhere to the strict regulations and guidelines governing their use.

Firearm Training and Permit Application

Obtaining a firearm permit in California requires individuals to complete a comprehensive 14-hour training course. This course is designed to educate aspiring armed security guards on the safe carrying and proper use of firearms. It consists of 8 hours of classroom training, where participants learn about moral and legal aspects, firearms terminology, weapon handling, emergency procedures, and more. The remaining 6 hours are spent on the firing range, where trainees receive hands-on instruction in range training.

All training courses must be conducted by a Bureau-certified firearms training instructor at a Bureau-certified training facility. This ensures that individuals receive high-quality instruction from experienced professionals who have met the rigorous standards set by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS).

After completing the 14-hour training course, individuals can proceed with the firearm permit application process. To apply, they must meet certain eligibility requirements, such as being a U.S. citizen or having permanent legal alien status. They must also be at least 18 years old.

As part of the application process, individuals are required to undergo Live Scan fingerprinting, which involves digitally capturing their fingerprints for background checks. They must also submit the firearm permit application and pay the associated application fee.

Completing the required training course and submitting the necessary documentation are essential steps in obtaining a firearm permit in California. It ensures that armed security guards are well-trained and knowledgeable when it comes to carrying and using firearms, promoting safety and professionalism in the security industry.

Requirements for Guard Card

Before individuals can become armed security guards in California, they must obtain a guard card issued by the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). This guard card serves as proof that they have met the necessary qualifications and undergone the required training to work in the security industry.

To obtain a guard card, individuals need to fulfill the following requirements:

By fulfilling these requirements, individuals can obtain their guard card and proceed to the next steps in their journey to becoming armed security guards in California.

Becoming a Registered Security Guard

To apply for a guard card in California, individuals must complete 8 hours of pre-licensing courses, which include Power to Arrest training. These courses provide aspiring security guards with essential knowledge and skills to perform their duties effectively and responsibly.

Power to Arrest training focuses on teaching individuals about the legal and ethical aspects of arrest powers, as well as the necessary steps and procedures involved in making arrests. It covers topics such as the legal responsibilities of a security guard, limitations of arrest powers, appropriate use of force, and the importance of maintaining public safety.

After completing the first 8 hours of training, individuals can then submit their guard card application to the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). The guard card is an essential requirement for anyone looking to work in the private security industry in California.

Once approved, individuals become registered security guards and must fulfill additional training requirements set by the BSIS. Within 6 months from the initial registration, registered security guards are required to complete an additional 32 hours of BSIS-required training. This training is designed to enhance their skills and knowledge in areas such as observation and documentation, public relations, communication, and legal aspects of the job.

Completing the required training ensures that registered security guards are equipped with the necessary expertise to handle various security situations effectively and professionally. It also demonstrates their commitment to continuous learning and development within the industry.

Benefits of Pre-Licensing Courses and BSIS-Required Training:

• Develop essential skills and knowledge required for a career in the private security industry.
• Learn about the legal and ethical responsibilities of security guards.
• Understand the appropriate use of force and arrest powers.
• Enhance observation, documentation, and communication abilities.
• Gain insight into public relations and customer service skills.
• Stay up to date with current laws and regulations within the industry.
• Demonstrate professionalism and commitment to the field.

By completing pre-licensing courses and the BSIS-required training, aspiring security guards can position themselves as well-trained professionals in the industry. These courses provide the foundation and knowledge necessary to excel in the role of a security guard and ensure the safety and security of both clients and the general public.

Guard Card Training Timeline

The process of obtaining a guard card in California involves completing a comprehensive training program. This training is divided into two parts, totaling 32 hours of instruction. Here is a breakdown of the guard card training timeline:

1. 1. Mandatory Training: 16 hours

Within the first 30 days of starting the training program, individuals are required to complete 16 hours of training. This includes 8 hours of BSIS Mandatory training, covering essential topics such as public relations, observation and documentation, communication, and legal aspects. The mandatory training is crucial for building a solid foundation in security practices and ensuring compliance with industry standards.

1. 1. Elective Courses Training: 16 hours

After completing the mandatory training, individuals must fulfill an additional 16 hours of training within 6 months. This training follows the same format as the mandatory training, with 8 hours dedicated to BSIS Elective Courses. The elective training allows individuals to further specialize their skills and knowledge in areas such as crowd control, emergency response, or security technologies.

Completing the guard card training within the specified timelines is crucial for individuals aspiring to become armed security guards in California. It ensures that they acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their duties effectively and contribute to maintaining a safe and secure environment.

Disqualification and Age Requirements

Violent crimes and felonies disqualify individuals from becoming security guards in California. Other convictions and misdemeanors are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. To be eligible for a guard card, individuals must be at least 18 years old.

In California, stringent regulations are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of the public. As a result, individuals convicted of violent crimes or felonies are disqualified from pursuing a career as a security guard. These disqualifications serve as a safeguard, preventing those with a history of violent offenses from carrying out security duties.

While violent crimes and felonies automatically disqualify individuals, other convictions and misdemeanors are carefully assessed on a case-by-case basis. The Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) takes into account the nature of the offense, its severity, and other relevant factors when determining eligibility.

In addition to criminal records, there are specific age requirements that must be met to obtain a guard card. To be eligible, individuals must be at least 18 years old, ensuring maturity and responsibility in carrying out security duties.

Licensing and Cost

Obtaining a guard card in California involves certain fees and costs. Here’s an overview of the expenses you can anticipate:

Guard Card Application Fee:

To apply for a guard card, you will need to pay a guard card application fee. In California, the current fee is $55. This fee covers the processing and evaluation of your application by the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS).

Fingerprinting Fees:

As part of the guard card application process, you will also be required to undergo fingerprinting. The fingerprinting fees are separate from the application fee and may vary depending on the provider you choose. The costs typically range from $25 to $60.

Security Guard Training Courses:

Completing the necessary training courses is essential to qualify for a guard card. The cost of these courses will depend on the training provider you select. It’s important to choose a reputable and BSIS-approved training school that offers comprehensive and quality instruction. The fees for security guard training courses can range from $150 to $500, depending on the duration and content of the program.

Salary Expectations

When considering a career as a security guard in California, it’s important to understand the salary expectations for both armed and unarmed guards. The average salary for an armed security guard in California is $49,594, while the average salary for an unarmed security guard is $39,213 (source: PayScale).

The actual salary can vary based on factors such as experience, tenure, and additional qualifications like firearm permits. Security guards who have obtained a valid firearm permit may command higher salaries due to the specialized training and added responsibilities associated with carrying a firearm. It’s important to note that these figures are averages, and individual salaries may vary.

Training Provider Recommendation

When it comes to finding a reputable training school for your security guard training needs, look no further than NITA. As an approved BSIS Training School, they offer online training courses that are designed to provide comprehensive knowledge and skills necessary to become a licensed armed security guard in California.

NITA’s training program consists of 32 hours of BSIS-required training, conveniently accessible online. Their courses cover a wide range of topics, including crowd control, public relations, liability, and legal issues, ensuring that you receive a well-rounded education on all essential aspects of security services.

With NITA’s online training courses, you have the flexibility to learn at your own pace and convenience, allowing you to balance your training with other commitments. Whether you are just starting your career in the security industry or are looking to upgrade your skills, NITA’s training program has you covered.

By choosing NITA as your training provider, you can rest assured that you are receiving quality education from a reputable institution. Their experienced instructors are dedicated to delivering the highest standard of training, ensuring that you are well-prepared for the challenges of a career in security services.

Enroll in NITA’s online training courses today to kick-start your journey towards becoming a licensed armed security guard in California. Gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence that are necessary to excel in the industry and provide professional security services.

Conclusion

Becoming an armed security guard in California is a highly regulated process that requires completing specific training, passing assessments, and obtaining the necessary licenses and permits. It is crucial to meet all the requirements set by the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) to ensure a professional career in providing security services.

With the right training and qualifications, individuals can embark on a rewarding and fulfilling career as licensed armed security guards in California. Armed security guards play a vital role in safeguarding individuals, properties, and assets, ensuring the safety and security of their clients.

Professional security services provided by licensed armed security guards are in high demand in various sectors, including residential complexes, commercial establishments, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and event venues. These professionals are trained to handle critical situations, exercise sound judgment, and maintain restraint and self-control when faced with challenging circumstances.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in the security industry and becoming an armed security guard in California, it is essential to research the specific requirements, training programs, and licensing processes outlined by the BSIS. By following the necessary steps and obtaining the required licenses and permits, you can establish yourself as a trusted and capable professional in the field of security services.

Source Links

• https://www.securityguardtraininghq.com/how-to-become-an-armed-guard-in-california-firearm-permit-application-process/
• https://www.bsis.ca.gov/firearmsassessment/index.shtml
• https://investigativeacademy.com/california-guard-card-requirements-how-to-become-a-security-guard-in-ca/
• https://secureguardservices.com/jobs/