These are the required courses a security guard must complete in order to receive a California Guard Registration Card (Guard Card). California law requires all security guards to be licensed through the California Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Security and Investigative Services. The license is called a Guard Registration Card, or “Guard Card” for short.
California WMD Course
How much will the guard card cost me in total?
What is LiveScan?
Live Scan is a system for the electronic submission of fingerprints and the subsequent automated background checks and responses. A live scan is required for guard card and firearm permit applications.
Can I work before I receive my guard card?
You cannot legally work as a security guard until you are issued a Guard Card. However, once your guard card has been approved, you can print out the approval from the BSIS website. You can use the printout to show a potential employer that your guard card has been approved and is on its way.
How long will it take to get my guard card from the state?
If you apply online at the BSIS website, your guard card may be approved more quickly. Some of our students have received their guard card approval within two weeks. Others have taken four months. BSIS states that the application process can take as long as four months to complete (currently listed CA State Turn Time).
Can I get a guard card even if I have a criminal record?
Perhaps. It depends on the crime and when it occurred. Unfortunately, BSIS is the only organization that can answer this question. For more information,information, contact BSIS directly atdirectly at:
Bureau of Security and Investigative Services
2420 Del Paso Road, Suite 270
Sacramento, CA 95834
(916) 322-4000
1-(800) 952-5210
FAX (916) 575-7290
bsis@dca.ca.gov
Do I have to complete the guard card class before I apply for the guard card?
Yes, the class is a requirement before you submit your application for the guard card.
Am I guaranteed a guard card if I pass this guard card course?
No. Completing the course does not guarantee that BSIS will issue you a guard card.