Training for Security Professionals

A Proud Tradition of Excellence
Security Training FAQ
What are the requirements to get a Guard Card?
  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Complete the required training; and
  • Undergo a criminal history background check by the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal  Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

What do I need to do to get my Guard Card? 

You need to do (3) things:

  1. Take the (8) hours State Mandated Guard Card Class
  2. Submit your fingerprints via Live Scan to the State of California 
  3. Submit an Application with fee to the State of California

Can I get these (3) things done at the class that The Loss Prevention Group offers?

Yes - all on the dame day!

When I do these (3) things, will I get my a Guard Card? 

By submitting your fingerprints and application to the State of California, they will then conduct a criminal background to determine if you are suitable to issue the Guard Card to. How much will this cost at The Loss Prevention Group?

The (8) hour class = $80
The Live Scan fingerprinting = $71
The State application = $51

The total for everything = $202

The (8) hour class = $80

Who decides and approves if I can get a Guard Card?

The Bureau of Security and Investigative Services is the agency that approves issuance of the Guard Card. 

After I complete the (3) things, how long will it take to get my Guard Card?

The standard processing time is 7-10 business days. If you have a criminal history, the processing time will take longer. Once the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services has received your online application and criminal history clearances, the registration will appear on the Bureau's Web site. You can verify the Bureau's approval by checking the Bureau's "
Verify a License" webpage. A screen-print from the Web site may be made and used as an interim security guard registration. You can then be placed on assignment. The actual security guard registration will be mailed to the applicant and should be received in 10 to 15 business days.

It has been more than 10 business days and my registration has not been posted online. What do I do?

You can contact the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services directly to check the status. Call (916) 322-4000 or Email
bsis@dca.ca.gov

Does the Guard Card expire?

Yes, Guard Registrations expire two years from the date of issuance. You will need to send in a renewal notice to the Bureau in addition to the $35 renewal fee.

I previously had a Guard Card, but it is expired now. Do I need to take the class, have my fingerprints taken and submit an application?

Yes, once your Guard Card has expired for 60 days or more you will need to complete all (3) steps again to obtain a current Guard Card.

If I have been arrested/convicted before, can I still get a Guard Card? 

That is completely up to the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services, if you have questions, contact them directly at (916) 322-4000 or by Email at bsis@dca.ca.gov 

What are the Continuing Education Training requirements?

Skills Training Course Requirements for Security Guards - In addition to the 8 hour Guard Card Training Course, every newly licensed security guard must complete 32 hours of additional training. Sixteen (16) hours must be completed within 30 days from the day the registration is issued, or within 30 days of starting employment. The remaining 16 hours must be completed within the first 6 months from the day the registration is issued, or within 6 months of starting employment. Eight (8) hours of continuing education is required every year after the first. Click here for more Frequently Asked Questions and Answers regarding Continuing Education (AB 2880).

If I move, how do I update my address?

If you move or change your address, you must notify the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services within 30 days, or you may be issued an administrative fine. Fill out the Request for Change of Address form and mail or fax it to the Bureau. 

How do I renew my Guard Card?

You may receive a (courtesy) renewal application mailed to the last address of record. If you do not receive a renewal application, you should submit a
Renewal Application (including the $35 renewal fee) to the Bureau. (This must be submitted before the expiration date.)

How do I obtain a replacement Guard Card?

To obtain a replacement Guard Card, you may fill out the
Request for Replacement Registration/Permit form and mail it back to the Bureau with a check for $10.