California Guard Card Classes

A California guard card is your BSIS security guard registration, the license you need to work as an unarmed guard. It takes 8 hours of training, fingerprints and a state application, and we can handle all three.

Start today · BSIS-approved
8-Hour California Guard Card
$150one certificate, both courses
5 hrs online · Powers to Arrest3 hrs in person · Use of Force

Start the online part right away.
En español →

Your path to a guard card

Most people finish the training in a few days, then wait on the state.

1
Online5 hoursSelf-paced

Sign up and finish Powers to Arrest

Pay online and start immediately on your phone, tablet or computer. Stop and pick up where you left off whenever you need to.

2
In person3 hoursWalk in

Walk in for Appropriate Use of Force · Van Nuys, CA

Finish the online course first, then come to our facility in Van Nuys, CA any day we’re open. Van Nuys is our only location. No appointment. Arrive at least 3 hours before closing.

3
Same visit$146

Live Scan and your BSIS application

While you’re here, we roll your fingerprints and submit your application the same day, once your balance is paid. Start at least 1 hour before closing. You have 6 months after finishing your training to apply.

BSIS

Wait to get approved

Once your registration shows APPROVED on search.dca.ca.gov, an employer can put you to work; no need to wait for the card in the mail.

15–20 business days with a clean background
Questions about your application? Contact BSIS:
(916) 322-4000 · bsis@dca.ca.gov

What it costs

Pay $150 online to start. The rest is paid at the counter when you come in.

Training
8-Hour Guard Card class$150
Fingerprints & application
Guard Live Scan fingerprinting$74
BSIS application fee$60
Our processing fee$12
Total to get your card$296

Just let us know at the counter that you want Live Scan and the application handled.

What to bring

For your in-person visit.

18 or olderat the time of training
Valid photo IDphysical, state-issued
SSN or ITINthe card or just the number

What’s included online

Your online course and records live in your GuardBoss account.

Self-pacedStart and stop as often as you like; your progress is saved.
Open-note examMiss a question and you get a second attempt with a hint.
Certificates on demandPrint or email yours the moment you finish. It stays in your account.
Employer sharing & permit trackerSend records to your employer and keep your renewal dates straight, free.

After your card is issued

BSIS requires more training to keep your registration in good standing. It’s all online.

Within 30 days
16 hours
First half of your continuing education
Within 6 months
16 hours
Second half, 32 hours in all
Every year after
8 hours
Annual refresher, as long as you hold the card

Get it all done up front. The 40-Hour Bundle covers this class plus all 32 hours for $326.

See the 40-Hour Bundle

Already have your card? 32-Hour Continuing Education · Annual Refresher

Visit us

Walk-in hours

Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat 9:00am – 6:00pm
Sunday 11:00am – 6:00pm
Tuesday & Wednesday Closed

16140 Cohasset Street, Van Nuys · Get directions

Se habla español

The full 8-hour class is available in Spanish, same price and same certificate.

Inscríbase en español →
Call (818) 989-7825 and press 0 to speak with someone in Spanish.

Ready to get your guard card?

Sign up now and start the online portion today. $150, then $146 at the counter for Live Scan and your application.

Sign Up — $150

Questions first? Call (818) 989-7825

More answers in the Guard Card FAQ · Live Scan · Forms & Manuals

BSIS Certified