Frequently Asked Questions
Baton Training
How long is the baton training course? –
The Valley Guard Training baton course takes approximately 7–8 hours to complete.
After completing the training, Valley Guard Training provides a certificate of completion as proof of training. This certificate must be submitted to BSIS with your application and fee in order to receive your official BSIS baton permit, which is issued by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services.
Can I take the baton training course if I don’t have my guard card? +
You may take the baton training course if you already have a guard card or if you have submitted a guard card application that is pending with BSIS.
We offer the baton course to licensed security officers and individuals who have applied for a BSIS guard card. You should bring a valid state-issued ID or driver’s license to class, along with your guard card or a copy of your guard card application.
This course is intended only for licensed or applying security officers.
Will I receive my baton certificate at the end of training? +
Yes. Valley Guard Training will provide you with proof of completion of the baton training course at the end of the class.
The official baton permit is issued by BSIS, not the training facility. After completing the course, you must submit your baton permit application and the $66 BSIS fee to receive your permit.
If you would like, our store can also provide a baton for purchase at a discounted price.
What are the requirements to take your baton training course? +
To take the baton training course, you must be at least 18 years of age and have a California guard card or have already applied for one.
You must also bring a valid state-issued ID or driver’s license to class.
Individuals with a felony conviction, certain violent misdemeanor convictions, or who are subject to a restraining order are not eligible to take the course.
Can I bring my own baton to class? +
No. We provide a baton for you to use during the training course.
Because transporting or possessing a baton is not lawful until you have completed the required training and obtained a permit, we do not recommend bringing your own baton to class.
When does the baton permit expire? +
The BSIS baton permit is valid for two (2) years from the date it is issued. The permit must be renewed before it expires and is only valid while you have an active California guard card. If the permit expires, it cannot be renewed and you must apply for a new baton permit.
I lost my baton permit (or it was stolen). How do I get a replacement? +
If your baton permit is lost or stolen, you must complete a Request for Replacement Baton Permit Card and submit it to BSIS with the $25 replacement fee. BSIS requires permit holders to report the loss and apply for a replacement within 72 hours. Once your application is submitted, you may continue working with a baton while waiting for the replacement if your guard card is active.
Does the baton permit cover any kind of baton? +
No. The baton permit only covers the type of baton you were trained to use.
Your permit documents the specific baton training you completed at Valley Guard Training. For example, if you only train with the PR-24 baton, your authorization would apply only to the PR-24. If you train with both the PR-24 and an ASP (straight) baton, you would be authorized to carry both types of batons.
