California Guard Card
Guides & Resources

The Course

• What is the 8-hour guard card course? — Power to Arrest + Appropriate Use of Force, explained.
• What is Power to Arrest? — The 3-hour first module and what it covers.
• Can you get a guard card online? — What the 2026 rules actually allow.

Cost & Timeline

• How much does a California guard card cost? — The full 2026 price breakdown.
• How long does it take to get a guard card? — Timeline from class to card.

Eligibility

• What disqualifies you from getting a guard card? — The full list of disqualifiers.
• Can you get a guard card with a felony or misdemeanor? — How BSIS reviews a criminal record.

Careers & Pay

• How much do security guards make in California? — 2026 pay by role.
• How do I get a security guard job? — From licensed to hired.
• How do I become an armed security guard? — The guard card plus the exposed firearm permit.

After You're Licensed

• How do I renew my guard card? — Renewal, expiration, and continuing training.

Veterans

• Veteran & military guard card discount — $70 for those who served, plus BSIS veteran priority and resources.

Go Deeper

• Guard Card Requirements (4 steps) — The full path, in order.
• Frequently Asked Questions — Everything students ask us most.
• Our Training Programs — The 8-hour course, CPR, and private sessions.