Veteran & Military
Guard Card in California
Veterans, reserve, and active-duty military get priority handling from BSIS through the state Veterans Come First Program — and the 8-Hour Guard Card course with us is $70 rather than $80, with valid proof of service (a DD-214 or a military/veteran ID). The 8-hour course itself is still required for every applicant, veterans included.
BSIS Veterans Come First Program
California’s Bureau of Security and Investigative Services runs a Veterans Come First Program for service members moving into civilian security work. BSIS gives veteran applicants three specific things: priority in the licensure process, direct email contact at the Bureau, and a dedicated BSIS staff person when an application needs special attention.
That priority is worth something because of the wait behind it. BSIS currently publishes a 60-day processing time for an initial security guard registration, online or paper, for applications with no deficiencies. The priority is backed by statute, not just policy: Business and Professions Code section 115.4 has required Department of Consumer Affairs boards to expedite initial licensure for honorably discharged veterans since July 2016. Expedited review moves you up the queue — it does not guarantee a registration is issued.
What it does not include: there is no BSIS fee waiver for veterans. The waiver people often hear about comes from B&P Code section 115.5, and it applies to spouses and domestic partners of active-duty members who already hold a licence in another state — not to veterans generally.
Our Veteran Discount
The discount applies to our 8-Hour Power to Arrest & Appropriate Use of Force course for veterans, reserve, and active-duty military. Bring a DD-214 or a military/veteran ID as proof of service.
How to claim it: book the veteran rate directly with us rather than the standard online checkout — call or text (562) 313-6604, email us, or use the Get in Touch form, and have your proof ready.
The Veteran Guard Card Process
- Complete the 8-hour course and pass the exam (required for everyone)
- Submit your application through BreEZe
- Complete Live Scan fingerprinting for your DOJ/FBI background check
- Veterans receive priority handling — BSIS publishes a 60-day processing time for an initial guard registration, so if your file goes quiet well past that, contact BSIS directly: (800) 952-5210 or (916) 322-4000, bsis@dca.ca.gov, or the official BSIS contact page.
See the general path on our Guard Card requirements guide.
Using Your DD-214 & Military Experience
BSIS reviews your DD-214 and, if available, your military training transcript as part of your application. For the guard card itself the 8-hour course is still required, but your service supports the process — and your experience and training can count toward advanced BSIS licenses (like Private Patrol Operator or Private Investigator) down the road.
More Veteran Resources
- California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet)
- EDD veteran job assistance
- GI Bill licensing & certification reimbursement (higher BSIS license tests)
- Military spouses: under the federal SCRA, a license held in good standing in another state may transfer to California when you relocate on orders — see DCA military portability.
Related Questions
What does the BSIS Veterans Come First Program actually give you?
How much is the guard card course for veterans?
What proof of service do I need for the veteran discount?
Can reserve and active-duty members get the discount?
Does my military experience replace the 8-hour course?
Will the VA or GI Bill pay for my guard card?
Questions about the veteran rate? Contact us. Program details and processing times verified 8 September 2026 against bsis.ca.gov and the BSIS processing-times page. BSIS License ATG #2995. General information, not legal advice.
Veterans: Start Your Guard Card
The 8-hour course is required for everyone — but you go into the BSIS queue with priority. Book directly with us and bring your DD-214 or military/veteran ID.
Book the Veteran Rate — $70