Guard Card Guides · Eligibility

What Disqualifies You From Getting a Guard Card in California?

Short answer

The most common disqualifiers are being under 18, lacking legal authorization to work in the U.S., certain criminal convictions (especially violent crimes or crimes of dishonesty), being on probation or parole for a disqualifying offense, an outstanding warrant or pending charges, not completing the required 8-hour training, and giving false or incomplete information on your application. BSIS reviews criminal history case by case, so a record is not always an automatic no.

Eligibility Disqualifiers

  • Being under 18 years old
  • No legal authorization to work in the United States
  • Not completing the required 8-hour course from a single BSIS-approved provider

Criminal History

Violent felonies or misdemeanors, crimes of dishonesty or moral turpitude, and domestic violence convictions are likely to disqualify you. Being on probation or parole for a disqualifying offense, or having an outstanding warrant or pending charges, can also block or delay approval. BSIS reviews each record individually — see our full guide on getting a guard card with a felony or misdemeanor.

Application Problems

A false statement or omission on your application is treated as grounds for automatic denial — worse than the underlying issue. Incomplete information or details that do not match your Live Scan can also stall or sink an application.

The Good News

Many disqualifiers are situational, not permanent. Older or non-violent records may still be approved, warrants can be resolved, and BSIS offers an appeal process if you are denied.

Related Questions

Is a criminal record an automatic disqualification?
No. BSIS reviews criminal history case by case, weighing the offense, how long ago it was, and evidence of rehabilitation. Violent crimes and crimes of dishonesty are the most likely to disqualify.
Can I be denied for lying on my application?
Yes. A false statement or leaving out required information is grounds for automatic denial, so always disclose honestly — even expunged or dismissed cases where the application requires it.
Does an outstanding warrant or unpaid ticket matter?
An outstanding warrant or pending charge can halt your application until it is resolved. Minor infractions like old traffic tickets are generally not a factor.
Can I reapply or appeal if I'm denied?
Yes. BSIS provides an appeal process, and you can reapply once a disqualifying issue (like probation or a warrant) is resolved.

See more in our full FAQ and guides, or contact us. Verified against bsis.ca.gov. BSIS License ATG #2995. General information, not legal advice.

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