How To Become An Armed Security Guard In California

Becoming an armed security guard can be a great opportunity for growing your career in security. Being legally certified to be an armed guard can allow you to work in more high profile sites, to get paid more, and you automatically become a more valuable asset to security companies because you have specialized training that a regular guard may not have.

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To become an armed security guard in California, you’ll need to meet specific requirements set by the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS).

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Here’s the step-by-step process:

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1. Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements

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• Age: You must be at least 21 years of age to carry a firearm as a security guard.
• Legal Eligibility: You will need a clean criminal record, be eligible to work in the U.S., and pass federal and state background checks.

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2. Obtain the Required Security Guard Permit (Guard Card)

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• Complete the Initial 8 Hour Training: Before applying for your security guard card, you’ll need to take an 8-hour “Power to Arrest” training course from a BSIS-approved training facility; we typically recommend the Security and Firearms Training Academy (SAFTA). This training includes basic security practices, law enforcement protocols, and emergency response techniques.
• Submit Application: After completing the training you can apply for a Guard Card online through the BSIS website. The application includes a background check and fingerprinting through Live Scan, which requires you to pay fees for the BSIS application and Live Scan processing.

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We go much more in-depth into this initial process with our article about How To Become A Security Guard In California. 

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Feel free to read that and then come back to this article later on.

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3. Apply for an Exposed Firearm Permit (for Armed Security)

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After receiving your Guard Card, you can apply for a BSIS Firearms Permit to carry a firearm legally on the job.

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• Complete Firearm Training Course: Take a 16-hour course, which includes classroom instruction, shoot-no-shoot scenarios, as well as practical application on the shooting range. The course must be completed with a BSIS-approved firearms instructor. We recommend going with Security and Firearms Training Academy (SAFTA) and purchasing their Security Officer Exposed Firearm Course.

• Pass Firearm Assessment and Psychological Evaluation: After training, you must pass both a written test and shooting proficiency test at a BSIS-approved facility. This assessment will be used to determine if the applicant displays the appropriate judgment, restraint and self-control needed to carry a firearm in the course of their duties.

• Submit Application for Firearms Permit: The application is available through BSIS, which includes fees and documentation of your training and qualifications.

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4. Maintain and Renew Licenses

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• Continuing Education: In addition to maintaining your Guard Card, armed guards must complete 8 hours of continuing education in security every year.

• Firearm Requalification: Every six months, you must requalify for your firearm permit by completing another range qualification with a BSIS-approved instructor. You can requalify with SAFTA using their Exposed Firearms Requalification course.

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Things To Keep In Mind

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In California, you’re legally restricted to using only the specific caliber of firearm listed on your firearm permit, and you must carry your Guard Card, Firearms Permit, and proof of re-qualification with you whenever you’re on duty.

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Conclusion

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Obtaining an Exposed Firearms Security Permit is a relatively simple and straightforward process. But just because it is straightforward does not mean it is easy and everyone will be able to do it. 

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It is still a huge responsibility and only those who pass all requirements and qualifications will pass and be given a permit. 

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But once you have your Exposed Firearms Permit, it can be a great resource for your career in security that can open you up to more opportunities, higher pay, and a more responsibility in your security guard position.