Security Guard Card: Everything You Need to Know

Security is one of the biggest concerns nowadays, and professionals are needed to secure properties, people, or events. If you have decided to join the security field, getting a security guard card is an important step.

Whether in California, Arizona, or any other state, holding a guard card demonstrates that you are trained and authorized to work in this field.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key details about the security guard card, the process to obtain one, and what it means for your career in security.

What is a Security Guard Card?

The security guard card is a license that demonstrates authorization to perform their job as a licensed security guard. It shows that the person has completed proper training and passed a background check, ensuring their eligibility to protect and serve. These are normally issued by the state’s regulatory authority, such as California’s BSIS.

The card is required for both armed and unarmed security guards and certifies compliance with state law.

Some states, like California, require that an individual must have a BSIS security guard card if they are working in security. Requirements for obtaining a security guard card vary by state; one usually must complete training and pass a background check.

How to Get a Security Guard Card

Most often, the process of getting a security guard card consists of three major steps: training, a background check, and submission of an application. Let me now detail this further.

1. Undergo Security Guard Card Training
   Training is the first step in the process. Some states, like California and Arizona, require each security guard to complete a specific number of training hours before issuing a security guard card. Such training would include:

• Legal Requirements
• Emergency operations
• Communication skills
• Public safety and de-escalation techniques

1. One might Google ‘security guard card training near me’ to find out what certified programs are around them. Other institutions provide security guard card training online, so that would make it convenient for one.
2. Undergo a Background Check
   Part of obtaining a security guard card involves a background check to ensure applicants have no criminal records that would affect their ability to work. Some states, such as California and Arizona, require fingerprinting of applicants. Note that felonies or specific misdemeanors may affect your eligibility for a security guard card.
3. Submit a Security Guard Card Application
   After training and a background check, you can then apply for your security guard card. In California, this is done through the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services, or BSIS. Other states, such as Arizona, might have slightly different ways of doing things, but in general, the above steps are pretty close to being the same. Be sure to attach all required documents, such as proof of training and results of a background check. You can typically submit these applications online for convenience.

Security Guard Card in Various States

Requirements to get a security guard card vary from state to state. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key states:

California Security Guard Card

One needs to obtain a BSIS security guard card to be able to start working as a security guard in California. This requires completing at least 40 hours of training, both online and physically at school. In California, a security guard card could also be applied for online through the BSIS portal.

For those wondering how to get a security guard card in California, the process is straightforward. After completing the required training, you’ll need to submit an application, undergo fingerprinting, and pay any required fees. Once approved, you’ll receive your security guard card.

Arizona Security Guard Card

Arizona does the same thing, but it has some state-specific regulations. To get an Arizona security guard card, you will have to undergo training in Arizona laws and be subject to a background check. You can search for security guard card classes near me and find some training options in Arizona, or you can search online for AZ security guard card programs.

Nevada Security Guard Card

If you’re pursuing a Nevada security guard card, the requirements are also quite similar. You’ll need to complete a training program and submit an application through the state’s regulatory agency. Nevada offers certifications for both armed and unarmed security guards, depending on your career goals.

Security Guard Card Renewal

Keep in mind that even when you have obtained a security guard card, most of them will expire. Since some states have different renewal periods, most are based on a two- or four-year renewal cycle. Renewal usually requires a refresher course to be taken and an application submitted for the security guard card renewal.

States such as California will allow you to renew your security card easily through the BSIS online. Other states, such as Arizona, also allow for online renewals. Keep track of renewal dates to avoid any lapse in certification.

Security Guard Jobs and Guard Cards

A security guard card opens up an array of security jobs that you will now qualify for. Many security companies, in most cases, would get you a guard card; they either train you themselves or reimburse your cost. A few security companies pay for the training of a guard card to make entering the profession significantly easier.

While a few jobs in the security field exist that don’t require a guard card, such as entry-level positions or those in states with less stringent regulations, having a guard card drastically opens up job opportunities and increases pay.

Special Certifications and Posts

Other careers in security may require additional certifications in addition to the standard guard card security certification. Examples of these are armed security, which will require additional hours of training on top of what was required for the guard card, as well as passage of a firearms examination.

Other jobs, such as proprietary private security officer roles, require more qualifications than the regular guard card.

Another common question is whether a guard card is the same thing as a security license. A guard card only encompasses security guards. A security license may encompass many other, broader security services, such as private investigations.

Wrapping Up

Obtaining a security guard card forms one of the key steps toward achieving a career in security. Regarding California or Arizona, the general process always includes training, background checks, and submission of an application for a security guard card.

With a valid security guard card, you will have opened up a myriad of opportunities in the security field, be it unarmed security guard card jobs or whatever opportunity comes your way.

Keep current with renewal dates and complete any ancillary training the state requires for licensure, and your career as a security professional will progress smoothly. If one is considering a career in the field of security, now is an excellent time to consider options, train, and get a security guard card.