How to Become a Security Officer in California
- 1). Obtain at least eight hours of power to arrest training and pass the subsequent examination. You may obtain training from any private patrol operator or any training facility certified by the California BSIS. After you receive your registration, you must complete 16 additional hours of training within the first 30 days and 16 more hours within the first six months for a total of 40 required training hours.
- 2). Print and complete a security guard live scan application located on the California BSIS website. Visit the nearest live scan site and request DOJ and FBI fingerprint processing. Live scan operators set their own rates, so fees will vary with each site. Once you complete the live scan, ensure that your forms contain an automated transaction number and the live scan operators signature, which will be required to complete the security guard application.
- 3). Complete an online security guard application on the California Department of Consumer Affairs online professional licensing system. You must pay the application fee at the time you apply with an accepted credit or debit card. If you do not have a credit or debit card, or wish to complete an offline application, you can submit an offline application along with a copy of your security guard live scan form. The copy of the live scan form must contain an ATI number and the signature of the live scan operator. You must include a check or money order with offline applications to cover the required application fee.
- 4). Wait 10 to 15 days for the BSIS to receive your application and criminal history clearances before you receive security guard clearance. You may check the BSIS's 'Verify a License' page to determine if you received clearance and may be placed on assignment. If you are unsuccessful in obtaining clearance, you may contact the BSIS to find out which factors contributed to your denial, but you must wait at least one year to submit a new application.
