California Occupational License

License Title:
    Security Guard Registration
Return to Occupation Profile
Licensing Agency:
     Department of Consumer Affairs
     Bureau of Security and Investigative Services

Licensing Agency Contact Information:
     Address: PO Box 989002
West Sacramento,  CA  95798
     Phone Number: (916) 322-4000
     Fax Number: (916) 575-7290

     E-mail Address: bsis@dca.ca.gov
     Internet Address: http://www.bsis.ca.gov

License Requirements, Fees, and Examination Information:
Security guards are employed by licensed private patrol operators to protect persons or property and/or prevent theft.

Requirements:
Be 18 or older.
Undergo a criminal history background check through the DOJ and the FBI.
Complete the eight (8) hour "Power to Arrest" training and pass the examination.

Application Fee - $50
DOJ Fingerprint Processing Fee - $32
FBI Fingerprint processing Fee - $17
Renewal Fee - $450

“Power to Arrest” training is available from a Bureau approved training facility, approved trainer or Private Patrol Operator company.

Application and Exam Fee - $50
DOJ Fingerprint Processing Fee - $32
FBI Fingerprint processing Fee - $17
Renewal Fee - $35

The initial license is valid for 2 years. Each renewal cycle extends the registration for an additional 2 years.

Average time to process an application is 30-45 days.

Authority: Business and Professions Code, Chapter 11.5
Occupations To Which This License Applies:
Occupation TitleSOC Code
Security Guards 339032