Here's How It Works

The State of California requires any person working in the security field to get a guard card.

1. Take an 8 hr Guard Card Course
2. Get Finger Printed (livescan)
3. Submit Guard Card Application to:
   Bureau of Security & Investigation Services

I NEED MORE INFO!

More Details:

Step 1:) Complete an 8 hour guard card course. After you complete the guard card course you will receive a course certificate from CSTC and a guard card application with your information on it.
Step 2:) Get finger printed. Livescan is the digital fingerprinting process you'll need to complete for BSIS to do your background check. The livescan fee is $51 -you pay the livescan facility this fee, not CSTC.
Step 3:) Submit guard card application to BSIS. After you have completed your finger printing, you have 3 methods to submit your guard card application to BSIS to be processed; mail, online, or in person. The State of CA BSIS fee is $50 to process your guard card application -you pay BSIS this fee, not CSTC.

After you submit your guard card application to BSIS, it takes 2-4 weeks to process and your guard card will be mailed to you. You can also check online to see if your permit has posted by going here: STATE OF CA BSIS

After you complete your guard card course, CSTC will explain everything to you in detail and also provide you with a list of livescan locations.

You can take the guard card class that best fits your schedule and whenever you are ready to get your fingerprints done, you can. There is no deadline for completing your livescan or submitting your guard card application to the state.

Q: Why can't I just take the online Guard Card training?
A: It is against regulations; there is no verifiable way for the state to know if you or your friend did the training. Don't waste your money, you'll never get it back.

Q: Do I have to take a test?
A: Yes, you have to take the Guard Card exam at the end of the 8hr course.

Q: I have a felony on my record, can I still get a guard card?
A: Each application to BSIS is case by case. Depending on the nature of the crime it may be possible for you to get a guard card.

Q: When can I take more classes?
A: You can take Firearms, Baton, & OC Spray/Taser immediately after completing the guard card course. You do not have to wait for your guard card to come in the mail to attend more training with CSTC.

Q: Can I start work after I take the class?
A: No, you need to complete your finger printing & send your application to BSIS and wait for your license to be posted. This takes on average about 2 weeks.

Q: If my guard card is posted online can I begin working?
A: Yes, if you carry a copy of your guard card print-out on your person while working as a security officer you are in compliance.