Security Guard Card & License Services in San Diego, CA
Need your California security guard card (BSIS registration)? Elite Falcons Security helps San Diego residents get licensed, renew their guard card, and start working in security. We also provide on-site Live Scan fingerprinting — a required step for every guard card application in California.
Already licensed? We're hiring.
If you already have your California guard card, apply to join the Elite Falcons Security team in San Diego today.
Contact us about employment →What Is a California Security Guard Card?
A California security guard card — officially called a Security Guard Registration — is a license issued by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS), a division of the California Department of Consumer Affairs.
Every person working as a security guard in California — including San Diego — is required by law to hold a valid BSIS guard card. This applies to armed and unarmed guards, patrol officers, and event security personnel.
Elite Falcons Security only employs BSIS-licensed officers, and we can help you navigate the licensing process if you're looking to start a career in security in San Diego.
Guard Card Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old
- Complete 8 hours of pre-assignment training
- Pass a DOJ & FBI background check (Live Scan)
- Submit BSIS application + $50 fee
- No disqualifying criminal convictions
Guard Card Validity
California security guard cards are valid for 2 years and must be renewed with 32 hours of continuing education.
Armed Guard Permit
To carry a firearm as a security guard in California, you need an additional BSIS Firearms Permit on top of your guard card. We can help with this too.
How to Get Your Security Guard Card in California
The California guard card process has four steps. Elite Falcons Security can assist with steps 2 and 3 directly at our El Cajon office.
Complete Pre-Assignment Training
8 hours of BSIS-approved pre-assignment training covering legal powers of arrest, emergency procedures, public relations, and more.
Live Scan Fingerprinting
Get fingerprinted at our El Cajon location. We submit your prints directly to the DOJ and FBI for your background check.
Submit BSIS Application
Complete and submit your security guard registration application to the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services with the required fee.
Receive Your Guard Card
Once approved, you receive your California security guard card. You can work with a temporary registration while your permanent card is processed.
How Elite Falcons Security Helps You Get Licensed
From fingerprinting to employment, we support San Diego residents through every stage of the guard card process.
Guard Card Application Guidance
Step-by-step assistance navigating the California BSIS security guard registration process — from training to final approval.
Live Scan Fingerprinting
DOJ & FBI-approved Live Scan fingerprinting at our El Cajon office — a required step for all California guard card applications.
Guard Card Renewal Support
Assistance with renewing your California security guard card every two years, including continuing education requirements.
Armed Guard Permit Assistance
Guidance on obtaining your California Firearms Permit (BSIS) to work as an armed security officer in San Diego.
Training Referrals
Connections to BSIS-approved security guard training providers in San Diego County for your required 8-hour pre-assignment course.
Employment After Licensing
Once you have your guard card, apply to join the Elite Falcons Security team and start working in San Diego right away.
Need Live Scan Fingerprinting for Your Guard Card?
Walk-ins welcome at our El Cajon office. DOJ & FBI-approved. Results submitted electronically.
Security Guard Card FAQs — California & San Diego
How do I get a security guard card in California?
To get a California security guard card (BSIS registration), you must complete 8 hours of pre-assignment training, submit an application to the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS), pass a background check, and pay the required fee. Elite Falcons Security can guide you through the entire process.
How much does a California security guard card cost?
The California BSIS security guard registration fee is currently $50 for a new application. Additional costs include training fees and Live Scan fingerprinting (approximately $50–$80). Contact us for current pricing on our guard card assistance services.
How long does it take to get a security guard card in California?
After submitting your BSIS application with Live Scan fingerprints, processing typically takes 2–6 weeks. You can begin working as a security guard with a temporary registration while your permanent card is processed.
Do I need a security guard card to work in San Diego?
Yes. California law requires all security guards to hold a valid BSIS security guard registration (guard card) before working. Working without a guard card is illegal and can result in fines for both the guard and the employer.
Can Elite Falcons Security help me get my guard card in San Diego?
Yes. Elite Falcons Security provides guidance and assistance with the California security guard card process, including connecting you with approved training providers, Live Scan fingerprinting at our El Cajon location, and application support.
How do I renew my California security guard card?
California security guard cards must be renewed every two years. Renewal requires completing 32 hours of continuing education (8 hours per year) and submitting a renewal application to BSIS before your card expires.
Ready to Get Your California Security Guard Card?
Call us or send a message — we'll walk you through the process and get you started with Live Scan fingerprinting at our El Cajon office.