8-Hour California BSIS Annual Security Officer Refresher Course Bundle

Understanding BSIS Annual Renewal Requirements

The California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) requires all security guards to complete 8 hours of continuing education annually to maintain their security guard license in California. This training is mandatory to renew your California license and continue working legally as a security professional.

Initial BSIS License Requirements:

1. Age Requirement:

• Must be at least 18 years old to apply for a California security guard license
• Age verification required throughout the license period
• No upper age limit, but physical fitness may be considered

2. Criminal Background Check Process:

• California Department of Justice (DOJ) background check - comprehensive state criminal history
• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) background check - national criminal database search
• Live Scan fingerprinting required - digital fingerprint submission process
• Background investigation covers criminal history, arrests, and legal issues

3. Live Scan Fingerprinting Procedure:

• Complete using the Security Guard Request for Live Scan Service form
• Ensures BSIS receives background information promptly and securely

4. Pre-License Training Requirements (8 Hours - Live Instructor Required):

Important: This initial training is NOT available online and must be completed with a live instructor before applying for your guard card.

Required Pre-License Courses:

• Power to Arrest (3 hours): Focuses on responsibilities and ethics of security guards, including legal aspects of arrest authority and limitations
• Appropriate Use of Force (5 hours): Designed to introduce, instruct, and familiarize applicants with proper use of force topics listed in Section 7583.7 of the Business and Professions Code

Note: Defencify does not offer this initial 8-hour live training - this must be completed through other approved providers before license application.

5. BSIS Application Process:

• Online Application Recommended: Submit through the BreEZe online system for faster processing
• Processing Time Benefits: Online applications via BreEZe may reduce processing time by up to two weeks compared to mailing applications

6. Application Processing Timeline:

• Processing times can vary based on background check complexity
• Online submissions: Typically 2-4 weeks faster than mail applications
• Complete applications are processed more quickly than incomplete submissions

Visit the BSIS Security Guard Registration page for comprehensive details and access to necessary forms. Ensure all requirements are met, and documentation is accurately completed to facilitate a smooth application process.

Renew your California Guard Card easily with Defencify Training.

Steps:

1. Complete the required 8 hours of annual BSIS-approved online course.
2. Pass the final assessment and download your Certificate of Completion.
3. Submit your certificate with your renewal application through the BSIS Breeze portal or by mail.
4. Pay the state renewal fees on the BSIS website.
5. Receive your renewed Guard Card in 2–4 weeks.

California requires guard card renewal every 2 years.