Security guards in California must be at least 18 years old and able to pass both state and federal background checks. A total of 40 hours of training in the first year are required to obtain and maintain a California guard card. The first 8 hours and "Power to Arrest" exam must be successfully completed before an application for licensing can be submitted. An additional 16 hours are required in the first 30 days and the final 16 must be completed in the first six months.
The "Power to Arrest" pre-requisite course is offered on a walk-in basis at certified schools. Security guards are also required to complete courses in public relations, observation and documentation, liability and legal aspects and communication. These four courses are part of the first 30-day certification process and are offered individually or as part of a package at most security guard training schools.
Elective courses include criminal laws, workplace violence, arrest search and seizure, crime scene stabilization, crowd control and evacuation procedures. A security guard may not carry a firearm without a permit issued by the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). Concealed weapons permits must be obtained from local authorities for each caliber of carry.
"Power to Arrest" courses, including exam, cost in the range of $50 - $60 in February 2011. Additional elective courses, offered in package prices at most schools in the same time frame, range from $200 - $360, not including licensing fees or firearm permits. Most schools will help facilitate completion of the entire licensing process without additional cost.