FAQ
1. What licenses and requirements do I need to work as a security guard?
You must be at least 18 years old, complete a training course in Power to Arrest & Weapons of Mass Destruction, submit the appropriate fees to the Department of Consumer Affairs, and complete an additional 32 hours of training. We can take care of all of this for you, including mailing your state fees. You can find out more about qualifications by clicking here.
2. Are there any hidden costs or extra fees in your courses?
What most schools don't tell you is that there may be state application fees, license fees and background fees, not to mention the cost of the training. There are no hidden fees in our prices. We include everything into one price and process everything at our facility to save you time. In reality, our prices are comparable, if not cheaper, than other schools. We like to bundle our classes to include all fees (state licensing, background, etc.) so you don't have to do much more after you leave our facility.
3. I operate a security company and I need some of my employees trained at night. Can you help?
Yes! We can provide night courses as well depending on the class size. The larger the class, the better. We can find a time, even after midnight, to accommodate your staff training needs.
4. Why don't you provide online training like other schools?
We have found that students learn more in a classroom environment where the student can ask questions and interact with others. Additionally, our instructors have experience in the areas they instruct which is passed onto the student. Reading material on a subject is one thing, applying it in a practical application environment is another. We are hands on which is where the students learn. We teach then apply!
5. I am unemployed and need training so I can get a job. Can you help?
The Employment Development Department (EDD) may provide assistance to you and possibly pay for your training. We are registered with EDD as an Eligible Training Provider. Additionally, we can equip anyone with the training and certification to be a security officer.
6. There seems to be lots of paperwork & requirements to become a security officer & I'm not sure what to do or where to start.
Stop by our facility and we'll guide you through the entire process. We even go as far as sending all off your fees and paperwork, so you leave out facility not having to worry about a thing.
7. My guard card is about to expire & I haven't received a renewal notice. What should I do?
The burden is on you to assure your licenses are renewed on time. Renewal notices are sent mostly as a courtesy. If your guard card is about to expire, you can print a renewal form and send it to Sacramento by clicking here. If you do not have a firearm permit, you can renew it online by registering here.
8. Do I have to take the Skills Training Course for Security?
If your guard card was issued prior to July 1, 2004, you only need to take an 8 hour refresher course (which we offer). If it was issued AFTER July 1, 2004, you need to complete 16 hours of "required" courses within 30 days of receipt of your card or start of employment then you have to complete another 16 hours within 6 months of receipt or start of work. If you're not sure if you're in compliance or if you know you are not in compliance, stop by our facility. We will advise you what training you need.
9. Are there special requirements or exemptions for law enforcement officers?
There are many rules governing law enforcement officers. To see a list and FAQ on law enforcement, click here to be redirected to the BSIS website.
10. Is your staff qualified to teach courses in "security" related subjects?
We are a licensed facility to teach in the areas of public safety and firearms. With that being said, our staff members have extensive law enforcement and/or security experience and training. You will find that some training facilities are licensed to instruct certain subjects, but their instructor(s) may not have any experience in the field. Yes, there are license specific requirements, but some of the instructors do not have the actual job experience. Our staff members do. Not only are we qualified by paper, we have the real life experience to back it up and pass on to the students.
11. Do I need a permit to carry pepper spray?
Yes, if you are working as a security officer. Business & Professions Code 7583.5 states: "Every licensee, qualified manager, or a registered uniformed security guard, who in the course of his or her employment carries tear gas or any other nonlethal chemical agent, shall complete the required course pursuant to Section 12403.5 of the Penal Code". We offer this training. Our instructors are certified as law enforcement instructors.
12. I want to get a permit to carry a firearm but I don't have a guard registration card. Where do I start?
To attend the firearm permit course, you need a valid guard registration card or have completed the training. We conveniently offer guard card classes on some Fridays so that you can knock out all courses and qualifications in 3 days! You can also take the Guard Card class any other day it's offered then take the course later that month.
13. What is the quickest way to get a guard card?
Come into our facility and we'll process your live scan fingerprints and submit your fees online after the course. The average turn around time is 7-10 days but it could take longer.
14. What is the easiest way to get a guard card AND exposed firearm permit?
We recommend that you take the guard card class and firearm class together. If you process your background for both at the same time, it'll save you $$$ in background fees. We'll even mail off your fees for you if you take both courses together. We can complete the process in 3 days.
15. What happens if I fail a course?
Our job is make sure you succeed. If you fail, that means we've failed somewhere. We will take all necessary steps to assure you can pass our courses. In the event that you do fail a course, we do offer remedial training at little to no charge depending on the course. Our instructors will assist you to get you to pass! If you need special accommodations, please call us.
16. I may have some issues in my background. What things can disqualify me for getting a license?
There are numerous violations of law or court orders that can have an effect on obtaining a license. We cannot say for sure what will disqualify you but we may be able to provide little guidance in some areas. Call us and we may be able to assist you.
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