Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Public Safety
Security Guards Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for security guards in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Security Guards in California
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
- 2
O Receive baton training from a Bureau certified baton training facility and instructor.
- 3
Initial Fee (paid to BSIS) - $60.
- 4
Renewal Fee - $40.
- 5
The training facility charges a fee for training.
- 6
Permit is issued by BSIS upon submitting a completed application and meeting all requirements.
- 7
Permit holders need to complete the training specified in BPC Section 7585.9 within six months prior to the expiration date.
Continuing education and program notes
- certified baton training facility and instructor
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Bureau of Security and Investigative Services
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$43,930 median (14% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#7 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (5)
- 1. Meet California eligibility requirements for Security Guards licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (O Receive baton training from a Bureau certified baton training facility and instructor.).
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (Permit is issued by BSIS upon submitting a completed application and meeting all requirements.).
- 5. Submit the application to Department of Consumer Affairs~Bureau of Security and Investigative Services and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of $43,930, Security Guardss in California earn 14% above the national median of $38,370. California ranks #7 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$43,930Hourly estimate
$21.1214% above national median
Difference: +$5,560
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSecurity Guards Salary Ranking
#7 of 50 statesfor Security Guards median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | $48,620 |
| #2 | Washington | $48,010 |
| #3 | Colorado | $46,080 |
| #4 | Minnesota | $46,020 |
| #5 | Massachusetts | $44,950 |
Nearby States Comparison
Security Guards licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $43,930 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Oregon | $43,680 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Nevada | $38,340 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 5-21 years |
| Arizona | $38,560 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Consumer Affairs • Bureau of Security and Investigative Services
PO Box 989002, West Sacramento, CA, 95798
Phone: 9163224000
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $95,840 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Firefighter | $83,400 | Varies by state board | 1 month |
| Police Officer | $115,400 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $77,640 | Varies by state board | 1-2 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Security Guards in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Security Guards salary in California?
The median annual salary for Security Guardss in California is $43,930. Salaries range from $36,180 (10th percentile) to $59,320 (90th percentile).
How does the Security Guards salary in California compare to the national average?
Security Guardss in California earn 14% above the national median of $38,370, with a state median of $43,930.
How many Security Guardss work in California?
California employs approximately 185,510 Security Guardss according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Security Guards license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Security Guardss in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Bureau of Security and Investigative Services. Review agency details at https://www.bsis.ca.gov/.
How often do you renew a Security Guards license in California?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.