How to Get a Guard Card in San Jose
The term "Guard Card" is shorthand for the licence granted by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services that allows one to be hired as a contract security guard in the state of California. The Department of Consumer Affairs defines this position as, "Any person employed by a licensed private patrol operator who provides services as a security guard." In order to obtain the legal certification necessary to become a security officer, you must undergo both registration and training.
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Things You'll Need
- Valid photo identification
- 102 dollars
- Valid credit card
- Criminal history background check
- Security guard application form
- "Live Scan" form
Instructions
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Contact either a private patrol operator or a Bureau-certified training facility to begin the eight-hour "Power to Arrest" training and examination. The closest certified training facility for San Jose is the Silver Creek Security Academy located at 440 North First Street, Suite 110. Alternatively, a private patrol operator can initiate the coursework through any prospective employer.
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Submit your security guard application on the BSIS website (see Resources). Pay the $51 fee with your credit card when prompted. This fee covers the initial application and online convenience fee.
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Submit your fingerprints to the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services by using "Live Scan." Download the Live Scan form from the BSIS website (see Resources). Fill out the form and take it to any of several "Live Scan" sites in San Jose. To find the "Live Scan" site closest to your home address, use the list provided in Resources.
The total fee for "Live Scan" fingerprinting service, to be paid at the "Live Scan" site is $51. Your registration will be processed within 10 to 15 days of receiving both your application form and "Live Scan" form.
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Verify your registration by logging onto the BSIS website and choosing "Verify a License." Enter your personal information and submit to receive confirmation. Print a hard copy of this page from your web browser and keep this with you. Though a hard copy of your registration will be mailed to you, you may now be placed on assignment as long as you have a valid photo identification and the web printout of the BSIS confirmation.
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Tips & Warnings
If your Security Guard registration is denied, you are allowed to reapply one year from the initial application date.
In order to verify the receipt of your application, to request a hard copy of the registration forms or for any other questions, you may contact the California BSIS at 916-322-4000.
Once you've obtained your registration, it will be valid in the state of California for two years from the date issued.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit security guard image by Joyce Wilkes from Fotolia.com
