Article Library

In the bustling security industry of California, where demand for trained guards is higher than ever—especially in high-traffic areas like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego—many aspiring professionals wonder if a past mistake could slam the door on their career dreams. The short answer? It’s possible to become a security guard with a criminal record, but it depends on the nature of your crime, how long ago it happened, and whether you qualify for a waiver. As of 2025, the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) oversees all security guard registrations, and while certain convictions can be a roadblock, rehabilitation and transparency often pave the way forward.

If you’re reading this, you’re likely weighing your options after a conviction or arrest. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the rules, potential guard card disqualifications, waiver options, and practical steps to boost your chances. Let’s dive in.

The Basics: How Criminal Records Fit into the Guard Card Process

To work as a security guard in California, you need a BSIS-issued Guard Card (officially a Security Guard Registration). This isn’t optional—it’s required for any paid security work. The application process starts with meeting basic eligibility: being at least 18, completing 40 hours of training (8 initial + 32 continuing education), and passing a background check.

Here’s where your criminal history comes in: Every applicant must submit fingerprints via Live Scan for a criminal background check through the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and FBI. This pulls your full record, including arrests, convictions, probation status, and even dismissed charges in some cases. Expect this step to take 4-6 weeks, but if a conviction flags your app, it could extend to 120 days as it heads to the BSIS Disciplinary Review Committee for review.

The good news? Not every record is a deal-breaker. BSIS evaluates on a case-by-case basis, focusing on whether the offense impacts your fitness to protect people and property.

What Criminal Convictions Serve as BSIS Guard Card Disqualifications?

BSIS doesn’t mince words: Certain crimes scream “no” to security roles because they involve violence, dishonesty, or threats to public safety. Below we break down the possibilities of getting a guard card with a felony, misdemeanor, and more based on type:

Automatic or High-Risk Disqualifiers

• Felonies: Murder, rape, robbery, assault with a deadly weapon, or any violent crime. Sex offenses, especially those against minors, are per se disqualifiers—no waivers allowed.
• Drug-Related Felonies: Convictions for selling or possessing controlled substances, as they tie into moral turpitude and reliability concerns.
• Crimes of Dishonesty: Fraud, theft, embezzlement, or perjury—these erode the trust guards must uphold.

Potential Disqualifiers (Case-by-Case)

• Misdemeanors: Petty theft, vandalism, or DUIs might not auto-deny you, but if they involve moral turpitude (e.g., bribery), expect scrutiny.
• Domestic Violence: Any conviction here can bar you, per state law.
• Active Probation or Parole: You can’t apply while under supervision for a disqualifying offense.
• Outstanding Warrants: These halt processing until resolved.

Minor infractions like traffic tickets? Generally ignored. And remember, juvenile records are often sealed and not considered. If your conviction is expunged under California Penal Code 1203.4, disclose it anyway—BSIS requires honesty, and lying is an automatic denial.

Pro Tip: Check your record’s impact before applying. A criminal history request can give you a preview.

The Waiver Process: Your Second Chance at Eligibility

Denied because of a conviction? Don’t pack it in—waivers are available for many cases, especially if the offense is old or unrelated to security work. Here’s how it works.

1. Eligibility Check: Waivers apply if the crime was committed more than 7 years ago and doesn’t involve violence, sex offenses, or serious dishonesty. For example, a non-violent drug possession from your 20s might qualify; a recent assault won’t.
2. Submit Your Petition: After denial, file a waiver request with BSIS. Include:
   • Court documents and disposition records.
   • Proof of rehabilitation (e.g., completion of rehab programs, steady employment).
   • Letters of recommendation from employers or community leaders.
   • A personal statement explaining the offense and your growth.
3. Review Timeline: The Disciplinary Review Committee meets monthly; expect 60-120 days for a decision. Approval rates hover around 50-70% for eligible cases, based on recent applicant feedback.
4. Appeal a Denial: If the waiver flops, appeal within 30 days with new evidence. Legal aid from organizations like the ACLU or a low-cost attorney can help.

Success stories abound: One applicant with a 10-year-old misdemeanor theft conviction landed their card after submitting volunteer logs from a local shelter. Persistence pays off.

Step-by-Step: Applying to Be a Security Guard with a Criminal Record

Ready to roll the dice? Follow these steps tailored for those with records:

1. Gather Your Docs: Get certified copies of your conviction records from the court clerk.
2. Complete Training: Enroll in BSIS-approved courses (like our 40-hour program here at Practical Defense Systems) to show commitment.
3. Apply Online: Head to the BSIS portal, pay the application fee, and disclose everything upfront.
4. Live Scan: Visit a fingerprinting site. No fee waiver for most, but low-income options exist.
5. Wait and Prepare: Use the time for job shadowing or additional certs like CPR.
6. Follow Up: Track status via BreEZe portal; respond promptly to any committee requests.

Tips to Maximize Your Chances of Landing a Job

• Be Transparent: Hiding a record leads to denial and bans from reapplying.
• Build Rehabilitation Evidence: Volunteer, get clean drug tests, or pursue further education—BSIS loves proof of change.
• Target Entry-Level Roles: Start with non-sensitive sites like retail; armed or executive protection is tougher with records.
• Network: Join forums or local BSIS events for insider advice.

Wrapping Up: A Fresh Start Is Within Reach

A criminal record doesn’t have to define your future in California’s multi-billion dollar security sector, where guards earn $20-35/hour on average. With the time on your side, and a solid waiver pitch, thousands secure their Guard Cards annually. So, don’t give up.