If you are a registered security guard in California, you already possess the foundational training and licensing required to protect people and property. Advancing to armed security is a natural next step—offering higher pay, increased responsibility, and access to more specialized assignments.
In California, armed security guards are regulated by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). Carrying a firearm while performing private security duties requires an Exposed Firearm Permit, which is issued in addition to your Guard Card.
Below is a clear, accurate, and cost-efficient step-by-step guide to meeting California state requirements for armed security.
Phase 1: Mandatory Prerequisites
Before applying for an Exposed Firearm Permit, you must meet the following BSIS requirements:
| Requirement | Unarmed Guard Card | Exposed Firearm Permit |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years old | 21 years old |
| Work Status | Legal eligibility to work in the U.S. | U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident legally eligible to possess firearms |
| Required Credential | BSIS Guard Card | Valid BSIS Guard Card required |
| Background | DOJ/FBI background check | Must not be legally prohibited from firearm possession |
You must already possess a valid, current BSIS Security Guard Registration (Guard Card) before beginning the armed permit process.
Phase 2: Psychological Assessment (Required First)
Effective January 1, 2022, all applicants for an Exposed Firearm Permit must successfully complete a BSIS-mandated psychological assessment before submitting a firearm permit application.
Step 1: Pass the BSIS Firearms Psychological Assessment
- Assessment Used: Sixteen Personality Factor Questionnaire (16PF)
- Administrator: PSI Services LLC
- Format: Computer-based exam at authorized PSI testing centers
- Fee: Paid directly to PSI at the time of scheduling
A passing result is recorded as “Demonstrate.”
Why This Step Should Be Completed First
- A “Did Not Demonstrate” result requires a mandatory 180-day waiting period before retesting
- Firearms training certifications may expire during that waiting period, forcing the entire course to be repeated
Completing the psychological assessment first protects both time and money.
Phase 3: BSIS-Approved Firearms Training (In-Person Only)
After receiving a passing psychological assessment, you may proceed with firearms training.
Step 2: Complete the 14-Hour Firearms Course
The BSIS Exposed Firearm Permit course must be completed in person. Online or remote completion is not permitted.
Training must be conducted through a BSIS-approved firearms instructor and facility and consists of:
- 8 hours of in-person classroom instruction covering firearm safety, use-of-force law, legal and ethical responsibilities, and firearms terminology
- 6 hours of live-fire range training with instructor supervision
Step 3: Pass Required Exams
- Written examination on legal and safety topics
- Live-fire qualification with each caliber you intend to carry on duty
The permit will only be valid for the caliber or calibers on which you successfully qualify.
Phase 4: Application and Background Check
Step 4: Complete a Firearm Permit Live Scan
The Exposed Firearm Permit requires a separate Live Scan from your Guard Card.
- Use the Firearm Permit Live Scan Request Form
- Pay DOJ and FBI processing fees
- Retain proof of submission
Step 5: Submit Your Application to BSIS
Applications are submitted through the BreEZe online system and must include:
- Exposed Firearm Permit application
- Firearms training certification
- Passing psychological assessment result
- Live Scan submission verification
- Required BSIS fees
You may only carry a firearm on duty when you possess both a valid Guard Card and a valid Exposed Firearm Permit.
Carrying Firearms While Working Armed Security
Exposed vs. Concealed Carry
The BSIS Exposed Firearm Permit is required whenever a firearm is carried while performing private security duties, regardless of whether the firearm is exposed or concealed, or whether the guard is in uniform or plain clothes.
Plain-Clothes Armed Security and Concealed Carry
To work in plain clothes while carrying a concealed firearm, a security officer must possess:
- A valid BSIS Guard Card
- A valid BSIS Exposed Firearm Permit
- And one of the following: a California CCW permit, HR218 authority, or active-duty peace officer status
The BSIS Exposed Firearm Permit alone does not authorize concealed carry.
Matching Permit Requirements
If a guard is carrying a concealed firearm under a California CCW permit while working armed security:
- The specific firearm must be listed on the CCW permit
- The caliber of that firearm must be listed on the BSIS Exposed Firearm Permit
If the permits do not match, the guard is out of compliance.
Phase 5: Maintaining Armed Security Status
Firearm Requalification Every Six Months
- Requalification is required every six months with each listed caliber
- Requalification must occur within the assigned BSIS months
- Missing or failing requalification breaks permit continuity
BSIS does not offer grace periods or corrective options. A lapse renders the permit non-renewable and requires restarting the entire process.
Permit Renewal Every Two Years
Both the Guard Card and Exposed Firearm Permit must be renewed every two years. A firearm permit cannot be renewed if six-month requalification continuity has been broken.
Training Through a BSIS-Licensed Facility
Practical Defense Systems is a state-licensed security officer training facility offering Guard Card training, Exposed Firearm Permit courses, and continuing education. All training is conducted in compliance with current BSIS regulations and California law.
