Security Guard Requirements in California

In the state of California, security guards are licensed and regulated by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) under the Department of Consumer Affairs. You must complete a pre-licensing course to get your security guard license (guard card). This course is generally referred to as “guard card class” in California. The guard card course is an 8 hour long class and can be finished in a day. The course has two components. (1) Powers to Arrest and (2) Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD).

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I am currently working as a security guard. Will this job help me to become a police officer?

Answer: No, it is actually the other way around. If you’ve experience as a police officer, you might be able to command a better starting position and better salary as a security officer. To become a police officer, you have to go through the training and qualify after passing the test. Read more Security Guard FAQs

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Is it possible to get hired directly as a security guard without going through a security company?

Answer: Many small firms might hire a security guard through word-of-mouth recommendation or through someone they know. However it is in your best interests to go through a company. Because in case something happens on your watch, you will not be solely held responsible for it. Also you will have an accepted set protocol to follow, and you will have the evidence to back up your claim, like logging in regularly and giving the all-clear. In case you’re working directly and not through an agency, there might not be any back up records, other than what the employer owns, and it will be his word against yours. Read more Security Guard FAQs

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What are the requirements for becoming a hotel security guard? I am specifically interested in Marriot, since there is a Marriot near where I live.

Answer: As with any security guard job, a hotel security guard too has to be fit, observant, vigilant, courteous to guests, helpful in case of any issues, and be willing to lend a helping hand at any time to the guests or other staff. A hotel security guard job also requires you to be personally groomed and presentable at all times. The Marriot Hotel requires that their security personnel be capable of standing, sitting or walking for long hours, as you might need to be guarding your post, be at your desk or patrol the grounds. They also need you to be capable of carrying at least ten pounds of luggage or equipment without extra assistance. This means you should be reasonably fit. It is preferable if you have CPR training, as you can help people in case of medical emergencies. Read more Security Guard FAQs

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What career growth options are there for a security guard?

Alternate Questions: Are there better career paths after working as a security guard? Answer: If the security guard job interests you, you can get certified and also get some weapons training. This will help you to land better paying jobs like armed escorts for transporting documents, art, jewelry or cash. You might also decide to sign up for the Reserve police force, which will help you. If you can, you can even start your own security company or design a security device like an alarm or a camera. You can also moonlight as security to celebrities, if you’re really good at your job. Read more Security Guard FAQs

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I recently got the job of a security guard at a local retail store. What is the appropriate way for a retail store security guard to deal with a shop lifting incident?

Answer: First, wait till the customer tries to exit the store; once they are out, immediately raise the alarm, though in most stores these days, it will be automatic when the tag isn’t removed at the checkout. Then follow the customer out, and quietly approach them and appraise them that their shop lifting has been caught on camera. Nine out of ten shoplifters do it for the thrill, and will quietly pay for the merchandise. Very few people will try to run with the items and risk the police being called. Read more Security Guard FAQs

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Can I become a security guard after being charged with a felony or a misdemeanor?

Answer: Yes, in most cases. But the specifics will wary from state to state. If one person has a felony record, they can apply to their appropriate state agency for a rehabilitation certificate. The following seven states offer certificates of rehabilitation or Certificate of Clemency or other similar methods for removing occupational restrictions due to felony or misdemeanor records: Arizona California Florida: Security Guard License after a felony in Florida State Illinois Nevada New Jersey: Security Guard (SORA) License after a felony in New Jersey State New York: Security Guard License after a felony in New York State Virginia: Security Guard Job after a felony in Virginia State In the other states they will make the determination based on the type of felony, how long ago was it happened etc. A Certificate of Rehabilitation is a court certified document declaring that a person is now obeying the laws of the land and is demonstrating good moral character.…

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Do I need to have a good physique (height and weight) to become a security guard?

Answer: There is no prescribed height or weight to becoming a security guard. You need to be agile and fit. This is important if you have to chase someone or help support someone. In such cases, height can be an advantage, but it is not a requirement. The ability to think on your feet and quick reflexes are more important than anything else. Read more Security Guard FAQs

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What are the requirements for becoming an armored car security guard in Virginia?

Answer: If you’re trying for an armored car security guard position in a state like Virginia, you need to have valid Firearms Endorsement from the State, be a US citizen or legal alien resident and be at least 18 years of age. You also need to possess a valid driver’s license, and should’ve undergone at least 28-31 hours of armored car personnel training, with certificates for 03E, 07E and 08E wherever applicable. You need to submit the certificates and your fingerprints for getting your background verified, and to obtain the required Private Security Registration with the department. Read more Security Guard FAQs

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