Bureau of Security and Investigative Services

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Online Licensing For Security Guards Fact Sheet

What is Online Licensing?

This is a system that enables unarmed security guards to submit initial license applications, renew expiring licenses, request a duplicate license and make address changes over the Internet.

Remember, initial applicants must have their fingerprints submitted to the California Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation through Live Scan immediately after applying online. Live Scan forms and a list of Live Scan sites are available at the Bureau's Web site at http://www.bsis.ca.gov/forms_pubs/livescan/.

Why is this important?

Temporary Guard cards will be eliminated effective January 1, 2003, under a new law passed by the Legislature and signed by Governor Davis. Once the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services has received the online application and criminal history clearances, the cleared security guard will appear on the Bureau's Web site. A screen printout from the Web site can be used as an interim Security Guard registration and the Security Guard may be placed on assignment. The actual Security Guard registration will be mailed to the applicant and should be received in 7 to 10 working days.

How do I find Online Licensing?

Go to the Bureau's Web site at http://www.bsis.ca.gov/online_services/online_licensing.shtml.

What do I need to use the system?

If you are a first-time user, you will need your Social Security number, a valid credit card (Master Card, Visa or Discover) to pay fees, and an e-mail address.

Note: Debit cards are not accepted.

Who handles this program?

Online licensing is a joint project of the Department of Consumer Affairs and the Department of General Services' Statewide eGovernment Initiatives Office. Security Guards are one of seven professions served by the online program.

What are the browser requirements?

You will need Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0 (or newer) or Netscape 4.7 (or newer) to use the system. AOL users, we recommend AOL 6.0 or newer. Please consult AOL User Browser Requirements at the eBusiness Center site for more details.

What if I need help?

If you are experiencing technical problems using the system you can email or call us at (916) 574-8020.

For licensing information, please contact the Bureau at (916) 322-4000.