Becoming a security guard in Los Angeles requires fulfilling specific requirements and following a series of steps. Security guards are responsible for protecting property and people, preventing criminal activity, and responding to emergencies. If you are interested in pursuing a career in security, here is a step-by-step guide to help you become a security guard in Los Angeles.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
Before you can become a security guard in Los Angeles, you must meet the basic requirements. You must be at least 18 years old, possess a high school diploma or GED, and be a U.S. citizen or legal resident. Additionally, you cannot have any felony convictions or misdemeanor convictions related to theft or violence.
Step 2: Obtain Required Training
All security guards in Los Angeles must complete required training before they can obtain a license. The California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) requires a minimum of 40 hours of training for unarmed security guards and 54 hours of training for armed security guards. The training covers topics such as power to arrest, terrorism awareness, communication skills, and handling difficult people.
Step 3: Apply for a Guard Card
Once you have completed the required training, you can apply for a guard card from the BSIS. The guard card is a license that allows you to work as a security guard in California. To apply, you must submit an application and pay a fee. You will also need to provide a fingerprint scan, pass a criminal background check, and provide proof of completing the required training.
Step 4: Find a Job
With your guard card in hand, you can start looking for a job as a security guard in Los Angeles. Many security guard companies offer employment opportunities, and you can also search job boards and classifieds for security guard positions. It’s important to research companies and positions carefully to find the right fit for you.
Step 5: Obtain Additional Certifications
Some security guard positions require additional certifications. For example, if you are interested in working in a hospital or healthcare setting, you may need to obtain a certification in CPR or first aid. Additionally, if you plan to work as an armed security guard, you will need to obtain a firearms permit from the BSIS.
Step 6: Maintain Your License
Once you obtain your guard card, you must renew it every two years. To renew your license, you must complete an eight-hour training course and submit a renewal application. You must also maintain a clean criminal record and meet any additional certification requirements for your position.
Step 7: Continue Your Education and Training
To stay current in your field and advance your career, it’s important to continue your education and training. Many security guard companies offer ongoing training opportunities, and you can also attend conferences and seminars to learn about the latest industry trends and best practices.
In conclusion, becoming a security guard in Los Angeles requires fulfilling specific requirements, completing required training, obtaining a guard card, finding a job, obtaining additional certifications, maintaining your license, and continuing your education and training. By following these steps, you can start a career in security and help keep people and property safe in Los Angeles
To become a security guard in Los Angeles, it is essential to complete the required training. The California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) sets the minimum training requirements for security guards in the state.
Unarmed Security Guard Training:
For unarmed security guard training, you must complete a 40-hour course that covers the following topics:
- Powers to arrest
- Communication skills
- Observation and documentation
- Public relations
- Liability and legal aspects
- Handling difficult people and situations
- Workplace violence
Many training providers offer this course, including private security training schools, community colleges, and vocational schools. The BSIS provides a list of approved training providers on its website, and it’s essential to select a reputable training provider.
Armed Security Guard Training:
If you plan to work as an armed security guard in Los Angeles, you must complete a 54-hour course that covers both unarmed security guard training and firearms training. This course includes the following topics:
- Powers to arrest
- Communication skills
- Observation and documentation
- Public relations
- Liability and legal aspects
- Handling difficult people and situations
- Workplace violence
- Firearms safety
- Handling and firing techniques
- Legal and ethical issues related to the use of firearms
To enroll in this course, you must first complete the basic unarmed security guard training. Additionally, you must be at least 21 years old, have no felony convictions, and pass a criminal background check.
Again, many training providers offer this course, including private security training schools, community colleges, and vocational schools. It’s crucial to select a reputable training provider that offers quality instruction.
To become a security guard in Los Angeles, you must complete the required training and obtain a guard card from the BSIS. This requires completing a 40-hour training course for unarmed security guards and a 54-hour course for armed security guards.
You can find approved training providers by visiting the BSIS website, where you can access a list of training schools and instructors. Additionally, you can ask for recommendations from other security guards or professionals in the industry.
It’s essential to invest in quality training to develop the skills and knowledge needed to perform your job effectively and safely. Completing the required training is just the beginning of your career as a security guard. Continuing education and training can help you stay current in your field and advance your career.
If you are interested in pursuing a career as a security guard in Los Angeles, it’s essential to select a reputable security guard company that values its employees and provides quality training.
VP Security Guards is a leading security guard company in Los Angeles that hires only the best of the best security guards. They understand that providing quality security services requires highly trained and skilled professionals.
VP Security Guards provides unparalleled training to its security guards, ensuring that they have the knowledge and skills to perform their job effectively and safely. They offer both online and in-person training programs that cover a wide range of topics, including:
- Customer service
- Conflict resolution
- Communication skills
- Emergency response
- Crisis management
- Risk assessment
- Crowd control
- First aid and CPR
VP Security Guards also provides on-the-job training and mentoring to its security guards, allowing them to develop their skills and advance their careers.
If you are looking for a security guard company that values its employees and provides quality training, VP Security Guards is an excellent choice. They hire only the best of the best security guards and provide unparalleled training to ensure that their employees have the knowledge and skills needed to perform their job effectively and safely.
By selecting a reputable security guard company that provides quality training, you can develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in your career as a security guard. With the right training and support, you can help keep people and property safe in Los Angeles and make a meaningful contribution to your community.
