Yes. Veterans can become security guards in California and may even receive special assistance through the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) Veterans Come First Program.
Many military veterans transition successfully into security careers because they already possess valuable skills such as discipline, situational awareness, communication, professionalism, and experience working in structured environments. These skills often translate well into the private security industry.
Why Veterans Make Excellent Security Guards
Military service often develops skills that employers value in the security industry.
These skills may include:
- Leadership
- Attention to detail
- Observation skills
- Emergency response experience
- Report writing
- Teamwork
- Professional communication
- Following procedures and protocols
Many security companies actively recruit veterans because of their training, reliability, and experience working in high-responsibility environments.
California’s Veterans Come First Program
The Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) offers the Veterans Come First Program to assist veterans transitioning into civilian employment.
The program provides:
- Priority processing for veteran applicants
- Direct contact information for veteran support
- Assistance using qualifying military education and experience toward licensing requirements when permitted by law
- Individual guidance throughout the licensing process when needed
The goal is to help veterans move more quickly from military service into civilian careers.
What Does a Veteran Need to Become a Security Guard?
Veterans generally follow the same basic process as other applicants seeking a California Security Guard Registration.
Step 1: Complete Power to Arrest Training
Applicants must complete the required 8-hour Power to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force training before applying for a Guard Card.
Step 2: Submit a Guard Card Application
The application is submitted through the California BreEZe licensing system.
Step 3: Complete Live Scan Fingerprinting
Applicants must submit fingerprints through Live Scan so the California Department of Justice and FBI can conduct a background check.
Step 4: Wait for Application Approval
Once BSIS receives the application and background check results, the application will be reviewed and processed. Veterans may qualify for priority processing through the Veterans Come First Program.
Can Military Experience Help With Licensing?
Possibly.
BSIS may review a veteran’s DD214 and military education or training records to determine whether certain military experience can be applied toward licensing requirements when allowed by law.
Veterans interested in using military training should contact BSIS and provide documentation of their military experience and education.
Does Military Firearms Training Replace a BSIS Firearms Permit?
No.
Even if a veteran has extensive military firearms experience, California still requires applicants to complete the state-required training and qualification process to obtain a BSIS Firearms Permit for armed security work. Military firearms qualifications do not automatically replace California licensing requirements.
Security Careers That May Interest Veterans
Many veterans begin as security guards and later move into specialized security positions.
Examples include:
- Security Officer
- Armed Security Officer
- Corporate Security Officer
- Executive Protection Agent
- Loss Prevention Specialist
- Security Supervisor
- Security Manager
- Government Contractor Security Positions
Military experience may provide an advantage when applying for certain security-related positions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a veteran become a security guard in California?
Yes. Veterans may apply for a California Guard Card and work as security guards if they meet BSIS requirements. Veterans may also receive assistance through the Veterans Come First Program.
Do veterans still need a Guard Card?
Yes. Veterans generally must obtain a valid California Security Guard Registration to work as a security guard in California.
Can military experience count toward licensing requirements?
In some cases. BSIS may review military education and experience to determine whether it can be applied toward licensing requirements.
Do veterans get faster application processing?
Veterans may qualify for priority processing through the BSIS Veterans Come First Program.
Do veterans need Live Scan fingerprinting?
Yes. Guard Card applicants must complete Live Scan fingerprinting and pass the required background check process.
Start Your Security Career After Military Service
Transitioning from military service to a civilian career can be challenging, but the security industry offers opportunities that align well with the skills many veterans already possess.
If you’re a veteran interested in becoming a security guard in California, completing your Guard Card training is often the first step. Understanding the licensing process, training requirements, and veteran resources available through BSIS can help make your transition into the security industry smoother and more successful.