Looking to obtain your Power to Arrest certificate in California? If you’re planning to become a security guard, completing the required Power to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force training is one of the first steps toward obtaining your California guard card.
The California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) requires security guard applicants to complete an initial 8-hour training course covering Power to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force before their registration can be issued.
This training teaches future security guards about their legal authority, limitations, responsibilities, de-escalation techniques, and appropriate responses to security-related situations.
At A & C Security Group, we offer California guard card training in Los Angeles, with walk-in classes available Monday through Saturday.
In this guide, you’ll learn what a Power to Arrest certificate is, how to obtain one, what the course covers, the 2026 BSIS requirements, and what happens after completing your training.
What Is a Power to Arrest Certificate?
A Power to Arrest certificate is a training completion document demonstrating that an individual has successfully completed the required Power to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force instruction.
One of the most important subjects covered during Power to Arrest training is understanding when a private security guard may legally make an arrest. Security guards do not have the same authority as police officers, and making an unlawful arrest can result in serious consequences. Learn more in our guide, Can Security Guards Arrest Someone in California?
This training is part of the initial requirements for obtaining a California security guard registration, commonly called a guard card.
The course introduces students to the legal authority and limitations of private security personnel.
Unlike sworn law enforcement officers, private security guards do not have general police powers.
Security guards must understand the circumstances under which a private person may lawfully make an arrest, the limitations on searches and seizures, and the potential consequences of unlawful actions.
What Does the Certificate Prove?
A Power to Arrest certificate demonstrates that the student has completed the applicable required training.
It may be requested by:
- California security guard employers.
- Private patrol operators.
- BSIS during a licensing review.
- Other authorized parties verifying training compliance.
Important: A Power to Arrest certificate is not a California guard card.
The certificate documents training completion, while the guard card is the registration issued by BSIS.
Is Power to Arrest Training Required in California?
Yes. California requires applicants for security guard registration to complete Power to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force training.
The requirements are established under California Business and Professions Code Sections 7583.6 and 7583.7 and applicable BSIS regulations.
The training is intended to help applicants understand their responsibilities before performing regulated security guard duties.
Power to Arrest is only one part of California’s security guard training requirements. Applicants must also complete Appropriate Use of Force instruction and additional security officer skills training. For a complete overview, read our guide to security guard training requirements in California.
Who Needs Power to Arrest Certification?
The initial training requirement generally applies to individuals seeking their first California security guard registration.
This includes applicants interested in positions such as:
- Unarmed security guards.
- Retail security officers.
- Residential security guards.
- Commercial property security personnel.
- Event security guards.
- Security patrol officers.
Individuals pursuing armed security positions must also meet additional licensing and training requirements.
Certain exemptions and alternative statutory provisions may apply, so applicants should verify their individual requirements with BSIS.
How Many Hours Is Power to Arrest Training?
California’s required initial training consists of 8 hours, divided into two subjects.
| Required Course | Training Hours |
|---|---|
| Power to Arrest | 3 hours |
| Appropriate Use of Force | 5 hours |
| Total Initial Training | 8 hours |
These courses form the initial training requirement for California security guard registration.
Part 1: Power to Arrest — 3 Hours
The three-hour Power to Arrest portion introduces students to the legal authority and limitations of security personnel.
Topics include:
- Responsibilities and ethics related to private-person arrests.
- Legal limitations on arrest authority.
- The relationship between security guards and law enforcement.
- Restrictions on searches and seizures.
- Criminal and civil liability.
- Trespassing laws.
- Communication and professional conduct.
- Emergency response.
- Security officer safety.
Understanding these subjects helps future guards recognize situations that require observation, reporting, de-escalation, or contacting law enforcement.
Part 2: Appropriate Use of Force — 5 Hours
The five-hour Appropriate Use of Force portion focuses on legal standards, judgment, and methods for preventing or responding to escalating situations.
Topics include:
- Legal standards governing the use of force.
- Objectively reasonable force.
- De-escalation techniques.
- Interpersonal communication.
- Duty to intercede.
- Incident reporting responsibilities.
- Implicit and explicit bias.
- Cultural competency.
- Scenario-based decision-making.
This training emphasizes the importance of avoiding unnecessary confrontation and understanding the legal consequences of using force.
New Power to Arrest Training Requirements for 2026
California implemented important changes to its initial security guard training requirements effective January 1, 2026.
Senate Bill 652 established additional requirements concerning when the initial training must be completed and how it must be instructed and certified.
1. Training Must Be Completed Within Six Months Before Applying
Security guard applicants must successfully complete their Power to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force training within the six months preceding submission of their initial registration application.
For example, if you complete your initial training in February 2026, you should submit your application within the applicable six-month period.
Applicants who wait too long may need to repeat the training to satisfy the requirement.
2. One Instructor Must Teach and Certify the Entire Course
The combined Power to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force training must be instructed in its entirety and certified by one instructor.
Applicants should make sure their training provider follows the applicable BSIS requirements.
3. Training Must Meet Current BSIS Standards
Training providers must follow the applicable curriculum, instructional requirements, and certification procedures.
Before enrolling, confirm that your training provider offers instruction meeting the current California requirements.
Why does this matter?
Completing outdated or improperly administered training may create problems when applying for your California guard card.
Can You Take Power to Arrest Training Online in California?
California permits certain security guard training subjects to be delivered through approved instructional formats.
However, the Appropriate Use of Force curriculum contains components that must be completed in person through traditional classroom instruction.
These include specified instruction involving objectively reasonable force, use-of-force scenarios, and de-escalation.
Therefore, applicants should not assume that an entirely self-paced online course satisfies all current initial training requirements.
What About Online Guard Card Training?
Some training providers advertise online Power to Arrest courses.
Before enrolling, verify:
- Whether the course includes the required Appropriate Use of Force instruction.
- How mandatory in-person components are delivered.
- Whether the provider complies with the single-instructor requirement.
- Whether the certificate meets current BSIS standards.
- Whether the course can be completed within your application timeline.
At A & C Security Group, students can attend in-person initial guard card training at our Los Angeles location.
How Hard Is the Power to Arrest Exam?
California’s initial Power to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force training includes required testing.
BSIS regulations require students to demonstrate mastery of the required course material, including achieving the applicable 100% examination passing standard.
Students should review the training materials carefully and ask their instructor about any concepts they do not understand.
What Topics Should You Study?
Important subjects include:
- Legal authority to make an arrest.
- Limitations on private security personnel.
- Criminal and civil liability.
- Trespassing laws.
- Appropriate use of force.
- De-escalation.
- Communication.
- Professional ethics.
- Incident reporting.
The purpose of the examination is to confirm that students understand the responsibilities and limitations associated with security work.
How Much Does Power to Arrest Training Cost in California?
Training prices vary by provider, location, and included services.
At A & C Security Group, we offer several training packages for California guard card applicants.
8-Hour Initial Guard Card Training — $125
Best for: First-time applicants who need the initial Power to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force training.
Includes:
- Three-hour Power to Arrest instruction.
- Five-hour Appropriate Use of Force instruction.
- Required course examination.
- Certificate of completion upon successful completion.
Starter Guard Card Package — $329
Best for: Applicants who want training, fingerprinting, and application assistance together.
Includes:
- Initial 8-hour guard card training.
- Live Scan fingerprinting.
- BSIS guard card application assistance.
- Applicable training certificate.
All-in-One 40-Hour Guard Card Package — $515
Best for: Applicants who want to complete their initial training and additional security officer skills training.
Includes:
- Initial 8-hour training.
- Module B — 16 hours.
- Module C — 16 hours.
- Live Scan fingerprinting.
- BSIS application assistance.
- Applicable training certificates.
Confirm current package inclusions and applicable government fees before enrolling.
How to Get Your Power to Arrest Certificate in California
Obtaining your certificate involves several steps.
Step 1: Choose an Eligible Training Provider
Select a training provider authorized to administer the required California security guard training.
Confirm that the course meets current BSIS requirements.
Step 2: Register for the 8-Hour Course
Enroll in the combined Power to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force training.
At A & C Security Group, students can schedule training online or attend during our designated walk-in check-in period.
Step 3: Complete the Required Instruction
Attend the required training and participate in the applicable classroom activities.
The course covers legal authority, professional responsibilities, de-escalation, and appropriate use of force.
Step 4: Pass the Required Examination
Successfully complete the required course testing.
Make sure you understand the material before completing the examination.
Step 5: Receive Your Certificate
After successfully completing the training requirements, you will receive the applicable certificate of completion.
At A & C Security Group, eligible students can receive their training certificate the same day.
Step 6: Keep Your Certificate
Retain a copy of your certificate for your records.
Your employer may request proof of training completion, and you may need the document for future licensing or employment verification.
Does a Power to Arrest Certificate Mean You Have a Guard Card?
No.
This is one of the most important distinctions for first-time applicants.
A Power to Arrest certificate confirms completion of the required initial training.
A California guard card is the official security guard registration issued by BSIS.
Completing the course does not automatically register you as a security guard.
You must still complete the applicable application requirements.
Security guards may receive several certificates throughout their training, including initial Power to Arrest certification, additional security officer skills training certificates, and annual continuing education certificates. Understanding the different types of security guard certificates can help you maintain accurate training records and meet employer requirements.
What Happens After Power to Arrest Training?
Once you’ve completed your initial training, the next steps generally involve fingerprinting, submitting your application, and completing additional security officer skills training.
Step 1: Complete Live Scan Fingerprinting
California guard card applicants must undergo criminal history background checks through the California Department of Justice and FBI.
Live Scan electronically submits fingerprints for processing.
Use the correct BSIS security guard Live Scan form.
Step 2: Submit Your Guard Card Application
Applicants can submit their California security guard registration application through the state’s BreEZe licensing system.
Carefully review your application information before submitting it.
A & C Security Group also offers application assistance for individuals who need help navigating the process.
Step 3: Pay the Required Fees
Applicants must pay the applicable BSIS registration fee and fingerprint processing fees.
These fees are separate from training costs unless specifically included in a package.
Step 4: Wait for BSIS Approval
BSIS reviews the application and required background check information.
Application processing times vary.
Completing training does not guarantee registration approval.
Step 5: Complete Your Additional Security Guard Training
California requires an additional 32 hours of security officer skills training.
These hours are separate from the initial eight-hour course.
What Are Modules B and C in California Security Guard Training?
At A & C Security Group, the additional 32 hours of security officer skills training are organized into two programs.
After completing your initial 8-hour course, you’ll also need to satisfy California’s additional security officer skills training requirements. Our guide to 32-hour security guard training explains Modules B and C, what each program covers, and how these courses fit into the state’s 40-hour training requirements.
Module B — 16 Hours
Module B covers the first portion of additional security officer skills training.
Module C — 16 Hours
Module C covers the remaining portion of additional security officer skills training.
Together, these courses account for the additional 32 hours required under California’s training framework.
When Must the Additional 32 Hours Be Completed?
California requires the additional security officer skills training to be completed within the first six months of registration.
The applicable statutory training schedule also includes a 16-hour requirement within the first 30 days of initial registration.
Applicants and employers should ensure that all required training is completed within the applicable deadlines and that certificates are properly retained.
Is Annual Training Required?
Yes.
Registered California security guards must complete eight hours of continuing training annually.
This includes the required review of Appropriate Use of Force subjects.
Can You Work With Only a Power to Arrest Certificate?
No.
A Power to Arrest certificate alone does not authorize an individual to perform security guard duties that require BSIS registration.
Applicants must receive the required security guard registration before beginning regulated security guard work.
Once BSIS has approved and issued the registration, California permits certain registrants to work while waiting for their physical guard card to arrive, provided they carry the required proof of approval and valid identification.
An application that is still pending is not the same as an approved registration.
Where Can You Get Power to Arrest Training in Los Angeles?
A & C Security Group offers initial California guard card training at our Los Angeles training center.
A & C Security Group
Address: 1605 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 850, Los Angeles, CA 90015
Phone: 877-714-8701
Hours: Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Walk-In Training Check-In: 10:00 AM–10:30 AM
Our office is located on the eighth floor of the Curacao building.
Students can register online or visit during the designated walk-in check-in period.
We welcome applicants from Downtown Los Angeles, Koreatown, Pico-Union, Westlake, Hollywood, and surrounding communities.
If you’re searching for convenient guard card training in Los Angeles, A & C Security Group offers in-person classes, Live Scan fingerprinting, and application assistance. Walk-ins are welcome Monday through Saturday, with training check-in from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM.
Why Train With A & C Security Group?
Students choose our training center for several reasons:
- In-person guard card training.
- Monday–Saturday walk-in availability.
- Same-day certificates upon successful completion.
- Live Scan fingerprinting services.
- BSIS application assistance.
- Initial and additional security guard training options.
- Convenient Los Angeles location.
Our goal is to help applicants understand the requirements and complete their training efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions About Power to Arrest Certification
What is a Power to Arrest certificate?
A Power to Arrest certificate is a document confirming that an individual successfully completed the required California Power to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force training.
Is Power to Arrest training required for a California guard card?
Yes. California requires applicants to complete the applicable initial Power to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force training before their security guard registration can be issued.
How many hours is Power to Arrest training?
The combined initial course is eight hours: three hours of Power to Arrest and five hours of Appropriate Use of Force.
Can I complete Power to Arrest training in one day?
Yes. The eight-hour initial training can be completed during an eligible one-day training session.
How much does Power to Arrest training cost?
At A & C Security Group, initial eight-hour training costs $125.
Can I take Power to Arrest training online?
Certain training components may be delivered through permitted instructional formats, but the Appropriate Use of Force curriculum includes mandatory in-person instruction. Confirm that your provider meets all current BSIS requirements.
Does a Power to Arrest certificate expire?
For initial California security guard registration applications submitted on or after January 1, 2026, the required training must have been completed within the preceding six months. This is an application recency requirement, not a universal expiration date for every previously issued training certificate.
Do I need a Power to Arrest certificate before applying for a guard card?
The required initial training must be successfully completed within the applicable period before the application is submitted, and BSIS requires the training for registration issuance.
Is the Power to Arrest certificate the same as a guard card?
No. The certificate documents training completion. The guard card is the official registration issued by BSIS.
Do I need additional training after receiving my guard card?
Yes. California requires an additional 32 hours of security officer skills training, along with eight hours of annual continuing training.
Can I work while waiting for my guard card?
You cannot perform duties requiring registration solely because you’ve completed training or submitted an application. Once BSIS issues your registration, applicable rules may permit you to work before the physical card arrives if you carry the required documentation.
Do I need Power to Arrest training to become an armed security guard?
Individuals performing registered armed security guard duties must satisfy the applicable guard card training requirements and obtain the required BSIS Exposed Firearms Permit. Other qualifying BSIS license types may have different credential pathways.
Get Your Power to Arrest Certificate With A & C Security Group
Ready to begin your California security guard training?
A & C Security Group offers the required initial Power to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force training at our Los Angeles training center.
Whether you need only the initial eight-hour course or want a complete package with Live Scan and application assistance, we have options to help you get started.
Choose Your Training Package
8-Hour Initial Training — $125
Starter Package — $329
All-in-One 40-Hour Training — $515
ENROLL IN CALIFORNIA GUARD CARD TRAINING →
Visit Our Los Angeles Training Center
A & C Security Group
1605 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 850
Los Angeles, CA 90015
Phone: 877-714-8701
Walk-In Check-In: Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–10:30 AM
Complete your training, receive your certificate upon successful completion, and take the next step toward your California security guard registration.