Wondering what disqualifies you from getting a guard card in California? If you have a felony, misdemeanor, DUI, or other criminal history, you may be concerned about whether the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) will approve your security guard registration.
The good news is that having a criminal record does not automatically mean you cannot get a California guard card.
California law limits when professional licensing agencies can deny applications based on criminal convictions. Depending on the offense, how long ago it occurred, and evidence of rehabilitation, applicants with criminal histories may still qualify.
However, some convictions, licensing violations, and eligibility issues can result in an application being denied.
This guide explains what can disqualify you from obtaining a California guard card, how BSIS background checks work, and what you can do if your application is denied.
What Disqualifies You From Getting a Guard Card in California?
The California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services reviews guard card applications to determine whether applicants meet the state’s registration requirements.
Potential reasons for denial include:
- Certain criminal convictions substantially related to security guard duties.
- Qualifying serious felony convictions.
- Certain sex offenses covered by California licensing laws.
- Recent professional licensing discipline substantially related to the occupation.
- Knowingly providing false information required on an application.
- Failing to satisfy applicable registration requirements.
However, not every criminal conviction is grounds for denial.
Under California Business and Professions Code § 480, licensing agencies must follow specific rules when considering criminal history.
These rules include limitations based on the age and nature of a conviction, exceptions for certain serious offenses, and protections for applicants who demonstrate rehabilitation.
Does a Criminal Record Automatically Disqualify You?
No.
BSIS evaluates applications under the applicable licensing laws and regulations.
A person with a criminal history may still qualify for registration.
The outcome depends on the circumstances of the case and the legal grounds available to the Bureau.
Can You Get a Guard Card With a Felony in California?
Yes, it is possible to obtain a California guard card with a felony conviction.
A felony does not automatically result in denial.
California law generally limits conviction-based licensing denials to offenses substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of the profession.
For many convictions, a seven-year limitation applies.
However, there are important exceptions.
Does the Seven-Year Rule Apply to Every Felony?
No.
California Business and Professions Code § 480 includes exceptions for certain serious felony convictions and specified offenses requiring sex offender registration.
These convictions may be considered beyond the ordinary seven-year period.
Additionally, the applicable seven-year calculation can depend on when the conviction occurred and when the applicant was released from incarceration.
What If Your Felony Happened More Than Seven Years Ago?
An older felony may be subject to California’s restrictions on conviction-based licensing denials.
However, the seven-year rule does not guarantee approval.
Certain serious offenses are exceptions, and applicants must still meet all other eligibility requirements.
If you are unsure how your conviction affects your application, consider reviewing your records and obtaining legal guidance before paying for training and application services.
Can You Get a Guard Card With a Misdemeanor?
Yes. A misdemeanor conviction does not automatically prevent you from obtaining a California guard card.
BSIS must evaluate the conviction under applicable licensing standards.
The Bureau may consider whether the offense is substantially related to security guard responsibilities and whether it falls within the legally permitted review period.
What Types of Misdemeanors Could Raise Concerns?
Depending on the circumstances, offenses involving dishonesty, violence, theft, or other conduct related to security duties may receive additional scrutiny.
However, the offense category alone does not establish automatic disqualification.
The specific conviction, its relationship to the occupation, applicable time limitations, and rehabilitation protections all matter.
What Crimes Can Cause a Guard Card Application to Be Denied?
Certain criminal convictions may raise concerns because security guards are entrusted with protecting people, property, and sensitive environments.
Examples of conduct that may be relevant to a licensing review include:
Violent Offenses
Convictions involving violence or threats may be relevant when assessing suitability for security duties.
However, the conviction must meet the applicable legal standards for denial.
Theft and Fraud
Some theft- or fraud-related convictions may be substantially related to positions involving access to property, money, or confidential information.
Not every theft or fraud conviction automatically results in denial.
Serious Felonies
Certain serious felony convictions, as defined by California law, are subject to exceptions from the usual seven-year limitation.
These offenses require careful evaluation under the applicable statutes.
Certain Sex Offenses
Specified offenses requiring sex offender registration may also fall within exceptions to the ordinary conviction lookback period.
Professional Licensing Misconduct
Recent formal disciplinary action involving substantially related professional misconduct may provide grounds for denial under California law.
Important: This is not an automatic-disqualification list. BSIS must apply the relevant legal standards to each application.
Can You Get a Guard Card With a DUI in California?
A DUI conviction does not automatically disqualify you from obtaining a California guard card.
A DUI may be considered if it meets the legal criteria for a licensing denial.
Factors such as the nature of the offense, its relationship to security guard responsibilities, the applicable time period, and rehabilitation may be relevant.
What About Multiple DUI Convictions?
Multiple convictions may present different circumstances than a single offense.
However, applicants should not assume that a specific number of DUIs automatically results in denial.
BSIS must apply the governing licensing laws.
Can You Get a Guard Card With a Domestic Violence Conviction?
A domestic violence conviction may raise significant concerns during a licensing review, particularly when the underlying offense involves violence or threats.
However, a domestic violence conviction is not automatically a permanent bar to every California guard card application.
The legal analysis depends on the specific offense, applicable statutory provisions, timing, and other relevant circumstances.
What If You Want to Become an Armed Security Guard?
Armed security work involves additional requirements.
A person prohibited from possessing firearms under state or federal law cannot lawfully perform duties requiring firearm possession merely because they qualify for an unarmed guard card.
A California guard card and a BSIS Exposed Firearms Permit are separate credentials.
Eligibility for one does not guarantee eligibility for the other.
Can You Get a Guard Card While on Probation or Parole?
Being on probation or parole does not, by itself, establish an automatic disqualification under every circumstance.
However, the underlying conviction and any applicable legal restrictions may affect eligibility.
Applicants should consider:
- The nature of the underlying offense.
- Whether the conviction is substantially related to security duties.
- Applicable conviction lookback rules.
- Any restrictions imposed by the court or supervising agency.
- Whether the applicant meets all other registration requirements.
Applicants should also ensure that accepting security employment would not violate any conditions of supervision.
Can You Get a Guard Card With an Expunged Conviction?
California provides important licensing protections for certain dismissed convictions.
Under Business and Professions Code § 480, a licensing agency generally cannot deny an application based on a conviction dismissed under specified Penal Code provisions, including certain dismissals under Penal Code § 1203.4.
These protections can also extend to comparable dismissals or expungements.
Does Expungement Guarantee Guard Card Approval?
No.
An applicant must still meet the remaining eligibility requirements.
Additionally, the legal effect of a dismissal depends on the type of relief granted and the applicable law.
What If the Dismissal Doesn’t Appear on Your Background Check?
You may need to provide proof of the court’s dismissal order if the information is not reflected in the Department of Justice records.
Keep copies of relevant court documents for your records.
Can You Get a Guard Card With a Pending Criminal Case?
A pending criminal charge is not the same as a criminal conviction.
California Business and Professions Code § 480 generally prohibits denying a license based solely on an arrest that resulted in a disposition other than a conviction.
However, pending cases can create questions about the applicant’s records or eligibility.
Applicants should not assume that every pending case automatically prevents registration.
If your application is delayed, contact BSIS to determine whether additional information is needed.
What Does the BSIS Guard Card Background Check Show?
California guard card applicants must undergo a criminal history background check through:
California Department of Justice (DOJ)
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
These checks are completed through the required fingerprinting process.
What Is Live Scan?
Live Scan is an electronic fingerprinting process used to submit fingerprints for criminal history background checks.
Applicants must use the appropriate BSIS security guard Live Scan form.
The fingerprinting provider transmits the required fingerprint information to the designated agencies.
Does Live Scan Automatically Approve Your Guard Card?
No.
Live Scan is only one part of the application process.
The fingerprinting provider does not determine whether you qualify for a California guard card.
BSIS is responsible for reviewing the application and making the registration decision.
Can Live Scan Show Old Convictions?
Criminal history records may contain information about older offenses.
However, the appearance of a conviction in a background check does not automatically mean BSIS can legally use it to deny your application.
The Bureau must follow the applicable restrictions on conviction-based licensing decisions.
Does BSIS Consider Rehabilitation?
Yes.
California licensing law provides protections for applicants who demonstrate rehabilitation.
Evidence of rehabilitation may be relevant when the Bureau evaluates a conviction that could otherwise provide grounds for denial.
Examples of potentially relevant information include:
- Completion of probation or parole.
- Completion of court-ordered programs.
- Employment history.
- Education and vocational training.
- Community involvement.
- Letters describing positive changes.
- Evidence of compliance with legal obligations.
- A certificate of rehabilitation.
- Applicable dismissal or pardon documentation.
The relevance of particular documents depends on the circumstances.
Applicants should follow BSIS instructions when submitting additional information.
What Happens If BSIS Denies Your Guard Card Application?
If BSIS denies your application, you should carefully review the written notice.
The notice should explain the basis for the decision and provide information about applicable review or appeal procedures.
Can You Appeal a Guard Card Denial?
Yes.
Depending on the type of decision, applicants may have access to review through a BSIS Disciplinary Review Committee or an administrative hearing.
These processes are not identical.
The appropriate procedure depends on the notice and the circumstances of the denial.
How Long Do You Have to Appeal?
For matters eligible for review by a BSIS Disciplinary Review Committee, the Bureau generally requires a written request within 30 days of the decision.
Other appeal procedures may have different deadlines.
Always follow the instructions and deadlines stated in your denial notice.
What Should You Include in an Appeal?
Depending on your circumstances, relevant materials may include:
- A copy of the denial notice.
- Your application or registration information.
- Court records.
- Proof of dismissal or rehabilitation.
- Relevant employment or educational records.
- A written explanation addressing the Bureau’s concerns.
Applicants may wish to seek assistance from an attorney experienced in California professional licensing.
How Can You Improve Your Chances of Getting Approved?
Although no training provider can guarantee BSIS approval, applicants can take steps to avoid preventable application problems.
1. Understand the Eligibility Requirements
Review the official BSIS security guard registration requirements before enrolling.
2. Review Your Criminal History When Appropriate
If you are concerned about a previous conviction, consider obtaining your records so you understand what they contain.
3. Gather Relevant Court Documents
If a conviction was dismissed, reduced, or otherwise affected by a court order, retain copies of the applicable documents.
4. Complete the Required Training
California requires first-time applicants to complete the initial Power to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force training.
5. Submit Accurate Application Information
Carefully review your personal information and answer all required questions accurately.
6. Complete Live Scan Fingerprinting
Use the correct BSIS fingerprinting form and retain your Live Scan receipt.
7. Monitor Your Application
Use California’s BreEZe licensing portal to check available application information.
8. Respond to BSIS Requests
If BSIS requests additional information, respond within the applicable deadline.
Can You Apply for a Guard Card Before Knowing Whether You’ll Pass the Background Check?
Applicants can submit their registration application and complete the required background check process.
However, there is no guarantee that BSIS will approve the application.
If you have concerns about a particular conviction, consider reviewing the applicable licensing laws or seeking legal advice before paying nonrefundable training and government fees.
Can A & C Security Group Tell You Whether You’ll Be Approved?
A & C Security Group provides security guard training, Live Scan services, and application assistance.
However, only BSIS determines whether an applicant qualifies for California security guard registration.
We cannot guarantee approval or override a Bureau decision.
Frequently Asked Questions About Guard Card Disqualifications
Can a felon get a guard card in California?
Yes, some applicants with felony convictions may qualify. A felony is not an automatic disqualification in every case. The specific conviction and applicable licensing laws determine whether BSIS may deny the application.
Can you get a guard card with a misdemeanor?
Yes. A misdemeanor does not automatically prevent approval. BSIS must apply the applicable legal standards when reviewing criminal history.
Does a DUI disqualify you from getting a guard card?
Not automatically. A DUI conviction must be evaluated under California’s licensing requirements.
Can you get a guard card with a domestic violence conviction?
Possibly. The answer depends on the specific conviction, applicable legal restrictions, and the Bureau’s review. Armed security work has additional firearm eligibility requirements.
Can you get a guard card while on probation?
Possibly. Probation alone does not automatically establish ineligibility, but the underlying conviction and conditions of supervision may affect your circumstances.
Can you get a guard card while on parole?
Possibly. Eligibility depends on the underlying conviction, applicable licensing law, and any restrictions imposed by the supervising authority.
Can you get a guard card with an expunged felony?
California law protects applicants from denial based on certain legally dismissed convictions. The specific dismissal and other eligibility requirements still matter.
Does BSIS check your criminal record?
Yes. Guard card applicants undergo criminal history background checks through the California DOJ and FBI.
Does a background check show convictions older than seven years?
It may. However, California law restricts when older convictions can be used as grounds for licensing denial.
What happens if you fail the guard card background check?
BSIS may request additional information or issue a denial if a legally sufficient basis exists. Review any notice carefully and follow the applicable instructions.
Can you appeal a denied guard card application?
Yes. Eligible applicants may seek review through the appropriate BSIS appeal process. Deadlines vary by procedure.
Can you get a guard card after completing probation?
Possibly. Completing probation may be relevant to rehabilitation, but it does not guarantee approval.
Can you get a guard card if you have an arrest but no conviction?
An arrest without a qualifying conviction is generally not, by itself, a permissible basis for denial under California Business and Professions Code § 480.
Does completing guard card training guarantee approval?
No. Training completion satisfies only part of the registration requirements. BSIS makes the final licensing decision.
Ready to Apply for Your California Guard Card?
If you meet California’s eligibility requirements and are ready to begin the application process, A & C Security Group offers initial guard card training, Live Scan fingerprinting, and application assistance.
Choose Your Training Option
8-Hour Initial Guard Card Training — $125
Complete the required Power to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force training.
Includes initial guard card training, Live Scan fingerprinting, and application assistance.
All-in-One 40-Hour Package — $515
Includes initial training, additional 32-hour security officer skills training, Live Scan, and application assistance.
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Need Help With Your Application?
Our application assistance service helps applicants navigate the BSIS registration process, review required information, and understand the next steps.
Application assistance does not include legal representation, criminal record clearance, or guaranteed BSIS approval.
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Visit 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
A & C Security Group is an independent security guard training provider. BSIS makes all final registration and licensing decisions.
Disclaimer: This article provides general educational information about California security guard registration requirements. It is not legal advice. Applicants with questions about specific convictions, eligibility, or appeals should consult BSIS or a qualified California attorney.