Guard Card: State-by-State Guide

Requirements last verified: 2026-10-20

What is a guard card?

A guard card is the credential most people use to describe a state security guard authorization. Official names vary by state (e.g., California Security Guard Registration, Florida Class D, Texas Noncommissioned/Commissioned Security Officer, Illinois PERC, New York Security Guard Registration, Nevada Work Card), but employers and applicants often still say “guard card.” Employers must ensure individuals are properly registered/licensed before assigning guard duties. In California, for example, employers may not permit unregistered guard work. (See CA BPC 7583.8.) ([leginfo.legislature.ca.gov](https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=BPC§ionNum=7583.8.&utm_source=openai))

Guard card vs. security guard license

States use different official terms and processes:

• California: Security Guard Registration from the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS)—commonly called a guard card. BSIS fact sheet. ([bsis.ca.gov](https://bsis.ca.gov/forms_pubs/guard_fact.pdf))
• Florida: Class “D” Security Officer license from the Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (FDACS). FDACS Private Security. ([fdacs.gov](https://www.fdacs.gov/Business-Services/Private-Security))
• Texas: Noncommissioned (Level II) or Commissioned (Level III) Security Officer under Texas DPS Private Security/TOPS. Statutes & Rules. ([dps.texas.gov](https://www.dps.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/rsd/psb/docs/psStatutesAndRules2024.pdf))
• Arizona: Security Guard license (unarmed/armed) via Arizona DPS. AZ DPS Licensing. ([azdps.gov](https://www.azdps.gov/services/public-services-center/licensing?utm_source=openai))
• Illinois: Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC) from IDFPR; armed guards also need a Firearm Control Card (FCC). IDFPR Security Professions. ([idfpr.illinois.gov](https://idfpr.illinois.gov/profs/securitycont.html?utm_source=openai))
• New York: Security Guard Registration (unarmed/armed) with DOS; DCJS governs training. DCJS Security Guard Training. ([criminaljustice.ny.gov](https://www.criminaljustice.ny.gov/ops/sgtraining/index.htm?utm_source=openai))
• Nevada: PILB Security Work Card; armed authorization added after firearms training. PILB Armed Work Card. ([pilb.nv.gov](https://pilb.nv.gov/Work_Cards/Armed/?utm_source=openai))

State-by-state summary (table)

How to apply (step-by-step with forms and links)

1. Confirm your state and credential type. For example, California uses a Security Guard Registration, Florida uses Class D, Texas uses Level II/III, etc. See state links above. ([bsis.ca.gov](https://bsis.ca.gov/forms_pubs/guard_fact.pdf))
2. Complete the required pre-licensing training.
   • CA: 8‑hour Power to Arrest before issuance; complete the 32‑hour skills package within 6 months. BSIS training outline. ([bsis.ca.gov](https://www.bsis.ca.gov/industries/g_train.shtml?utm_source=openai))
   • FL: 40 hours at a licensed Class DS school. FDACS Class D requirements. ([bsis.ca.gov](https://bsis.ca.gov/forms_pubs/livescan/?utm_source=openai))
   • TX: Level II (noncommissioned) or Level III (commissioned). DPS Rule §35.141. ([dps.texas.gov](https://www.dps.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/rsd/psb/docs/psStatutesAndRules2024.pdf))
   • AZ: 8‑hour unarmed; 16‑hour armed firearms course. AZ 8‑hr syllabus; AZ 16‑hr armed syllabus. ([azdps.gov](https://www.azdps.gov/sites/default/files/2024-08/Unarmed%20Security%20Guard%208%20Hour%20Training%20Syllabus%20%28Form%20802-03918%29_1.pdf?utm_source=openai))
   • IL: 20‑hour basic within 30 days for PERC. 225 ILCS 447/25‑20. ([ilga.gov](https://ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext?DocName=022504470K25-20&utm_source=openai))
   • NY: 8‑hr pre‑assignment then 16‑hr OJT within 90 days; annual 8‑hr refreshers; armed requires 47‑hr course/pistol license. DCJS. ([criminaljustice.ny.gov](https://www.criminaljustice.ny.gov/ops/sgtraining/index.htm?utm_source=openai))
3. Submit fingerprints and background check.
   • CA: Use the Security Guard Live Scan form; pay DOJ/FBI fees; out‑of‑state applicants use fingerprint cards. BSIS Live Scan. ([bsis.ca.gov](https://bsis.ca.gov/forms_pubs/livescan/index.shtml?utm_source=openai))
   • FL: Submit electronic fingerprints per FDLE/FDACS instructions. FDACS. ([fdacs.gov](https://www.fdacs.gov/Business-Services/Private-Security))
   • TX: Submit application via TOPS and fingerprints through the approved DPS vendor. DPS fingerprinting. ([dps.texas.gov](https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/private-security/fingerprinting-instructions?utm_source=openai))
   • AZ: Fingerprints and fees required with application; DPS Public Services Portal. AZ DPS Licensing. ([azdps.gov](https://www.azdps.gov/services/public-services-center/licensing?qt-licensing=3&utm_source=openai))
4. Apply to the state agency (online is fastest where available).
   • CA: BreEZe online; BSIS says online submission can reduce processing by up to two weeks. BSIS fact sheet. ([bsis.ca.gov](https://bsis.ca.gov/forms_pubs/guard_fact.pdf))
   • FL: Apply for Class D with FDACS; pay statutory fee. §493.6302. ([flsenate.gov](https://www.flsenate.gov/laws/statutes/2024/493.6302))
   • TX: Apply and track status in TOPS. DPS TOPS. ([dps.texas.gov](https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/private-security/getting-started-tops?utm_source=openai))
5. Start work only when permitted.
   • CA: You may work with a printed online approval while your BSIS card is mailed. BSIS fact sheet. ([bsis.ca.gov](https://bsis.ca.gov/forms_pubs/guard_fact.pdf))
   • TX: If DPS has not received fingerprint data within 48 hours, a noncommissioned applicant may begin certain duties pending results (not armed). Texas Occ. Code §1702 (provisional work). ([tcss.legis.texas.gov](https://tcss.legis.texas.gov/resources/oc/htm/oc.1702.htm?utm_source=openai))

Costs and timelines

• Training tuition is set by schools; state fees are set by statute/rule. Examples: CA registration $60 initial/$35 renewal plus DOJ/FBI Live Scan; FL Class D $45 statutory license fee; FL renewals per FDACS schedule; fingerprint vendor fees vary by state. Always confirm current fee tables. ([govt.westlaw.com](https://govt.westlaw.com/calregs/Document/I948998E050DF11F0A385A3DAE9BB37BB?needToInjectTerms=False&originationContext=document&ppcid=13561f27f35544bfa69cf8ef08686575&transitionType=StatuteNavigator&viewType=FullText&utm_source=openai))
• Processing times vary. CA advises approximately 4–6 weeks for initial application processing; online can reduce timelines; guards can work with BSIS online approval printout once issued. Check your state portal for current timeframes. ([bsis.ca.gov](https://bsis.ca.gov/forms_pubs/guard_fact.pdf))

Renewal and continuing education

• California: 8 hours annual CE; renewal every 2 years; if not renewed within 60 days after expiration, the registration is cancelled. BSIS fact sheet. ([bsis.ca.gov](https://bsis.ca.gov/forms_pubs/guard_fact.pdf))
• Florida: Licenses renewed biennially (Class D); Class G requires 4 hours of annual firearms requalification by a Class K instructor. §493.6113. ([flsenate.gov](https://www.flsenate.gov/laws/statutes/2024/493.6113?utm_source=openai))
• Texas: Individual licenses renew every 2 years; CE specifically applies to commissioned officers/PPOs. DPS rules. ([dps.texas.gov](https://www.dps.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/rsd/psb/docs/psStatutesAndRules2024.pdf))
• Arizona: Armed guards complete 8 hours armed refresher annually; renew via DPS portal. AZ DPS 8‑hr refresher. ([azdps.gov](https://www.azdps.gov/sites/default/files/2024-08/8%20Hour%20Armed%20Security%20Guard%20Continuing%20Firearms%20Training%20Program%20Lesson%20Plan%20%28Form%20802-03907%29_1.pdf?utm_source=openai))
• Illinois: Renew PERC/FCC per IDFPR; annual weapons refresher applies for armed proprietary forces and as specified in rules. 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1240.530. ([law.cornell.edu](https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/illinois/Ill-Admin-Code-tit-68-SS-1240.530?utm_source=openai))
• New York: 8‑hr annual in‑service each year; renewal every 2 years. DCJS courses. ([criminaljustice.ny.gov](https://www.criminaljustice.ny.gov/ops/sgtraining/sgpcourses.htm?utm_source=openai))

Armed credentials, concealed carry, and endorsements

• Carrying a firearm on duty requires a separate state authorization in most jurisdictions (e.g., CA BSIS Exposed Firearm Permit; FL Class G; TX Commissioned Security Officer; AZ Armed endorsement; IL FCC; NY Special Armed Guard registration). Off‑duty concealed carry rules are separate and typically outside guard licensing. Always follow your state’s armed-guard statutes and your employer’s written authorization. ([bsis.ca.gov](https://bsis.ca.gov/forms_pubs/new_firearm.shtml?utm_source=openai))

Reciprocity, temporary permits, and common exemptions

• Reciprocity: Most states do not grant full reciprocity for guard credentials; you typically must apply in the state where you will work. Florida, Texas, California, and New York require in‑state licensure/registration. See each agency’s site. ([fdacs.gov](https://www.fdacs.gov/Business-Services/Private-Security))
• Provisional/temporary work: Texas law allows certain noncommissioned applicants to begin working after 48 hours if fingerprint information has not yet posted, subject to limits (not armed). Texas Occupations Code. ([tcss.legis.texas.gov](https://tcss.legis.texas.gov/resources/oc/htm/oc.1702.htm?utm_source=openai))
• Government/peace officer exemptions: Many states exempt government employees acting in official duties and provide training/registration exemptions for certain peace officers (e.g., TX TCOLE exemptions for parts of Level III; IL peace officer PERC/FCC exemptions; CA has specific peace‑officer provisions). Check your statute. ([dps.texas.gov](https://www.dps.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/rsd/psb/docs/psStatutesAndRules2024.pdf))

Employer vs. individual responsibilities

• Employers must verify an employee’s current registration/licensure before assigning guard duties and maintain training records as required. California explicitly requires employer verification and recordkeeping. BSIS fact sheet; BPC 7583.8. ([bsis.ca.gov](https://bsis.ca.gov/forms_pubs/guard_fact.pdf))
• Individuals must complete required training, submit fingerprints, pay fees, carry the credential while on duty, and complete CE/renewals on time. CA requires guards to carry the registration and allows work with a printed online approval pending card delivery. BSIS. ([bsis.ca.gov](https://bsis.ca.gov/forms_pubs/guard_fact.pdf))

Penalties for noncompliance

• California: Unlicensed activity may draw administrative citations and fines; BSIS regulations authorize unlicensed activity citations up to $5,000, and late renewals beyond 60 days are cancelled. BSIS regs; BSIS fact sheet. ([bsis.ca.gov](https://www.bsis.ca.gov/about_us/laws/bsis_regulations.pdf?utm_source=openai))
• Illinois: Carrying a firearm on duty without an FCC is prohibited; employers may not allow armed work absent required credentials. 225 ILCS 447/35‑35. ([ilga.gov](https://ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext?DocName=022504470K35-35&utm_source=openai))
• Nevada: Armed authorization must be issued by PILB; work card status is updated after verification. PILB Armed. ([pilb.nv.gov](https://pilb.nv.gov/Work_Cards/Armed/?utm_source=openai))

Checklist for entrepreneurs

• Map each post’s state(s) and credential type (unarmed/armed) and confirm hiring eligibility windows.
• Vet and schedule state-approved training providers; retain rosters, syllabi, and completion certificates.
• Centralize fingerprint tracking (appointment, results received) and application submission dates.
• Before assignment, verify the employee’s license/registration in the state’s lookup tool (e.g., BSIS “Verify a License,” FDACS license search, TX TOPS search).
• Calendar renewals and annual/periodic training (e.g., CA 8‑hr annual, FL G 4‑hr annual, NY 8‑hr annual).
• Document armed authorizations separately (permit numbers, calibers, requalification dates).

Helpful internal links

• License Navigator: Florida guard card costs
• License Navigator: Arizona guard card costs
• License Navigator: Illinois guard card costs

FAQ

How long does it take to get a guard card?

It varies by state and background check timing. California advises approximately 4–6 weeks from application; online filing may shorten processing, and you may work with an online approval printout once issued. Check your state portal for current timelines. ([bsis.ca.gov](https://bsis.ca.gov/forms_pubs/guard_fact.pdf))

What offenses disqualify me?

Each state evaluates criminal history differently. Disqualifiers typically include certain violent felonies, weapons offenses, and crimes related to dishonesty. Some states allow case-by-case review and rehabilitation evidence. Consult your state’s statute/rules and consider legal counsel for specific histories. Examples: FL renewals/eligibility under Ch. 493; TX Occupations Code Ch. 1702; CA BPC/BSIS enforcement. ([flsenate.gov](https://www.flsenate.gov/laws/statutes/2024/493.6113?utm_source=openai))

I have a prior conviction—what should I do?

Gather certified court dispositions, proof of sentence completion, and any rehabilitation documents (e.g., certificates, employment letters). Many agencies accept explanatory statements and may require additional review. Arizona and Texas provide appeal processes; California and Illinois review disposition details with DOJ/ISP fingerprint results. See your agency’s application instructions. ([azdps.gov](https://www.azdps.gov/services/public-services-center/licensing?qt-licensing=3&utm_source=openai))

Can I use a guard card from one state in another?

Usually no—apply in the state where you will work. Some states may accept prior training toward requirements (e.g., Florida statutes allow department rulemaking for training/requirements, but you still need a Florida license). Always apply in‑state. ([flsenate.gov](https://www.flsenate.gov/laws/statutes/2024/493.6302))

Do I need a concealed-carry permit to work armed?

No. Employment as an armed guard requires the state’s armed guard authorization (e.g., FL Class G, CA Exposed Firearm Permit). Concealed-carry permits are separate and don’t substitute for armed-guard endorsements. Follow employer authorization and state law. ([fdacs.gov](https://www.fdacs.gov/Business-Services/Private-Security-Licenses/Renewing-Your-Private-Security-License))

Last checked: 2026-10-20. Always confirm current rules and fee tables on the official agency pages linked above.