To become a security guard in California, you must be at least 18, have a clean criminal record, and be legally authorized to work in the U.S.
You must complete 40 hours of required training, starting with an 8-hour "Power to Arrest" course. After finishing the initial training, you can apply for your Guard Card through the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS), which will involve a background check and fingerprinting.
Once you have obtained your Guard Card, you can apply for security guard positions. Additionally, you may consider pursuing extra certifications, such as firearms or baton permits, to enhance your career opportunities.