A focused, no-fluff path to a California security license. Start with your mandatory 8-hour course, complete your remaining state hours, and add your firearm permit when you're ready to carry.
Every course maps directly to current California BSIS standards, so you finish knowing exactly what you've completed and what comes next.
On the range and in the classroom, the four universal rules of firearm safety come first. Discipline and respect for the law are the foundation of everything we teach.
You learn directly from certified instructors — not a video. Questions get answered, and you leave confident in both the rules and the hands-on skills.
From your first class to your BSIS application and Live Scan, we walk you through each step so nothing trips you up on the way to getting licensed.
Getting your guard card is step one. If your goal is to start your own security business, you'll need a California Private Patrol Operator (PPO) license — and the BSIS process is notoriously tough. We offer hands-on PPO consulting: qualified manager exam prep, experience documentation, every form, and filing, start to finish.
Two dedicated, certified instructors who personally teach every class — no rotating staff, no outsourced video courses.
You can come in any time during business hours and start your training right away — there are no fixed class times. Letting us know roughly when you'll arrive just helps us keep your check-in and processing wait as short as possible.
// Select the course you'd like to attend
// Choose a day — next 21 days, open Monday–Friday
// Pick a 30-minute arrival window — limited spots each to reduce wait
// Your contact details
// Confirm your reservation
"Knocked out my 8-hour course on a Saturday and had my paperwork ready to submit the same day. Clear, professional, and no wasted time."
"The firearm permit class was thorough on both the legal side and the range. The instructors were patient and made sure everyone qualified safely."
"They walked me through the whole BSIS process step by step. As someone brand new to security work, that guidance was worth everything."
You complete the required state training, submit your application to BSIS, and pass a background check via Live Scan fingerprinting. Our 8-hour Powers to Arrest & Appropriate Use of Force course is the training you need to begin that application — and we'll guide you through the rest of the steps.
Yes — we handle Live Scan fingerprinting right here in house, so you don't have to make a separate trip anywhere else. Between your training, fingerprinting, and help with your BSIS application, everything you need to get registered is under one roof. Just stop in during business hours and we'll take care of it.
California requires 40 hours of guard training. That's the initial 8-hour course before you apply, then 32 additional hours completed within your first six months of registration. We offer both the 8-hour course and the full 32-hour continued training.
Once you're a registered guard, California requires ongoing continuing education each year to keep your registration current, including an annual use-of-force review. Our 8-hour Annual Refresher keeps you compliant and ready for renewal.
It's the BSIS-required 14-hour course — 8 hours of classroom plus 6 hours on the range — to legally carry an exposed firearm as an armed security guard. It covers the legal and moral use of force, firearm handling, and a live-range qualification.
Yes. To take the Exposed Firearm Permit course you must be at least 21 and hold a Guard Card (or show proof you've completed the Powers to Arrest training). A firearms assessment is also required before applying for the permit.
No. Range firearm rentals are available for the firearm permit course, so you can train and qualify without owning your own. You're welcome to qualify with your own firearm after a safety check.
A valid government-issued ID, and for firearm courses, eye and ear protection plus appropriate range attire (we can advise on ammunition). We'll send a full prep checklist when you book.
Questions about which course you need or how to get started? Send us a message and we'll get back to you within one business day.
We'll help you figure out the right course for your situation.
6931 Van Nuys Blvd, Suite 325
Van Nuys, CA 91405
(818) 785-0085
train@gfta-academy.com
Mon–Fri · 12:00pm – 9:00pm
Sat & Sun · Closed
Questions before you come in? Call (818) 785-0085 — Alex, the owner, always answers.