ARTICLE 4. Private Patrol Operators [7583. - 7583.47.]

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC 4.
in effect

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.1. Section 7583.1.

(a) An applicant, or their manager, for a license as a private patrol operator shall have had at least two years, which shall consist of not less than 4,000 hours of experience as a patrolperson, guard, or watchman, or the equivalent thereof as determined by the director, and one year, which shall consist of not less than 2,000 hours as manager or in an administrative position with a licensed and current private patrol operator. An applicant shall substantiate the claimed three years, which shall consist of not less than 6,000 hours of qualifying experience and the exact details as to the character and nature thereof by written certifications from the employer, subject to independent verification by the chief as they may determine. In the event of inability of an applicant to supply the written certifications from the employer in whole or in part, applicants may offer other written certifications from other than employers substantiating employment for consideration by the chief. (b) An individual who, upon the determination of the chief, has served in the armed services and possesses the proper skills may be eligible to take the private patrol operator licensing examination. In that case, the chief may waive any other required training courses, as they determine. However, if the applicant fails the licensing examination, the chief may not thereafter waive completion of any required training courses.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.2. Section 7583.2.

A person licensed as a private patrol operator shall not do any of the following: (a) Fail to properly maintain an accurate and current record of all firearms or other deadly weapons that are in the possession of the licensee or of any employee while on duty. Within seven days after a licensee or the licensee’s employees discover that a deadly weapon that has been recorded as being in the licensee’s possession has been misplaced, lost, or stolen, or is in any other way missing, the licensee or their manager shall mail or deliver to any local law enforcement agency that has jurisdiction, a written report concerning the incident. The report shall describe fully the circumstances surrounding the incident, any injuries or damages incurred, the identity of all participants, and whether a police investigation was conducted. (b) Fail to properly maintain an accurate and current record of the name, address, commencing date of employment, and position of each employee, and the date of termination of employment when an employee is terminated. (c) Fail to properly maintain an accurate and current record of proof of completion by each employee of the licensee of the trainings and for the retention period specified in Section 7583.6. (d) Fail to certify proof of current and valid registration for each employee who is subject to registration. (e) Permit any employee to carry a firearm or other deadly weapon without first ascertaining that the employee is proficient in the use of each weapon to be carried. With respect to firearms, evidence of proficiency shall include a certificate from a firearm training facility approved by the director certifying that the employee is proficient in the use of that specified caliber of firearm and a current and valid firearm qualification permit issued by the department. With respect to other deadly weapons, evidence of proficiency shall include a certificate from a training facility approved by the director certifying that the employee is proficient in the use of that particular deadly weapon. (f) (1) Fail to deliver to the director a written report describing the circumstances surrounding the discharge of any firearm, or physical altercation with a member of the public while on duty, by a licensee or any officer, partner, or employee of a licensee while acting within the course and scope of their employment within seven business days after the qualifying incident. (2) The report shall be required only for physical altercations that result in any of the following: (A) The arrest of a security guard. (B) The filing of a police report by a member of the public. (C) A member of the public requiring any type of first aid or other medical attention. (D) The discharge, suspension, or reprimand of a security guard by their employer. (E) Any physical use of force or violence on any person while on duty. (3) The report shall include, but not be limited to, a description of any injuries or damages incurred, the identity of all participants, and whether a police investigation was conducted. Any report may be investigated by the director to determine if any disciplinary action is necessary. (4) A report shall not be required when a security officer or multiple security officers are requested by hospital staff to assist in restraining a patient by either holding the patient or limiting the movement of the patient for medical or mental health reasons. (g) Fail to notify the bureau in writing and within 30 days that a manager previously qualified pursuant to this chapter is no longer connected with the licensee. (h) Fail to administer to each registered employee of the licensee, the review or practice training required by subdivision (e) of Section 7583.6.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.3. Section 7583.3.

No person required to be registered as a security guard pursuant to this chapter shall do any of the following: (a) Fail to carry on their person, while on duty, a valid and current security guard registration card, or if pending receipt of the registration card after the bureau’s approval, a hardcopy printout of the approved security guard registration information from the bureau’s internet website and a valid picture identification pursuant to Section 7583.17. (b) Fail to carry on their person when carrying a firearm on duty either a valid and current firearms permit, or if pending receipt of the permit after the bureau’s approval, a hardcopy printout of the approved firearms permit information from the bureau’s internet website and a valid picture identification pursuant to Section 7583.12. (c) Carry or use a firearm unless they possess a valid and current firearms permit that is associated with a valid and current security guard registration issued pursuant to this chapter. (d) Fail to report to their employer within 24 hours of the incident the circumstances surrounding any incident involving the discharge of any firearm in which they are involved while acting within the course and scope of their employment. (e) Carry or use a firearm or baton, as authorized by this chapter, unless the security guard is an employee of a private patrol operator licensee or an employee of the state or a political subdivision of the state.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.4. Section 7583.4.

Any person registered as a security guard or patrolperson, and the employer of the security guard or patrolperson, shall deliver to the director a written report describing fully the circumstances surrounding any incident involving the discharge of any firearm in which he or she was involved while acting within the course and scope of his or her employment, within seven days after the incident. The report shall be made on a form prescribed by the director which shall include, but not be limited to, the following: (a) The name, address, and date of birth of the guard or patrolperson. (b) The registration number of the guard or patrolperson. (c) The firearm permit number and baton permit number of the guard or patrolperson, if applicable. (d) The name of the employer of the person. (e) The description of any injuries and damages that occurred. (f) The identity of all participants in the incident. (g) Whether a police investigation was conducted relating to the incident. (h) The date and location of the incident. Any report may be investigated by the director to determine if any disciplinary action is necessary. A copy of the report delivered to the director pursuant to this section shall also be delivered within seven days of the incident to the local police or sheriff’s department which has jurisdiction over the geographic area where the incident occurred.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.5. Section 7583.5.

(a) Every licensee and any person employed and compensated by a licensee, other lawful business, or public agency as a security guard or patrolperson, and who in the course of that employment or business carries a firearm, shall complete a course of training in the exercise of the power to arrest and the appropriate use of force and a course of training in the carrying and use of firearms. This subdivision shall not apply to armored vehicle guards hired prior to January 1, 1977. Armored vehicle guards hired on or after January 1, 1977, shall complete a course of training in the carrying and use of firearms, but shall not be required to complete a course of training in the exercise of the power to arrest and the appropriate use of force. The course of training in the carrying and use of firearms shall not be required of any employee who is not required or permitted by a licensee to carry or use firearms. The course in the carrying and use of firearms and the course of training in the exercise of the power to arrest and the appropriate use of force shall meet the standards which shall be prescribed by the Department of Consumer Affairs. The department shall encourage restraint and caution in the use of firearms. (b) No licensee or uniformed employee of a licensee shall carry or use any firearm unless the licensee or employee has in their possession a valid firearms qualification card. (c) This section shall become operative on July 1, 2023.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.6. Section 7583.6.

(a) Each applicant for a security guard registration shall complete a course in the exercise of the power to arrest and the appropriate use of force as a condition for the issuance of the registration. A course provider authorized to provide the training pursuant to Section 7583.7 shall issue a certificate of completion to the person upon satisfactory completion of the training. The course provider shall conduct the training in accordance with Section 7583.7 and any applicable regulations adopted by the bureau. The training shall be administered and certified by a single course provider, pursuant to subdivision (f), and shall be completed within six months preceding the date the application is submitted to the bureau. (b) Except for a registrant who has completed the course of training required by Section 7583.45, a security guard registrant shall complete not less than 32 hours of training in security officer skills within six months from the date an initial registration is issued. A security guard registrant shall complete 16 of the 32 hours within 30 days from the date the registration is issued. (c) A course provider, which is authorized to provide the training required by subdivision (b) pursuant to subdivision (f), shall issue a certificate of completion to a registrant after the registrant completes each training course. The course provider shall conduct the trainings in accordance with any applicable regulations adopted by the bureau subject to this chapter. (d) (1) A registrant who is unable to provide their employing licensee the certificate of satisfactory completion of the training required by subdivision (a) shall complete the training within six months of the registrant’s employment date. (2) A registrant who is unable to provide their employing licensee the certificate of satisfactory completion of the training required by subdivision (b) shall complete 16 hours of the training within 30 days of the registrant’s employment date and shall complete the 16 remaining hours within six months of the registrant’s employment date. (e) A registrant shall annually complete eight hours of specifically dedicated review or practice of security officer skills prescribed in this section, Section 7583.7, or by the bureau by regulation. (f) The trainings specified in this section may be administered, tested, and certified by one of the following: (1) Any licensee, provided that the licensee shall provide the training only to their applicants for employment and direct employees. (2) Any training facility certified pursuant to this chapter. (3) Any organization or school approved by the bureau. The bureau shall approve any instructor of an organization or school who will administer the trainings specified in this section to ensure that the organization or school complies with the requirements of this chapter, as well as any applicable regulations. (g) (1) A registrant shall maintain the certificate of completion the registrant received for each training course prescribed in this section until the registration expires or has been canceled. The registrant shall provide the records to the bureau upon request. (2) A licensee shall maintain at the principal place of business or branch office a record for each of its registrant employees verifying completion of the trainings required by this section for the duration of the registrant’s employment. The records shall be available for inspection by the bureau upon request. (h) This section does not apply to a peace officer as defined in Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 830) of Title 3 of Part 2 of the Penal Code who has successfully completed a course of study in the exercise of the power to arrest and the appropriate use of force approved by the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training or a federal qualified law enforcement officer, as defined in Section 926B of Title 18 of the United States Code, who has successfully completed a course of study in the exercise of the power to arrest and the appropriate use of force. (i) This section does not apply to armored vehicle guards. (j) (1) The bureau shall develop and approve by regulation a standard course and curriculum for the skills trainings required by this section to promote and protect the safety of persons and the security of property. (2) The bureau shall develop an outline for the course and curriculum described in paragraph (1) in consultation with the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.7. Section 7583.7.

(a) The course of training in the exercise of the power to arrest and the appropriate use of force may be administered, tested, and certified by any licensee or by any organization or school approved by the department. The department may approve any person or school to teach the course in the exercise of the power to arrest and the appropriate use of force. The department may review and provide more guidance on courses of training when best practices are updated. The course of training shall be approximately eight hours in length and shall cover all of the following topics: (1) Responsibilities and ethics in citizen arrest. (2) Relationship between a security guard and a peace officer in making an arrest. (3) Limitations on security guard power to arrest. (4) Restrictions on searches and seizures. (5) Criminal and civil liabilities, including both of the following: (A) Personal liability. (B) Employer liability. (6) Trespass law. (7) Ethics and communications. (8) Emergency situation response, including response to medical emergencies. (9) Security officer safety. (10) The appropriate use of force, including all of the following topics: (A) Legal standards for use of force. (B) Duty to intercede. (C) The use of objectively reasonable force. (D) Supervisory responsibilities. (E) Use of force review and analysis. (F) De-escalation and interpersonal communication training, including tactical methods that use time, distance, cover, and concealment, to avoid escalating situations that lead to violence. (G) Implicit and explicit bias and cultural competency. (H) Skills, including de-escalation techniques, to effectively, safely, and respectfully interact with people with disabilities or behavioral health issues. (I) Use of force scenario training, including simulations of low-frequency, high-risk situations and calls for service, shoot-or-don’t-shoot situations, and real-time force option decisionmaking. (J) Mental health and policing, including bias and stigma. (K) Active shooter situations. (11) Any other topic deemed appropriate by the bureau, excluding Weapons of Mass Destruction and Terrorism Awareness, which may be an elective topic only. (b) (1) The majority of the course shall be taught by means of verbal instruction. This instruction may include the use of a video presentation. (2) Paragraph (10) of subdivision (a) shall be conducted through traditional classroom instruction. For the purposes of this paragraph, “traditional classroom instruction” means instruction where the instructor is physically present with students in a classroom for a minimum of 50 percent of the course and is available at all times, including during instruction provided through distance learning or remote platforms, to answer students’ questions while providing the required training. In this setting, the instructor provides demonstrations and hands-on instruction in order to establish each student’s proficiency as to the course content. (c) (1) The department shall make available a guidebook as a standard for teaching the course in the exercise of the power to arrest and the appropriate use of force, which may be known as the Power to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force Manual. The department shall encourage additional training and may provide a training guide recommending additional courses to be taken by security personnel. (2) The development, adoption, amendment, or repeal of the Power to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force Manual by the bureau is exempt from the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code). (d) Private patrol operators may provide a copy of the Power to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force Manual to each person that they currently employ as a security guard. The private patrol operator may provide the guidebook to each person the private patrol operator intends to hire as a security guard a reasonable time prior to the time the person begins the course in the exercise of the power to arrest and the appropriate use of force. (e) The bureau may inspect, supervise, or view the administration of the test at any time and without any prior notification. Any impropriety in the administration of the course or the test shall constitute grounds for disciplinary action. (f) This section shall become operative on July 1, 2023.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.9. Section 7583.9.

(a) The security guard registration applicant shall submit the application, the registration fee, and their fingerprints, either in the form of classifiable fingerprint cards or in an electronic format pursuant to subdivision (c), to the bureau. The bureau shall forward the classifiable fingerprint cards to the Department of Justice. The Department of Justice shall forward one classifiable fingerprint card to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for purposes of a background check. (b) If a private patrol operator pays the application fee on behalf of the applicant, nothing in this section shall preclude the private patrol operator from withholding the amount of the fee from the applicant’s compensation. (c) In lieu of classifiable fingerprint cards provided for in this section, the bureau may authorize applicants to submit their fingerprints into an electronic fingerprinting system administered by the Department of Justice. Applicants who submit their fingerprints by electronic means shall have their fingerprints entered into the system through a terminal operated by a law enforcement agency or other facility authorized by the Department of Justice to conduct electronic fingerprinting. The enforcement agency responsible for operating the terminal may charge a fee sufficient to reimburse it for the costs incurred in providing this service. (d) Upon receipt of an applicant’s electronic or hard card fingerprints as provided in this section, the Department of Justice shall disseminate the following information to the bureau: (1) Every conviction rendered against the applicant. (2) Every arrest for an offense for which the applicant is presently awaiting trial, whether the applicant is incarcerated or has been released on bail or on their own recognizance pending trial. (e) (1) The requirement in subdivision (a) to submit a fingerprint card does not apply to any of the following: (A) A currently employed, full-time peace officer holding peace officer status under Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 830) of Title 3 of Part 2 of the Penal Code. (B) A level I or level II reserve officer under paragraphs (1) and (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 832.6 of the Penal Code. (2) An individual listed in subparagraph (A) or (B) of paragraph (1) may immediately perform the functions of a security guard or security patrolperson provided that the individual has submitted an application, the applicable fees, and their fingerprints, if required to submit fingerprints pursuant to subdivision (a), to the bureau for a security guard registration. (3) This subdivision does not apply to a peace officer required to obtain a firearm qualification card pursuant to Section 7583.12. (f) Peace officers exempt from the submission of classifiable fingerprints pursuant to subdivision (e) shall submit verification of their active duty peace officer status to the bureau with their application for registration. A photocopy of the front and back of their peace officer identification badge shall be adequate verification. (g) Peace officers exempt from the submission of classifiable fingerprints pursuant to subdivision (e) shall report a change in their active duty peace officer status to the bureau within 72 hours of the change in active duty peace officer status. (h) (1) Peace officers exempt from obtaining a firearm qualification card pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 7583.12 or exempt from obtaining a baton permit pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 7584.1 shall submit to the bureau with their application for registration a letter of approval from their primary employer authorizing the peace officer to carry a firearm or baton while working as a security guard or security officer. (2) For purposes of this section, “primary employer” means a public safety agency currently employing a peace officer subject to this section. (i) In addition to the amount authorized pursuant to Section 7570.1, the bureau may impose an additional fee not to exceed three dollars ($3) for processing classifiable fingerprint cards submitted by applicants excluding those submitted into an electronic fingerprint system using electronic fingerprint technology. (j) This section shall become operative on July 1, 2024.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.10. Section 7583.10.

The application shall be verified and shall include all of the following: (a) The full name, residence address, telephone number, and date of birth of the applicant. (b) The name of the entity that administered the course in the exercise of the power to arrest and the appropriate use of force to the applicant. (1) If the course provider is a licensee, the bureau-issued license number. (2) If the course provider is a certified firearms training facility or baton training facility, the bureau-issued facility certificate number. (3) If the course provider is an approved trainer in the exercise of the power to arrest and the appropriate use of force, the approved trainer number issued by the bureau. (c) The name of the person who taught the course in the exercise of the power to arrest and the appropriate use of force completed by the applicant. (d) The serial number on the certificate of completion the course provider issued to the applicant upon completion of the course in the exercise of the power to arrest and the appropriate use of force. (e) A statement that the applicant has completed the training course in the exercise of the power to arrest and the appropriate use of force, as specified in Section 7583.7, within six months preceding the date the application is submitted to the bureau, pursuant to Section 7583.6. (f) A statement as to whether the applicant has been convicted of a misdemeanor, excluding minor traffic violations. (g) A statement as to whether the applicant has been convicted of a felony. (h) The application fee provided for in this chapter or the regulations adopted pursuant thereto, except as provided in Section 7583.9. (i) This section shall become operative on July 1, 2023.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.12. Section 7583.12.

(a) An employee of a licensee shall not carry or use a firearm unless the employee has in their possession both of the following: (1) A valid guard registration card issued pursuant to this chapter. (2) A valid firearm qualification card issued pursuant to this chapter. (b) An employee of a licensee may carry or use a firearm while working as a security guard or security patrolperson pending receipt of a firearm qualification card if the employee has been approved by the bureau and carries on their person a hardcopy printout of the bureau’s approval from the bureau’s internet website and a valid picture identification. (c) Paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) and subdivision (b) shall not apply to a duly appointed peace officer, as defined in Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 830) of Title 3 of Part 2 of the Penal Code, who meets all of the following: (1) The peace officer has successfully completed a course of study in the use of firearms. (2) The peace officer is authorized to carry a concealed firearm in the course and scope of their employment pursuant to Article 2 (commencing with Section 25450) of Chapter 2 of Division 5 of Title 4 of Part 6 of the Penal Code. (3) The peace officer has proof that they have applied to the bureau for a firearm qualification card. (d) (1) This section shall not apply to a duly appointed peace officer, as defined in Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 830) of Title 3 of Part 2 of the Penal Code, or a federal qualified law enforcement officer, as defined in Section 926B of Title 18 of the United States Code, who has written approval from their primary employer, as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (h) of Section 7583.9, to carry a firearm while working as a security guard. (2) A peace officer exempt under this subdivision shall carry on their person a letter of approval from their primary employer authorizing the peace officer to carry a firearm while working as a security guard.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.13. Section 7583.13.

(a) The bureau, upon receipt of a criminal offense record or record of a subsequent arrest from the Department of Justice, shall make an immediate determination of fitness of (1) applicants for registration under this article, or (2) applicants for firearm qualification cards, when information contained in the records of the Department of Justice makes this determination possible. Applications of those determined to be unfit shall be immediately denied. (b) The bureau shall keep a current and accurate record of the individuals who have applied for and been denied registration under this article or a firearms qualification card. A list consisting of individual names and other pertinent identifying information may be made of those individuals who have been denied registration. The list may be updated bimonthly and made available to interested licensees and law enforcement agencies.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.14. Section 7583.14.

(a) If the chief determines that an applicant’s criminal history contains open arrest information, the chief shall issue a notice to the applicant allowing 45 days for the applicant to provide documentation concerning the disposition of the arrest or arrests. (b) The notice shall be sent to the applicant at his or her last known residential address and shall provide sufficient information to assist the applicant in complying with the chief’s request. If the applicant fails to respond within 45 days, the applicant’s employment shall be automatically suspended until the bureau obtains the necessary documentation to approve or deny the application, or suspend the registration.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.16. Section 7583.16.

(a) The director may deny an application for registration, or may suspend or revoke a previously issued registration, if the individual has committed any action which, if committed by a licensee, would be grounds for refusing to issue a license, or for the suspension or revocation of a license issued under this chapter. (b) The denial of an application for registration under this article shall be in writing and shall describe the basis for the denial. The denial shall inform the applicant that if the applicant desires a review by a disciplinary review committee to contest the denial, the review shall be requested of the director within 30 days following notice of the issuance of the denial.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.17. Section 7583.17.

(a) Upon approval of an application for registration, the chief shall cause to be issued to the applicant at his or her last known residential address a registration card in a form approved by the director. (b) A person may work as a security guard or security patrolperson pending receipt of the registration card if he or she has been approved by the bureau and carries on his or her person a hardcopy printout of the bureau’s approval from the bureau’s Internet Web site and a valid picture identification. (c) This section shall become operative on July 1, 2018.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.19. Section 7583.19.

A licensee shall at all times be responsible for ascertaining that those of their employees who are subject to registration are currently registered as provided in this article. A licensee may not have a person whose registration has expired or been revoked, denied, suspended, or canceled perform security guard duties.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.20. Section 7583.20.

(a) A registration issued under this chapter expires at midnight on the last day of the month two years following the date of issuance unless renewed. At least 60 days prior to the expiration, a registrant seeking to renew a security guard registration shall forward to the bureau a completed registration renewal application and the renewal fee. The renewal application shall be on a form prescribed by the director, dated and signed by the applicant, certifying under penalty of perjury that the information in the application is true and correct. (b) The licensee shall provide to any employee information regarding procedures for renewal of registration. (c) In the event a registrant fails to request a renewal of their registration as provided for in this chapter, the registration shall expire as indicated on the registration. If the registration is renewed within 60 days after its expiration, the registrant, as a condition precedent to renewal, shall pay the renewal fee and the delinquency fee. A person is prohibited from performing the duties of a security guard with an expired registration. (d) If the renewed registration card has not been delivered to the registrant before the expiration of the prior registration but the bureau has renewed the registration, the registrant may work as a security guard pending receipt of the renewed registration card, as specified in Section 7583.17. (e) A registration may not be renewed or reinstated unless a registrant meets both of the following requirements: (1) All fines assessed pursuant to Section 7587.7 and not resolved in accordance with the provisions of that section have been paid. (2) The applicant for registration renewal certifies, on a form prescribed by the bureau, that the applicant has completed the 32 hours of the training required by subdivision (b) of Section 7583.6 and the annual training required by subdivision (e) of Section 7583.6.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.21. Section 7583.21.

The registration of a security guard shall be automatically suspended if the guard is convicted of any crime that is substantially related to the functions, duties, and responsibilities of a security guard. The automatic suspension shall be effectuated by the mailing of a notice of conviction and suspension of license to be sent by the bureau to the registered guard at his or her address of record. The notice shall contain a statement of preliminary determination by the director or his or her designee that the crime stated is reasonably related to the functions, duties, and responsibilities of a security guard. Upon proper request by the guard, a hearing shall be convened within 60 days of the request, before the private security disciplinary review committee, as specified in Section 7581.3, for a determination as to whether the automatic suspension shall be made permanent or whether the registration shall be revoked or the guard otherwise disciplined. In enacting this provision, the Legislature finds and declares that registered guards convicted of the commission of crimes reasonably related to the functions, duties, and responsibilities of a security guard shall be subject to automatic suspension of their license and that summary suspension is justified by compelling state interests of public safety and security within the meaning of the California Supreme Court’s decision in Eye Dog Foundation v. State Board of Guide Dogs for the Blind, 67 Cal. 2d 536.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.22. Section 7583.22.

(a) A licensee, qualified manager of a licensee, or security guard who, in the course of their employment, may be required to carry a firearm shall, prior to carrying a firearm, do all of the following: (1) Complete a course of training in the carrying and use of firearms. (2) Receive a firearms qualification card or be otherwise qualified to carry a firearm as provided in Section 7583.12. (b) A security guard who, in the course of their employment, may be required to carry a firearm, shall, prior to carrying a firearm, be found capable of exercising appropriate judgment, restraint, and self-control for the purposes of carrying and using a firearm during the course of their duties, pursuant to Section 7583.47. (c) A licensee shall not permit an employee to carry or use a loaded or unloaded firearm, whether or not it is serviceable or operative, unless the employee possesses a valid and current firearms qualification card issued by the bureau or is so otherwise qualified to carry a firearm as provided in Section 7583.12. (d) A pocket card issued by the bureau pursuant to Section 7582.13 may also serve as a firearms qualification card if so indicated on the face of the card. (e) Paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) shall not apply to either of the following: (1) A peace officer as defined in Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 830) of Title 3 of Part 2 of the Penal Code, who has successfully completed a course of study in the use of firearms within the 24 months preceding the date of the application. (2) A federal qualified law enforcement officer, as defined in Section 926B of Title 18 of the United States Code, who has successfully completed a course of study in the use of firearms within the 24 months preceding the date of application.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.23. Section 7583.23.

The bureau shall issue a firearms permit when all of the following conditions are satisfied: (a) The applicant is a licensee, a qualified manager of a licensee, or a registered security guard subject to the following: (1) The firearms permit may only be associated with the following: (A) A sole owner of a sole ownership licensee, pursuant to Section 7582.7 or 7525.1. (B) A partner of a partnership licensee, pursuant to Section 7582.7 or 7525.1. (C) A qualified manager of a licensee, pursuant to Section 7536 or 7582.22. (D) A security guard registrant. (2) If the firearms permit is associated with a security guard registration, they are subject to the provisions of Section 7583.47, regardless of any other license possessed or associated with the firearms permit. (b) (1) A bureau-certified firearms training instructor has certified that the applicant has successfully completed a written examination prepared by the bureau and training course in the carrying and use of firearms approved by the bureau within the six months preceding the date the application is submitted to the bureau. (2) An applicant who is a bureau-certified firearms training instructor is prohibited from self-certifying as having successfully carried out the requirements of paragraph (1) and shall instead carry out the requirements under another bureau-certified firearms training instructor. (c) The applicant has filed with the bureau a classifiable fingerprint card, a completed application for a firearms permit on a form prescribed by the director, dated and signed by the applicant, certifying under penalty of perjury that the information in the application is true and correct. In lieu of a classifiable fingerprint card, the applicant may submit fingerprints into an electronic fingerprinting system administered by the Department of Justice. An applicant who submits their fingerprints by electronic means shall have their fingerprints entered into the system through a terminal operated by a law enforcement agency or other facility authorized by the Department of Justice to conduct electronic fingerprinting. The terminal operator may charge a fee sufficient to reimburse it for the costs incurred in providing this service. (d) The applicant is at least 21 years of age and the bureau has determined, after investigation, that the carrying and use of a firearm by the applicant, in the course of their duties, presents no apparent threat to the public safety, or that the carrying and use of a firearm by the applicant is not in violation of the Penal Code. (e) The applicant has produced evidence to the firearm training facility that the applicant is a citizen of the United States or has permanent legal immigration status in the United States. Evidence of citizenship or permanent legal immigration status shall be deemed sufficient by the bureau to ensure compliance with federal laws prohibiting possession of firearms by persons unlawfully in the United States and may include, but not be limited to, United States Department of Justice, Immigration and Naturalization Service Form I-151 or United States Citizenship and Immigration Services Form I-551 (Permanent Resident Card), naturalization documents, or birth certificates evidencing lawful residence or status in the United States. (f) The application is accompanied by the application fees prescribed in this chapter. (g) (1) If the applicant is a registered security guard and they have been found capable of exercising appropriate judgment, restraint, and self-control, for the purposes of carrying and using a firearm during the course of their duties, pursuant to Section 7583.47. (2) The requirement in paragraph (1) shall be completed within six months preceding the date the application is submitted to the bureau.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.24. Section 7583.24.

(a) The bureau shall not issue a firearm permit if the applicant is prohibited from possessing, receiving, owning, or purchasing a firearm pursuant to state or federal law. (b) Before issuing an initial firearm permit the bureau shall provide the Department of Justice with the name, address, social security number, and fingerprints of the applicant. (c) The Department of Justice shall inform the bureau, within 60 days from receipt of the information specified in subdivision (b), of the applicant’s eligibility to possess, receive, purchase, or own a firearm pursuant to state and federal law. (d) An applicant who has been denied a firearm permit based upon subdivision (a) may reapply for the permit after the prohibition expires. The bureau shall treat this application as an initial application and shall follow the required screening process as specified in this section.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.25. Section 7583.25.

(a) The bureau shall not renew a firearm permit if the applicant is prohibited from possessing, receiving, purchasing, or owning a firearm pursuant to state or federal law. (b) Before renewing a firearm permit, the bureau shall provide the Department of Justice with the information necessary to identify the renewal applicant. (c) The Department of Justice shall inform the bureau, within 30 days of receipt of the information specified in subdivision (b), of the renewal applicant’s eligibility to possess, receive, purchase, or own a firearm pursuant to state and federal law. (d) An applicant who is denied a firearm permit renewal based upon subdivision (a) may reapply for the permit after the prohibition expires. The bureau shall treat this as an initial application and shall follow the screening process specified in Section 7583.24.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.26. Section 7583.26.

(a) The Department of Justice may charge the bureau a fee sufficient to reimburse the department’s costs for furnishing firearm eligibility information upon submission of the application for issuance or renewal of a firearm permit. The fee charged shall not exceed the actual costs for system development, maintenance, and processing necessary to provide this service. (b) The bureau shall collect the fee described in subdivision (a) for all initial and renewal applications for firearm permits.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.27. Section 7583.27.

(a) A firearm permit may be revoked if at any time the Department of Justice notifies the bureau that the holder of the firearm permit is prohibited from possessing, receiving, or purchasing a firearm pursuant to state or federal law. Following the automatic revocation, an administrative hearing shall be provided upon written request to the bureau in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. (b) The bureau may seek an emergency order pursuant to Article 13 (commencing with Section 11460.10) of Chapter 4.5 of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code against the holder of the firearms permit if, after the bureau’s investigation relating to any of the following events, the bureau determines that the holder of the firearms permit presents an undue hazard to public safety that may result in substantial injury to another: (1) Receipt of subsequent arrest information of an arrest for any of the following: (A) Assault. (B) Battery. (C) Any use of force or violence on any person committed by the permitholder. (2) A report from a bureau-approved firearms training facility or instructor made pursuant to Section 7585.18. (3) A report from the permitholder’s employer or former employer that the permitholder may be a threat to public safety. (4) A complaint filed by any member of the public that the permitholder may be a threat to public safety.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.28. Section 7583.28.

If an applicant fails to complete his or her application within one year after it has been filed, the application shall be considered to be abandoned. An application submitted subsequent to the abandonment of the former application shall be treated as a new application.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.29. Section 7583.29.

If a firearms permit is denied, the denial of the permit shall be in writing and shall describe the basis for the denial. The denial shall inform the applicant that if the applicant desires a review by a disciplinary review committee to contest the denial, the review shall be requested of the director within 30 days following notice of the issuance of the denial. A review or hearing shall be held pursuant to Section 7581.3. However, no review or hearing shall be granted to an individual who is otherwise prohibited by law from carrying a firearm.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.30. Section 7583.30.

The firearms qualification card, if issued, shall be mailed to the applicant at the address which appears on the application. In the event of the loss or destruction of the card, the cardholder may apply to the bureau for a certified replacement of the card, stating the circumstances surrounding the loss, and pay the fee prescribed in this chapter, whereupon the bureau shall issue a certified replacement of the card.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.31. Section 7583.31.

A firearms qualification card does not authorize the holder thereof to carry a pistol, revolver, or other firearm capable of being concealed upon the person in a concealed manner pursuant to Section 26150, 26155, 26170, or 26215 of the Penal Code.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.32. Section 7583.32.

(a) A firearms qualification card expires two years from the date of issuance, if not renewed. A person who wishes to renew a firearms qualification card shall file an application for renewal at least 60 days prior to the card’s expiration. A person whose card has expired shall not carry a firearm until that person has been issued a renewal card by the bureau. (b) The bureau shall not renew a firearms qualification card unless all of the following conditions are satisfied: (1) The cardholder has filed with the bureau a completed application for renewal of a firearms qualification card, on a form prescribed by the director, dated and signed by the applicant under penalty of perjury certifying that the information on the application is true and correct. (2) (A) The applicant has requalified on the range and has successfully passed a written examination based on course content as specified in the firearms training manual approved by the department and taught at a training facility approved by the bureau. (B) An applicant who is a bureau-certified firearms training instructor is prohibited from self-certifying as having successfully carried out the requirements of subparagraph (A) and shall instead carry out the requirements under another bureau-certified firearms training instructor. (3) The application is accompanied by a firearms requalification fee as prescribed in this chapter. (4) The applicant has produced evidence to the firearm training facility, either upon receiving their original qualification card or upon filing for renewal of that card, that the applicant is a citizen of the United States or has permanent legal immigration status in the United States. Evidence of citizenship or permanent legal immigration status is that deemed sufficient by the bureau to ensure compliance with federal laws prohibiting possession of firearms by persons unlawfully in the United States and may include, but not be limited to, the United States Department of Justice, Immigration and Naturalization Service Form I-151 or United States Citizenship and Immigration Services Form I-551 (Permanent Resident Card), naturalization documents, or birth certificates evidencing lawful residence or status in the United States. (c) An expired firearms qualification card may not be renewed. A person with an expired registration is required to apply for a new firearms qualification in the manner required of persons not previously registered. A person whose card has expired shall not carry a firearm until that person has been issued a new firearms qualification card by the bureau. (d) Paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) shall not apply to: (1) A duly appointed peace officer, as defined in Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 830) of Title 3 of Part 2 of the Penal Code, who is authorized to carry a firearm in the course of the officer’s duties and who has successfully completed requalification training within the 12 months preceding the month of the permit’s expiration. (2) A federal qualified law enforcement officer, as defined in Section 926B of Title 18 of the United States Code (18 U.S.C. Sec. 926B), who is authorized to carry a firearm in the course of the officer’s duties and who has successfully completed requalification training within the 12 months preceding the month of the permit’s expiration.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.35. Section 7583.35.

Every licensee, qualified manager, or a registered uniformed security guard, who in the course of his or her employment carries tear gas or any other nonlethal chemical agent, shall complete the required course pursuant to Section 22835 of the Penal Code.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.36. Section 7583.36.

A licensee shall not permit any employee to carry tear gas or any other nonlethal chemical agent prior to ascertaining that the employee is proficient in the use of tear gas or other nonlethal chemical agent. Evidence of proficiency shall include a certificate from a training facility approved by the Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Security and Investigative Services that the person is proficient in the use of tear gas or any other nonlethal chemical agent.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.37. Section 7583.37.

The director may assess fines as enumerated in Article 7 (commencing with Section 7587). Assessment of administrative fines shall be independent of any other action by the bureau or any local, state, or federal governmental agency that may result from a violation of this article. In addition to other prohibited acts under this chapter, no licensee, qualified manager, or registered security guard shall, during the course and scope of licensed activity, do any of the following: (a) Carry any inoperable, replica, or other simulated firearm. (b) Use a firearm in violation of the law, or in knowing violation of the standards for the carrying and usage of firearms as taught in the course of training in the carrying and use of firearms. Unlawful or prohibited uses of firearms shall include, but not be limited to, the following: (1) Illegally using, carrying, or possessing a dangerous weapon. (2) Brandishing a weapon. (3) Drawing a weapon without proper cause. (4) Provoking a shooting incident without cause. (5) Carrying or using a firearm while on duty while under the influence of alcohol or dangerous drugs. (6) Carrying or using a firearm of a caliber for which a firearms permit has not been issued by the bureau. (7) Carrying or using a firearm while performing duties not related to the qualifying license or registration to which the bureau associated the firearms permit. (c) Carry or use a baton in the performance of their duties, unless they have in their possession a valid baton certificate. (d) Carry or use tear gas or any other nonlethal chemical agent in the performance of their duties unless they have in their possession proof of completion of a course in the carrying and use of tear gas or any other nonlethal chemical agent. (e) Carry a concealed pistol, revolver, or other firearm capable of being concealed upon the person unless one of the following circumstances applies: (1) The person has been issued a permit to carry a pistol, revolver, or other firearm capable of being concealed upon the person in a concealed manner by a local law enforcement agency pursuant to Section 26150, 26155, 26170, or 26215 of the Penal Code. (2) The person is employed as a guard or messenger of a common carrier, bank, or other financial institution and they carry the weapon while actually employed in and about the shipment, transportation, or delivery of any money, treasure, bullion, bonds, or other thing of value within this state, as specified in Section 25630 of the Penal Code. (3) The person is an honorably retired peace officer authorized to carry a concealed firearm pursuant to Section 25650 of the Penal Code or Article 2 (commencing with Section 25450) of Chapter 2 of Division 5 of Title 4 of Part 6 of the Penal Code. (4) The person is a duly appointed peace officer, as defined in Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 830) of Title 3 of Part 2 of the Penal Code, who is authorized to carry a concealed firearm in the course and scope of their employment pursuant to Article 2 (commencing with Section 25450) of Chapter 2 of Division 5 of Title 4 of Part 6 of the Penal Code. (f) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2024.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.38. Section 7583.38.

A city, county, or city and county may regulate the uniforms and insignias worn by uniformed employees of a private patrol operator and vehicles used by a private patrol operator to make the uniforms and vehicles clearly distinguishable from the uniforms worn by, and the vehicles used by, local regular law enforcement officers.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.39. Section 7583.39.

(a) The bureau shall require, as a condition precedent to the issuance, reinstatement, reactivation, renewal, or continued maintenance of a license, that the applicant or licensee file or have on file with the bureau, an insurance policy, as defined in Section 7583.40. (b) If a licensee fails to maintain sufficient insurance, as required by this section, or fails to provide proof of the required insurance policy upon request by the bureau, the license shall be automatically suspended by operation of law until the date that the licensee provides proof to the bureau of compliance with the insurance coverage requirement. Prior to an automatic suspension, the bureau shall notify the licensee, in writing, that it has 30 days to provide proof to the bureau of having the required insurance policy or the license shall be automatically suspended. (c) (1) A Certificate of Liability Insurance issued by an authorized agent or employee of the insurer shall be submitted to the bureau electronically, or in a manner authorized by the bureau, for an insurance policy secured by a licensee in satisfaction of this section. The insurer shall list the bureau as the certificate holder for the purposes of receiving notifications related to the policy’s status. (2) An insurer issuing a Certificate of Liability Insurance pursuant to paragraph (1) shall report the following information to the bureau for an insurance policy required by this section: (A) The name of the insured. (B) The licensee’s license number. (C) The policy number. (D) The dates that coverage is scheduled to commence and end. (E) The cancellation date, if applicable.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.40. Section 7583.40.

“Insurance policy,” as used in this article, means a commercial general liability policy of insurance issued by an insurance company authorized to transact business in this state that provides minimum limits of insurance of one million dollars ($1,000,000) for any one loss or occurrence due to bodily injury, including death, or property damage, or both.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.45. Section 7583.45.

(a) (1) Every security guard working on the property of a K–12 school district or community college district pursuant to a contract with a private licensed security agency shall complete the latest course of training developed by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services of the Department of Consumer Affairs. The course shall be developed in consultation with the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training. (2) For purposes of this subdivision, “school district” includes a school district, county office of education, and charter school. (b) (1) A security guard required to register pursuant to this chapter who completes the course of training specified in subdivision (a) shall not be hired on contract to work and shall not continue to work as a school security officer on the property of a K–12 school district or community college district unless both of the following conditions are met: (A) (i) The applicant or contracted employee has submitted two copies of their fingerprints on forms or electronically, as prescribed by the Department of Justice, to the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services of the Department of Consumer Affairs. The Bureau of Security and Investigative Services of the Department of Consumer Affairs shall submit the fingerprints to the Department of Justice, which shall submit one copy of the fingerprints to the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation. (ii) An applicant or contracted employee who holds a permanent registration with the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services as a security guard need only submit one copy of their fingerprints, which copy shall be submitted to the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation. (iii) An applicant or contracted employee who is registered by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services, and who holds a firearms qualification card as specified in Section 7583.22, is exempt from the requirements of this subdivision. (B) The applicant or contracted employee has been determined not to be prohibited from employment by a K–12 school district pursuant to Sections 44237 and 45122.1 of the Education Code or legally prohibited from employment by a community college, and had been determined by the Department of Justice not to be a person prohibited from possessing a firearm if the applicant is required to carry a firearm. (2) The Department of Justice may participate in the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) in lieu of submitting fingerprints to the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation in order to meet the requirements of this subdivision relating to firearms. (c) For purposes of this section, “security guard” means any person primarily employed or assigned to provide security services as a watchperson, security guard, or patrolperson on or about premises owned or operated by a school district to protect persons or property, to prevent the theft or unlawful taking of district property of any kind, or to report any unlawful activity to the district and local law enforcement agencies.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.46. Section 7583.46.

(a) (1) It shall be a violation of Section 1102.5 of the Labor Code for a private patrol operator to discharge, demote, threaten, or in any manner discriminate against an employee in the terms and conditions of his or her employment, for disclosing information or causing information to be disclosed, to a government or law enforcement agency, when the information is related to conduct proscribed in this chapter. (2) A private patrol operator who intentionally violates this subdivision shall be liable in an action for damages brought against him or her by the injured party. (b) A person who believes that he or she has been discharged, demoted, threatened, or in any other manner discriminated against in the terms and conditions of his or her employment, because that person disclosed or caused information to be disclosed to a government or law enforcement agency, may bring a claim against the private patrol operator within three years of the date of the discharge, demotion, threat, or discrimination. (c) Neither the bureau nor the department is responsible for resolving claims under this section.

Cal. Business and Professions Code - BPC § 7583.47. Section 7583.47.

(a) As used in this section, “assessment” means the application of a testing instrument identified by the bureau that evaluates whether an applicant for a firearms permit who is a registered security guard, at the time of the assessment, possesses appropriate judgment, restraint, and self-control for the purposes of carrying and using a firearm during the course of their security guard duties. (b) The applicant shall complete the assessment, as specified in this section. (c) (1) The bureau shall implement a process to administer the assessment specified in this section. The establishment of the assessment and the process for administering the assessment shall not be subject to the requirements of Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. (2) The bureau shall consult with a California licensed psychologist, psychologists, or other persons with subject matter expertise, whose minimum duties shall include, but are not limited to, assisting the bureau with all of the following: (A) Establishing criteria for a contract with a vendor to administer the assessment. (B) Identifying minimum standards for the assessment. (C) Evaluating currently available assessments. (D) Providing consultative services on the bids received by the bureau from third-party vendors seeking to administer and interpret the assessment, to ensure both of the following: (i) Compliance with the applicable standards of care for the administration and interpretation of such assessments. (ii) The assessment will be administered in accordance with the assessment manufacturer’s requirements. (3) The bureau shall contract with a third-party vendor to administer the assessment. All third-party vendors seeking to administer the assessment must meet the minimum standards established by the bureau, its consultants, and the assessment manufacturer’s requirements for administering the assessment. Considerations for the third-party vendor contract shall include, but are not limited to, all of the following: (A) Cost to the applicant to complete the assessment. (B) Geographic accessibility statewide of the assessment to applicants. (C) Assessment compliance with the established minimum standards for the assessment and assessment process. (D) Ensuring an assessment carried out on an applicant complies with the applicable professional standards of care for such assessments, as well as the assessment manufacturer’s requirements for administering the assessment. (d) The applicant, or the applicant’s designee or employer if the employer voluntarily chooses, shall bear the cost of the assessment. (e) Within 30 days of administering an applicant’s assessment, the vendor shall directly provide the bureau, on a form and in a manner prescribed by the bureau, the applicant’s assessment results. If the results of the applicant’s assessment indicate that the applicant is incapable of exercising appropriate judgment, restraint, and self-control for the purposes of carrying and using a firearm during the course of the applicant’s duties, at the point in time of the evaluation, the bureau shall not issue a firearms permit. If the applicant fails the assessment, the applicant may complete another assessment no earlier than 180 days after the results of the previous assessment are provided to the bureau. (f) The application shall be deemed incomplete until the bureau receives the results of the applicant’s assessment and the results indicate that the applicant is capable of exercising appropriate judgment, restraint, and self-control for the purposes of carrying and using a firearm during the course of the applicant’s duties. (g) Notwithstanding any other law, an applicant who fails the assessment shall not be entitled to an administrative hearing or an appeal subject to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. However, such an applicant who is denied a firearms permit may request review of the denial pursuant to Section 7583.29. (h) The bureau may prescribe, adopt, and enforce emergency regulations, and promulgate regulations to implement this section. Any emergency regulation prescribed, adopted, or enforced pursuant to this section shall be adopted in accordance with Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, and for purposes of that chapter, including Section 11349.6 of the Government Code, the adoption of the regulation is an emergency and shall be considered by the Office of Administrative Law as necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health and safety, and general welfare. (i) The assessment required pursuant to this section shall be subject to review by the appropriate policy committees of the Legislature. The review shall be performed as if this section was scheduled to be repealed as of January 1, 2029. (j) Nothing in this section requires any private business entity that contracts with the bureau for the administration of the assessment to produce documents related to the content, methodology, results, or scoring criteria of the assessment, or any trade secret, as defined in subdivision (d) of Section 3426.1 of the Civil Code, for any private individual, firm, copartnership, association, or corporation.
Source: CA Legislative Counsel Bulk DataURL: https://downloads.leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/pubinfo_2025.zipFetched: 6/27/2026

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