The state of California regulates the security guard business for consumer and public protection. In order to work legally as a security guard in California, you need a license, commonly called a guard card. New security guards require a total of 40 hours of training before their permits are considered complete and solidified. Prospective guards in Bakersfield will find they have ample local resources to complete the training and receive a guard card.

Study the security guard requirements on the website of the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services to make sure that you meet all the security guard requirements including the detailed background check.

Enroll in an eight hour Power to Arrest training course authorized by the CBSIS. Bakersfield and Kern counties have at least two providers of these courses. Check schedules as trainers offer a variety of classes and the Power to Arrest class is not offered at all times.

Submit your course certificate of completion along with an application and payment to the CBSIS for processing. Provided you clear the background check, you will receive a provisional guard card. The processing time can take more than a month and you cannot legally work as a guard until you have the provisional card.

Complete at least 16 hours more training during your first 30 days working as a security guard in Bakersfield. You will need an additional 16 more hours before you reach the six month mark. Your same provider should offer all the courses required. Schedule early to make sure you hit your deadlines.

Send your certificates of completion to the CBSIS in order to receive your regular guard card. Follow up with the bureau if you don't receive acknowledgement within a few weeks of sending.