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🔄 Guard Card Renewal Updated April 2026 • 7 min read

Your California security guard card is valid for 2 years. To keep it active, BSIS requires you to complete 8 hours of continuing education every year — 8 hours in your first year, and another 8 hours by the end of your second year before renewal.

Miss the deadline and your card lapses. The good news: you can knock out your annual 8-hour requirement online, at your own pace, for just $50.

⭐ Most Popular for Renewals

2026 BSIS Annual Security Guard Refresher — Just $50

8 hours • Fully online • BSIS-approved • Covers all required renewal topics

Start Your Renewal — $50 →
8 hrs
Per Year
2 yrs
Card Validity
$50
Renewal Course
100%
Online

1 Complete Your Annual 8-Hour Refresher Course

BSIS requires 8 hours of continuing education every year you hold a guard card. The 2026 Annual Security Guard Refresher covers everything BSIS mandates — power to arrest, use of force, liability, public relations, and more.

What's covered: Power to Arrest • Appropriate Use of Force • Liability & Legal Aspects • Public Relations • Emergency Situations • Security Patrol Techniques

Take the 2026 Refresher — $50 →

2 Log Into Your BSIS Account and Submit Your CE

Once you finish the course, you'll receive a certificate of completion. Log in to the BSIS BreEZe portal at breeze.ca.gov, navigate to your license, and upload your certificate under "Continuing Education."

BSIS reviews submissions within a few business days. Keep a copy for your records. 

3 Renew Your Guard Card Before It Expires

Your guard card expires every 2 years. To renew, you must have all required CE hours on file with BSIS. Submit your renewal application through the BreEZe portal and pay the renewal fee (currently $50 for active status).

BSIS will mail your renewed card. Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks, so don't wait until the last minute.

⚠️ Don't Let Your Card Lapse

If your guard card expires, you cannot legally work as a security guard in California until it is reinstated. A lapsed card requires a separate reinstatement process and may delay your ability to work.

Complete your 8-hour annual refresher as early as possible each year — don't wait until renewal time.

🆕 New Applicant? You Need the 40-Hour Course

If you don't have a guard card yet, you need the full 40-hour guard card training — not the annual refresher. Get everything you need in one bundle:

Get the 40-Hour Bundle — $198 →

Frequently Asked Questions

How many CE hours do I need to renew my California guard card?

You need 8 hours of BSIS-approved continuing education every year. Over a 2-year card period, that means 8 hours in year one and 8 hours in year two, for a total of 16 hours before renewal.

Can I take the refresher course online?

Yes — the 2026 BSIS Annual Security Guard Refresher is 100% online and self-paced. Complete it on any device, at any time. You'll receive your certificate immediately upon passing.

How much does the annual refresher course cost?

The 2026 BSIS Annual Security Guard Refresher is $50. That covers 8 hours of BSIS-approved content, your completion certificate, and lifetime access to course materials.

What happens if I don't complete my continuing education on time?

If you don't complete your 8 annual CE hours and your card expires, you'll need to go through the BSIS reinstatement process before you can legally work security in California again. Stay current — complete your 8 hours each year.

Ready to Complete Your Annual Renewal?

8 hours online. BSIS-approved. Certificate included. Only $50.

Start the 2026 Refresher — $50 New Applicant? Get the 40-Hour Bundle