To get a BSIS exposed firearm permit in California, you need a security guard card (or a guard card application filed at the same time), complete a Bureau-approved Course of Firearms Training, pass a written exam and range qualification, pass a separate firearms assessment, and submit your permit application with the required fee. Most applicants can complete the process in a matter of weeks once training is scheduled.

Before You Start: What You Need

A BSIS security guard card, or a pending guard card application: you can apply for the guard card and the exposed firearm permit at the same time. See our BSIS 8-Hour Guard Card Course if you still need one.
Eligibility to pass a background check, since firearm permits involve additional state and federal review beyond the standard guard card.
Time for the 14-hour BSIS firearms course (the Course of Firearms Training).

The Exposed Firearm Permit Process, Step by Step

Complete the Course of Firearms Training under California Code of Regulations section 635, covering firearm safety, legal authority, and use-of-force standards.
Pass the written exam and demonstrate live-fire qualification with the specific carry caliber you intend to use on duty.
Complete a separate firearms assessment within 6 months preceding your application, administered through PSI, which carries its own $69 fee.
Pass the BSIS background check required for firearm permit holders.
Submit your exposed firearm permit application along with the $110 initial application fee.

What’s New for 2026

As of 2026, if you are applying for your guard card at the same time, the guard card’s 8-hour pre-licensing training must be completed within 6 months of submitting your application, and it must be taught and certified by a single course provider rather than pieced together from multiple sources. Guard card applicants who let that training lapse past the 6-month window will need to retake it before applying.

Common Reasons Applications Get Delayed

Training completed outside the 6-month application window.
Missing or expired guard card at the time of application.
Incomplete firearms assessment paperwork submitted to PSI.
Qualifying with a different caliber than the one listed on the application.

Train With Focal Point Academy

Focal Point Academy is a Bureau-approved training provider offering the full Course of Firearms Training required for BSIS exposed firearm permits in San Diego County. Don’t have your guard card yet? Start with our BSIS 8-Hour Guard Card Course. See our full BSIS Armed Security Guide or contact us to schedule your training.