Security guard training in California

40 security guard programs with costs, results and funding that can make them free

25 schools offer these security guard programs, and California has approved every one for workforce funding. Each shows its price if you pay yourself and how past students did.

Security guards protect property from illegal activity. Most states require a license, which usually means being 18 or older, passing a background check and completing training; most guards learn the job in a few weeks. Armed guards need weapons training and usually a separate license.¹

In California, 20 of the 40 programs take students without a high school diploma, 18 ask for a diploma or equivalent and 2 ask for earlier courses first.

By kind, the 40 programs here are security guard license course (29 programs), armed security and firearms course (8 programs), short add-on course (2 programs) and security program or diploma (1 program).

See the 40 programs

How much does security guard training cost in California?

$420 to $2,450 is what most security guard programs in California cost if you pay yourself

That is the middle half of the 39 programs with a price. All of them: $110 to $14,486

In the typical program

Finished the program: 98%
Working 6 months later: 74%
Earned a year, estimated: about $32,800
Length: 1 to 5 weeks

Source: US Department of Labor, program year 2024 (July 2024 to June 2025). Only programs approved for workforce funding are listed; other schools in California may also offer security guard training. How these figures are made

Is there free security guard training in California?

Yes, if you qualify. WIOA (public workforce funding) can pay for any program on this page, in full or in part, depending on local limits.²³⁴In program year 2024 it paid toward the training of at least 1,623 people at 18 of the 40 programs here.
Ask an American Job Center whether you qualify, or call 1-877-872-5627.⁵ Before funding training, the center goes through an assessment and a career plan with you.⁴
Or pay yourself. Most security guard programs in California cost $420 to $2,450. Prices on this page run from $110 to $14,486.

Who qualifies, and other ways to pay: financial aid, grants and the GI Bill

All 40 security guard programs in California approved for WIOA funding

40 programs

Security guard license courseIn personNo diploma needed
Security Officer Training
EdNet Career Institute, Inc
Woodland Hills
No diploma needed
EdNet Career Institute, Inc, Woodland HillsSecurity guard license courseIn person · No diploma needed
Earned a year, estimated$34,600
Price if you pay yourself$2,350
744 students trained with WIOA funding
Program website, Security Officer Training at EdNet Career Institute, Inc
More details about Security Officer Training at EdNet Career Institute, Inc
Finished
99%
Working at 6 months
76%
Earned in a quarter
$8,640
Length
3 weeks, 32 hours a week
Cost of supplies
None listed
Students counted
906
Earned a year, estimated
$34,600
Price if you pay yourself
$2,350
students trained with WIOA funding
744
Program website, Security Officer Training at EdNet Career Institute, Inc
Security guard license courseIn personHigh school diploma or equivalent
Security Officer 1
Los Angeles Technology Center - LAUSD
Los Angeles
High school diploma or equivalent
Los Angeles Technology Center - LAUSD, Los AngelesSecurity guard license courseIn person · High school diploma or equivalent
Earned a year, estimated$23,200
Price if you pay yourself$140
207 students trained with WIOA funding
Program website, Security Officer 1 at Los Angeles Technology Center - LAUSD
More details about Security Officer 1 at Los Angeles Technology Center - LAUSD
Finished
88%
Working at 6 months
48%
Earned in a quarter
$5,798
Length
3 weeks, 40 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$379
Students counted
358
Earned a year, estimated
$23,200
Price if you pay yourself
$140
students trained with WIOA funding
207
Program website, Security Officer 1 at Los Angeles Technology Center - LAUSD
Security guard license courseIn personHigh school diploma or equivalent
Security Officer Trainee
Los Angeles Technology Center - LAUSD
Los Angeles
High school diploma or equivalent
Los Angeles Technology Center - LAUSD, Los AngelesSecurity guard license courseIn person · High school diploma or equivalent
Earned a year, estimated$37,100
Price if you pay yourself$315
7 students trained with WIOA funding
School website, Security Officer Trainee at Los Angeles Technology Center - LAUSD
More details about Security Officer Trainee at Los Angeles Technology Center - LAUSD
Finished
79%
Working at 6 months
66%
Earned in a quarter
$9,266
Length
6 weeks, 15 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$379
Students counted
325
Earned a year, estimated
$37,100
Price if you pay yourself
$315
students trained with WIOA funding
7
School website, Security Officer Trainee at Los Angeles Technology Center - LAUSD
Security guard license courseIn personEducation and courses
Professional Security Officer Training Program
Goodwill Serving the People of Southern Los Angeles County
Long Beach
Education and courses
Goodwill Serving the People of Southern Los Angeles County, Long BeachSecurity guard license courseIn person · Education and courses
Earned a year, estimated$32,600
Price if you pay yourself$1,096
17 students trained with WIOA funding
Program website, Professional Security Officer Training Program at Goodwill Serving the People of Southern Los Angeles County
More details about Professional Security Officer Training Program at Goodwill Serving the People of Southern Los Angeles County
Finished
100%
Working at 6 months
50%
Earned in a quarter
$8,160
Length
2 weeks, 30 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$150
Students counted
315
Earned a year, estimated
$32,600
Price if you pay yourself
$1,096
students trained with WIOA funding
17
Program website, Professional Security Officer Training Program at Goodwill Serving the People of Southern Los Angeles County
Security guard license courseIn personHigh school diploma or equivalent
Security Officer
Monrovia Community Adult School
Monrovia
High school diploma or equivalent
Monrovia Community Adult School, MonroviaSecurity guard license courseIn person · High school diploma or equivalent
Earned a year, estimated$40,000
Price if you pay yourself$1,195
113 students trained with WIOA funding
School website, Security Officer at Monrovia Community Adult School
More details about Security Officer at Monrovia Community Adult School
Finished
95%
Working at 6 months
67%
Earned in a quarter
$10,010
Length
1 week, 40 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$800
Students counted
210
Earned a year, estimated
$40,000
Price if you pay yourself
$1,195
students trained with WIOA funding
113
School website, Security Officer at Monrovia Community Adult School
Security guard license courseIn personNo diploma needed
Advanced Security Officer
Security & Firearms Training Academy Inc.
North Highlands
No diploma needed
Security & Firearms Training Academy Inc., North HighlandsSecurity guard license courseIn person · No diploma needed
Earned a year, estimated$37,200
Price if you pay yourself$2,600
142 students trained with WIOA funding
Program website, Advanced Security Officer at Security & Firearms Training Academy Inc.
More details about Advanced Security Officer at Security & Firearms Training Academy Inc.
Finished
96%
Working at 6 months
74%
Earned in a quarter
$9,288
Length
2 weeks, 40 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$895
Students counted
142
Earned a year, estimated
$37,200
Price if you pay yourself
$2,600
students trained with WIOA funding
142
Program website, Advanced Security Officer at Security & Firearms Training Academy Inc.
Security guard license courseIn personHigh school diploma or equivalent
Security Guard - Unarmed
Azusa Adult Education Center
Azusa
High school diploma or equivalent
Azusa Adult Education Center, AzusaSecurity guard license courseIn person · High school diploma or equivalent
Earned a year, estimated$40,600
Price if you pay yourself$1,715
Program website, Security Guard - Unarmed at Azusa Adult Education Center
More details about Security Guard - Unarmed at Azusa Adult Education Center
Finished
100%
Working at 6 months
80%
Earned in a quarter
$10,140
Length
1 week, 40 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$280
Students counted
131
Earned a year, estimated
$40,600
Price if you pay yourself
$1,715
Program website, Security Guard - Unarmed at Azusa Adult Education Center
Security guard license courseIn personNo diploma needed
Security Guard Training
Police Science Institute
Fresno
No diploma needed
Police Science Institute, FresnoSecurity guard license courseIn person · No diploma needed
Earned a year, estimated$33,200
Price if you pay yourself$4,958
111 students trained with WIOA funding
Program website, Security Guard Training at Police Science Institute
More details about Security Guard Training at Police Science Institute
Finished
99%
Working at 6 months
80%
Earned in a quarter
$8,299
Length
4 weeks, 35 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$2,537
Students counted
111
Earned a year, estimated
$33,200
Price if you pay yourself
$4,958
students trained with WIOA funding
111
Program website, Security Guard Training at Police Science Institute
Security guard license courseIn personHigh school diploma or equivalent
Private Security Officer (Unarmed)
Employed Security Service Center, Inc.
Long Beach
High school diploma or equivalent
Employed Security Service Center, Inc., Long BeachSecurity guard license courseIn person · High school diploma or equivalent
Earned a year, estimated$19,300
Price if you pay yourself$626
70 students trained with WIOA funding
Program website, Private Security Officer (Unarmed) at Employed Security Service Center, Inc.
More details about Private Security Officer (Unarmed) at Employed Security Service Center, Inc.
Finished
100%
Working at 6 months
71%
Earned in a quarter
$4,818
Length
1 week, 40 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$124
Students counted
100
Earned a year, estimated
$19,300
Price if you pay yourself
$626
students trained with WIOA funding
70
Program website, Private Security Officer (Unarmed) at Employed Security Service Center, Inc.
Security guard license courseIn personNo diploma needed
BSIS California Guard Card Training-40 Hours
West Los Angeles College
Culver City
Accredited school
No diploma needed
West Los Angeles College, Culver CitySecurity guard license course · Accredited schoolIn person · No diploma needed
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourself$499
School website, BSIS California Guard Card Training-40 Hours at West Los Angeles College
More details about BSIS California Guard Card Training-40 Hours at West Los Angeles College
Finished
100%
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
5 weeks, 8 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$253
Students counted
60
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
$499
School website, BSIS California Guard Card Training-40 Hours at West Los Angeles College
Armed security and firearms courseIn personHigh school diploma or equivalent
Private Security Officer (Armed)
Employed Security Service Center, Inc.
Long Beach
High school diploma or equivalent
Employed Security Service Center, Inc., Long BeachArmed security and firearms courseIn person · High school diploma or equivalent
Earned a year, estimated$36,400
Price if you pay yourself$808
16 students trained with WIOA funding
Program website, Private Security Officer (Armed) at Employed Security Service Center, Inc.
More details about Private Security Officer (Armed) at Employed Security Service Center, Inc.
Finished
100%
Working at 6 months
84%
Earned in a quarter
$9,100
Length
1 week, 40 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$342
Students counted
56
Earned a year, estimated
$36,400
Price if you pay yourself
$808
students trained with WIOA funding
16
Program website, Private Security Officer (Armed) at Employed Security Service Center, Inc.
Security program or diplomaIn personHigh school diploma or equivalent
Security Professional Program
Career Development Solutions, LLC
Anaheim
High school diploma or equivalent
Career Development Solutions, LLC, AnaheimSecurity program or diplomaIn person · High school diploma or equivalent
Earned a year, estimated$76,800
Price if you pay yourself$7,072
45 students trained with WIOA funding
Program website, Security Professional Program at Career Development Solutions, LLC
More details about Security Professional Program at Career Development Solutions, LLC
Finished
70%
Working at 6 months
75%
Earned in a quarter
$19,200
Length
22 weeks, 19 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$1,628
Students counted
52
Earned a year, estimated
$76,800
Price if you pay yourself
$7,072
students trained with WIOA funding
45
Program website, Security Professional Program at Career Development Solutions, LLC
Security guard license courseIn personHigh school diploma or equivalent
Professional Security Officer
Veterans Stand Together
South Gate
High school diploma or equivalent
Veterans Stand Together, South GateSecurity guard license courseIn person · High school diploma or equivalent
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourself$3,995
15 students trained with WIOA funding
Program website, Professional Security Officer at Veterans Stand Together
More details about Professional Security Officer at Veterans Stand Together
Finished
100%
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
6 weeks, 40 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$772
Students counted
51
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
$3,995
students trained with WIOA funding
15
Program website, Professional Security Officer at Veterans Stand Together
Security guard license courseHybridNo diploma needed
Hybrid Security Officer
Monrovia Community Adult School
Monrovia
No diploma needed
Monrovia Community Adult School, MonroviaSecurity guard license courseHybrid · No diploma needed
Earned a year, estimated$18,800
Price if you pay yourself$1,190
38 students trained with WIOA funding
Program website, Hybrid Security Officer at Monrovia Community Adult School
More details about Hybrid Security Officer at Monrovia Community Adult School
Finished
98%
Working at 6 months
68%
Earned in a quarter
$4,688
Length
1 week, 40 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$805
Students counted
48
Earned a year, estimated
$18,800
Price if you pay yourself
$1,190
students trained with WIOA funding
38
Program website, Hybrid Security Officer at Monrovia Community Adult School
Armed security and firearms courseHybridHigh school diploma or equivalent
Security Guard (with or without Firearm) Course
Imperial Valley Regional Occupational Program
El Centro
High school diploma or equivalent
Imperial Valley Regional Occupational Program, El CentroArmed security and firearms courseHybrid · High school diploma or equivalent
Earned a year, estimated$24,900
Price if you pay yourself$2,450
18 students trained with WIOA funding
Program website, Security Guard (with or without Firearm) Course at Imperial Valley Regional Occupational Program
More details about Security Guard (with or without Firearm) Course at Imperial Valley Regional Occupational Program
Finished
94%
Working at 6 months
75%
Earned in a quarter
$6,219
Length
7 weeks, 20 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$3,010
Students counted
45
Earned a year, estimated
$24,900
Price if you pay yourself
$2,450
students trained with WIOA funding
18
Program website, Security Guard (with or without Firearm) Course at Imperial Valley Regional Occupational Program
Security guard license courseIn personNo diploma needed
Security - Guard Card with mandated courses
Bassett Adult School
La Puente
No diploma needed
Bassett Adult School, La PuenteSecurity guard license courseIn person · No diploma needed
Earned a year, estimated$19,200
Price if you pay yourself$500
School website, Security - Guard Card with mandated courses at Bassett Adult School
More details about Security - Guard Card with mandated courses at Bassett Adult School
Finished
100%
Working at 6 months
100%
Earned in a quarter
$4,800
Length
1 week, 40 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$195
Students counted
41
Earned a year, estimated
$19,200
Price if you pay yourself
$500
School website, Security - Guard Card with mandated courses at Bassett Adult School
Armed security and firearms courseIn personHigh school diploma or equivalent
Security Officer - Armed
Monrovia Community Adult School
Monrovia
High school diploma or equivalent
Monrovia Community Adult School, MonroviaArmed security and firearms courseIn person · High school diploma or equivalent
Earned a year, estimated$34,100
Price if you pay yourself$2,500
32 students trained with WIOA funding
School website, Security Officer - Armed at Monrovia Community Adult School
More details about Security Officer - Armed at Monrovia Community Adult School
Finished
91%
Working at 6 months
70%
Earned in a quarter
$8,517
Length
2 weeks, 40 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$1,495
Students counted
34
Earned a year, estimated
$34,100
Price if you pay yourself
$2,500
students trained with WIOA funding
32
School website, Security Officer - Armed at Monrovia Community Adult School
Armed security and firearms courseHybridNo diploma needed
Hybrid Security Officer Armed
Monrovia Community Adult School
Monrovia
No diploma needed
Monrovia Community Adult School, MonroviaArmed security and firearms courseHybrid · No diploma needed
Earned a year, estimated$22,200
Price if you pay yourself$2,300
23 students trained with WIOA funding
Program website, Hybrid Security Officer Armed at Monrovia Community Adult School
More details about Hybrid Security Officer Armed at Monrovia Community Adult School
Finished
78%
Working at 6 months
73%
Earned in a quarter
$5,552
Length
2 weeks, 40 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$1,695
Students counted
23
Earned a year, estimated
$22,200
Price if you pay yourself
$2,300
students trained with WIOA funding
23
Program website, Hybrid Security Officer Armed at Monrovia Community Adult School
Security guard license courseIn personNo diploma needed
Advanced Private Security
Bassett Adult School
La Puente
No diploma needed
Bassett Adult School, La PuenteSecurity guard license courseIn person · No diploma needed
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourself$1,000
Program website, Advanced Private Security at Bassett Adult School
More details about Advanced Private Security at Bassett Adult School
Finished
100%
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
4 weeks, 32 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$595
Students counted
20
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
$1,000
Program website, Advanced Private Security at Bassett Adult School
Security guard license courseIn personNo diploma needed
Security Guard Card - Card Only
Bassett Adult School
La Puente
No diploma needed
Bassett Adult School, La PuenteSecurity guard license courseIn person · No diploma needed
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourself$300
Program website, Security Guard Card - Card Only at Bassett Adult School
More details about Security Guard Card - Card Only at Bassett Adult School
Finished
100%
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
2 weeks, 20 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$100
Students counted
18
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
$300
Program website, Security Guard Card - Card Only at Bassett Adult School
Security guard license courseHybridHigh school diploma or equivalent
Security Guard 1
Evans Community Adult School - LAUSD
Los Angeles
High school diploma or equivalent
Evans Community Adult School - LAUSD, Los AngelesSecurity guard license courseHybrid · High school diploma or equivalent
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourself$140
Program website, Security Guard 1 at Evans Community Adult School - LAUSD
More details about Security Guard 1 at Evans Community Adult School - LAUSD
Finished
34%
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
4 weeks, 10 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$565
Students counted
17
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
$140
Program website, Security Guard 1 at Evans Community Adult School - LAUSD
Security guard license courseIn personHigh school diploma or equivalent
Security Officer Trainee
Evans Community Adult School - LAUSD
Los Angeles
High school diploma or equivalent
Evans Community Adult School - LAUSD, Los AngelesSecurity guard license courseIn person · High school diploma or equivalent
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourself$315
Program website, Security Officer Trainee at Evans Community Adult School - LAUSD
More details about Security Officer Trainee at Evans Community Adult School - LAUSD
Finished
34%
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
9 weeks, 10 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$497
Students counted
17
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
$315
Program website, Security Officer Trainee at Evans Community Adult School - LAUSD
Security guard license courseIn personNo diploma needed
Security Services
Twilight Adult Education School
Pasadena
No diploma needed
Twilight Adult Education School, PasadenaSecurity guard license courseIn person · No diploma needed
Earned a year, estimated$19,400
Price if you pay yourself$1,245
6 students trained with WIOA funding
Program website, Security Services at Twilight Adult Education School
More details about Security Services at Twilight Adult Education School
Finished
100%
Working at 6 months
83%
Earned in a quarter
$4,859
Length
1 week, 40 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$750
Students counted
16
Earned a year, estimated
$19,400
Price if you pay yourself
$1,245
students trained with WIOA funding
6
Program website, Security Services at Twilight Adult Education School
Security guard license courseHybridHigh school diploma or equivalent
Fundamental Security Cohort (Hybrid)
Sentri Institute Inc.
Stanton
High school diploma or equivalent
Sentri Institute Inc., StantonSecurity guard license courseHybrid · High school diploma or equivalent
Earned a year, estimated$32,800
Price if you pay yourself$3,236
7 students trained with WIOA funding
More details about Fundamental Security Cohort (Hybrid) at Sentri Institute Inc.
Finished
100%
Working at 6 months
100%
Earned in a quarter
$8,193
Length
2 weeks, 40 hours a week
Cost of supplies
None listed
Students counted
15
Earned a year, estimated
$32,800
Price if you pay yourself
$3,236
students trained with WIOA funding
7
Armed security and firearms courseIn personHigh school diploma or equivalent
Armed Security Guard
Temple City Community Adult Education
Temple City
High school diploma or equivalent
Temple City Community Adult Education, Temple CityArmed security and firearms courseIn person · High school diploma or equivalent
Earned a year, estimated$21,400
Price if you pay yourself$2,450
12 students trained with WIOA funding
Program website, Armed Security Guard at Temple City Community Adult Education
More details about Armed Security Guard at Temple City Community Adult Education
Finished
92%
Working at 6 months
55%
Earned in a quarter
$5,351
Length
2 weeks, 40 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$1,545
Students counted
12
Earned a year, estimated
$21,400
Price if you pay yourself
$2,450
students trained with WIOA funding
12
Program website, Armed Security Guard at Temple City Community Adult Education
Security guard license courseIn personNo diploma needed
Security Guard Training and Certification
Washington Unified School District
Fresno
No diploma needed
Washington Unified School District, FresnoSecurity guard license courseIn person · No diploma needed
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourselfNot reported
More details about Security Guard Training and Certification at Washington Unified School District
Finished
70%
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
4 weeks, 8 hours a week
Cost of supplies
Not reported
Students counted
10
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
Not reported
Security guard license courseOnlineNo diploma needed
Security Officer - 16 Hours Online
Monrovia Community Adult School
Based in Monrovia, CA
No diploma needed
Monrovia Community Adult School, based in Monrovia, CASecurity guard license courseOnline · No diploma needed
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourself$110
Program website, Security Officer - 16 Hours Online at Monrovia Community Adult School
More details about Security Officer - 16 Hours Online at Monrovia Community Adult School
Finished
Not reported
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
1 week, 16 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$785
Students counted
Not reported
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
$110
Program website, Security Officer - 16 Hours Online at Monrovia Community Adult School
Security guard license courseOnlineNo diploma needed
Security Officer - 8 Hours Online
Monrovia Community Adult School
Based in Monrovia, CA
No diploma needed
Monrovia Community Adult School, based in Monrovia, CASecurity guard license courseOnline · No diploma needed
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourself$110
Program website, Security Officer - 8 Hours Online at Monrovia Community Adult School
More details about Security Officer - 8 Hours Online at Monrovia Community Adult School
Finished
Not reported
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
1 week, 8 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$485
Students counted
Not reported
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
$110
Program website, Security Officer - 8 Hours Online at Monrovia Community Adult School
Security guard license courseIn personNo diploma needed
Security Officer - 8 Hours
Monrovia Community Adult School
Monrovia
No diploma needed
Monrovia Community Adult School, MonroviaSecurity guard license courseIn person · No diploma needed
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourself$190
Program website, Security Officer - 8 Hours at Monrovia Community Adult School
More details about Security Officer - 8 Hours at Monrovia Community Adult School
Finished
Not reported
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
1 week, 8 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$505
Students counted
Not reported
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
$190
Program website, Security Officer - 8 Hours at Monrovia Community Adult School
Short add-on courseIn personNo diploma needed
School Security SB 1626
Bassett Adult School
La Puente
No diploma needed
Bassett Adult School, La PuenteShort add-on courseIn person · No diploma needed
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourself$200
Program website, School Security SB 1626 at Bassett Adult School
More details about School Security SB 1626 at Bassett Adult School
Finished
Not reported
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
1 week, 24 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$100
Students counted
Not reported
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
$200
Program website, School Security SB 1626 at Bassett Adult School
Short add-on courseIn personHigh school diploma or equivalent
School Security Officer 24 Hours
Employed Security Service Center, Inc.
Long Beach
High school diploma or equivalent
Employed Security Service Center, Inc., Long BeachShort add-on courseIn person · High school diploma or equivalent
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourself$340
Program website, School Security Officer 24 Hours at Employed Security Service Center, Inc.
More details about School Security Officer 24 Hours at Employed Security Service Center, Inc.
Finished
Not reported
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
1 week, 24 hours a week
Cost of supplies
None listed
Students counted
Not reported
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
$340
Program website, School Security Officer 24 Hours at Employed Security Service Center, Inc.
Armed security and firearms courseIn personNo diploma needed
Private Security Officer (Armed)
M-5 Training School of Protective Services
Lancaster
No diploma needed
M-5 Training School of Protective Services, LancasterArmed security and firearms courseIn person · No diploma needed
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourself$614
More details about Private Security Officer (Armed) at M-5 Training School of Protective Services
Finished
Not reported
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
1 week, 40 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$443
Students counted
Not reported
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
$614
Security guard license courseIn personNo diploma needed
Security Guard
College of the Redwoods
Eureka
Accredited school
No diploma needed
College of the Redwoods, EurekaSecurity guard license course · Accredited schoolIn person · No diploma needed
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourself$695
School website, Security Guard at College of the Redwoods
More details about Security Guard at College of the Redwoods
Finished
Not reported
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
7 weeks, 48 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$110
Students counted
Not reported
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
$695
School website, Security Guard at College of the Redwoods
Security guard license courseHybridNo diploma needed
Security Guard Training
Crossroad Recruitment & Training
Covina
No diploma needed
Crossroad Recruitment & Training, CovinaSecurity guard license courseHybrid · No diploma needed
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourself$850
More details about Security Guard Training at Crossroad Recruitment & Training
Finished
Not reported
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
3 weeks, 40 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$459
Students counted
Not reported
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
$850
Security guard license courseIn personHigh school diploma or equivalent
Security Guard
Temple City Community Adult Education
Temple City
High school diploma or equivalent
Temple City Community Adult Education, Temple CitySecurity guard license courseIn person · High school diploma or equivalent
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourself$1,100
School website, Security Guard at Temple City Community Adult Education
More details about Security Guard at Temple City Community Adult Education
Finished
Not reported
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
1 week, 40 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$895
Students counted
Not reported
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
$1,100
School website, Security Guard at Temple City Community Adult Education
Security guard license courseIn personHigh school diploma or equivalent
Advanced Private Security Academy
Downey Adult School
Downey
Accredited school
High school diploma or equivalent
Downey Adult School, DowneySecurity guard license course · Accredited schoolIn person · High school diploma or equivalent
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourself$1,499
School website, Advanced Private Security Academy at Downey Adult School
More details about Advanced Private Security Academy at Downey Adult School
Finished
Not reported
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
6 weeks, 19 hours a week
Cost of supplies
None listed
Students counted
Not reported
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
$1,499
School website, Advanced Private Security Academy at Downey Adult School
Security guard license courseIn personEducation and courses
Security Training Academy
San Antonio ROP
Pomona
Education and courses
San Antonio ROP, PomonaSecurity guard license courseIn person · Education and courses
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourself$2,100
Program website, Security Training Academy at San Antonio ROP
More details about Security Training Academy at San Antonio ROP
Finished
Not reported
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
5 weeks, 24 hours a week
Cost of supplies
None listed
Students counted
Not reported
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
$2,100
Program website, Security Training Academy at San Antonio ROP
Armed security and firearms courseIn personNo diploma needed
Security Guard-Armed
Azusa Adult Education Center
Azusa
No diploma needed
Azusa Adult Education Center, AzusaArmed security and firearms courseIn person · No diploma needed
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourself$2,910
School website, Security Guard-Armed at Azusa Adult Education Center
More details about Security Guard-Armed at Azusa Adult Education Center
Finished
Not reported
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
2 weeks, 40 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$1,085
Students counted
Not reported
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
$2,910
School website, Security Guard-Armed at Azusa Adult Education Center
Security guard license courseHybridNo diploma needed
Security Guard Apprenticeship
Dental Tech LLC
Vallejo
No diploma needed
Dental Tech LLC, VallejoSecurity guard license courseHybrid · No diploma needed
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourself$3,400
More details about Security Guard Apprenticeship at Dental Tech LLC
Finished
Not reported
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
6 weeks, 25 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$400
Students counted
Not reported
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
$3,400
Armed security and firearms courseIn personHigh school diploma or equivalent
Physical Security Specialist Program
Covered 6
Moorpark
High school diploma or equivalent
Covered 6, MoorparkArmed security and firearms courseIn person · High school diploma or equivalent
Earned a year, estimatedNot reported
Price if you pay yourself$14,486
More details about Physical Security Specialist Program at Covered 6
Finished
Not reported
Working at 6 months
Not reported
Earned in a quarter
Not reported
Length
5 weeks, 40 hours a week
Cost of supplies
$814
Students counted
Not reported
Earned a year, estimated
Not reported
Price if you pay yourself
$14,486

How to pay for security guard training in California

WIOA funding can pay for security guard training in California

Every program on this page is approved for it. Whether you qualify, how much your local area pays and how to apply are on our page Does WIOA pay for job training?

Financial aid and grants for security guard training

Most students can get federal student aid for college, career school or trade school. A Federal Pell Grant, unlike a loan, usually doesn't have to be repaid. Ask the school whether its program qualifies.⁶⁷

GI Bill for security guard training

Veterans, service members and qualified dependents can use GI Bill benefits for non-college training programs.⁸

The program list does not show which programs accept these. Ask the school.

Quick facts: Security guard training in California

programs with a price cost under $1,000: 17 of 39
security guard programs of any state: no state has more than California: Most

State comparisons use the same figures as the security guard training by state table: the middle program of each state, and only states with three or more schools for prices. Source: US Department of Labor, program year 2024 (July 2024 to June 2025).

Security guard training in Los Angeles, Fresno, Sacramento and other California cities

Los Angeles area31

Areas with 10 or more programs have a page of their own. Choosing another area filters the program list above. 1 more program is in 1 other area and 2 online.

Other training in California

How security guard training compares with the rest of public safety: First responder training in California

Where the California security guard program numbers come from

Which California security guard programs are on this list?

These are the security guard programs California approved for WIOA funding (public workforce funding under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act), as reported to the US Department of Labor for program year 2024 (July 2024 to June 2025). Each state keeps its approved programs on an eligible training provider list (ETPL).⁹ The list here covers programs approved as of June 30, 2025. Schools that never applied for approval are missing, so this is a part of what California offers.

How the prices and results of California security guard programs are measured

Prices are tuition and required fees for someone paying without workforce funding, as the school reported them; check the current price with the school. Results describe students who left each program in recent years, so they are no guarantee, and the yearly earnings are the reported quarter times four, an estimate. A program without a "Trained with WIOA funding" line may still take WIOA students. Where a field was left empty or withheld, the page says "Not reported", and "Left out" where a figure was filed but failed one of our checks; nothing is estimated to fill a gap. Where the numbers come from explains each figure in full.

Sources for the facts about security guard training in California

Show the 9 sourcesHide the sources

Nursing and patient care

Medical office and lab

General healthcare

Skilled trades

Transportation and logistics

Computers and IT

Business and office

Beauty and personal care

Public safety

Food and hospitality

Education and social services

Security guard training in California

How much does security guard training cost in California?

Is there free security guard training in California?

All 40 security guard programs in California approved for WIOA funding

Security Officer Training

Security Officer 1

Security Officer Trainee

Professional Security Officer Training Program

Security Officer

Advanced Security Officer

Security Guard - Unarmed