Quick Tips to Save Headaches
Tip #1.
We recommend you send a money order since it processes faster than a check. Make sure you make a photo copy of the money order and phone number on the back so you can track it. BSIS is notorious for losing papers.
Tip #2
We recommend that you proof-read your application. More than 70% of the applications we review, have an error that would have caused a LENGTHY delay. If you want us to review your application, our PPO review application fee is $500.00
Tip #3
Always visit the BSIS website on PPO FAQ for any updates. Here
is a link. Click here.
Tip #4
The Live Scan form must contain the ATT#. Some live scan facilities will forget to give you this form and it will delay the process of getting your PPO. Don’t know what an ATT number is? Subscribe to our newsletter.
Click here for a list of live scan facilities in your area.
Sundahl & Associates, Inc.
How do I start a security guard company?
Are you interested in starting a private security company in California? If so, you must consider operating costs, worker’s compensation insurance, and an errors and omissions insurance policy. You’ll be surprised at how much a simple thing like staples and paper will add up to your bill. Messing up during the application process can add more frustration.
Moving forward, there is something called a Private Patrol Operator aka “Licensee.” The Private Patrol Operator is the owner of the private security company. A corporation, partnership, or an individual may be the Private Patrol Operator.
Here are the requirements for a Private Patrol Operator (PPO) License.
1. 18 years or over.
2. Undergo a criminal history background check through the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI);
3. Have committed no offense or violation of the Private Security Services Act that would be grounds for license suspension or revocation.
4. Submit a $770.00 (company license fee) + $550.00 (qualified manager application fee) to BSIS.
5. Go to a live scan facility and pay the state and federal fees of $51 plus the cost of the service. The cost should be approximately $25.00.
6. You must get a commercial liability insurance policy. On average, expect to pay more or less $3,200.00 per year for a "basic policy" with minimal risk exposure.
Moving on, a PPO cannot legally operate the company without a QM (Qualified Manager). The QM and PPO may be the same person
To qualify as a QM the person must:
1. Be 18 or older.
2. Undergo a criminal history background check through the DOJ and the FBI.
3. Have committed no offense or violation of the Private Security Services Act that would be grounds for license suspension or revocation.
4. Have one year of experience (2,000 hours) as a patrolperson, guard, or watchperson, or the equivalent.
5. Pass a two-hour multiple-choice examination covering the Private Security Services Act and other rules and regulations, business knowledge, emergency procedures, security functions, and use of deadly weapons. A copy of the Private Security Services Act is available through this link: www.bsis.ca.gov/laws/pssact.shtml
6. Submit a completed application with two recent passport-quality photographs, a $550 application and examination fee and a Private Patrol Operator Live Scan form signed by the Live Scan Operator. Go to a live scan facility and pay the state and federal fees of $51 plus the cost of the service. The cost should be approximately $25.00.
Do you think you are ready? If so, click here to download the application.
Send your application to the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services, P.O. Box 989002, West Sacramento, CA 95798-9002.
Need study material for the PPO test? Click here.
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