For anyone hiring security in california
How do I check if a security company is licensed in California?
Short answer
Search the company name or license number at search.dca.ca.gov, the California Department of Consumer Affairs license lookup. A guard company needs a Private Patrol Operator (PPO) license from the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services, and each guard needs a guard card. State law also requires a PPO to carry at least $1,000,000 in general liability insurance.
Five things to verify before you sign
- PPO license. Look it up at search.dca.ca.gov. Check that it is current and that the name matches the contract.
- Insurance. Ask for a certificate of general liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence, and workers' compensation.
- Guard cards. Every officer must be registered with the state, which requires a Department of Justice and FBI background check and 40 hours of training in stages.
- Firearm permits. Armed officers need a separate BSIS exposed firearm permit.
- Who you will deal with. Ask who answers at 2 a.m. and who reviews the reports.
Ours
MT Security & Investigations is PPO 14929, and holds Private Investigator license PI 23720. We send certificates of insurance the same day you ask. More in our 10-point checklist for choosing a security company.
This is general information from a security company, not legal advice. Laws change and details matter, so confirm anything important with your attorney.
Talk to the owner, not a call center.
Call any hour. Michael or a supervisor answers, asks a few questions, and you have a written quote within about two hours.