Obtaining a Private Patrol Operator License
To become a licensed Private Patrol Operator (PPO), specific requirements must be met. These requirements are outlined by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) (https://www.bsis.ca.gov/consumers/faqs/ppo.shtml).
General Requirements
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Possess at least one year of paid experience as a patrolman, guard, or watchman, totaling not less than 2,000 hours, or equivalent experience
- Pass a written examination
- Undergo a criminal history review by the Department of Justice and the FBI
Application Process
To apply for a PPO license, you can use the BreEZe online system (https://www.bsis.ca.gov/consumers/faqs/ppo.shtml) or submit your application and payment by mail to the BSIS (https://www.bsis.ca.gov/consumers/faqs/ppo.shtml).
Application Package
The application package should include the following forms:
Key Facts
- General Requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have at least one year of paid experience totaling not less than 2,000 hours as a patrolman, guard, or watchman, or the equivalent.
- Pass a written examination.
- Undergo a criminal history review by the Department of Justice and the FBI.
- Application Process:
- You can apply online using the BreEZe system, which can reduce the application processing time by up to two weeks. Alternatively, you can submit your application and payment by mail to the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services.
- Application Package:
- The application package must include the necessary forms, such as the Private Patrol Operator License Application and any additional required documents.
- Licensing Fee:
- The cost to apply for a private patrol operator license varies. You can refer to the fee schedule provided by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services for detailed information.
- License Renewal:
- A private patrol operator license is valid for two years. Prior to the expiration of the license, you will receive a courtesy renewal application. If you don’t receive it, you can complete and submit the Private Patrol Operator License Renewal Application along with the applicable renewal fee(s). Online renewal is also available through the BreEZe system.
- Private Patrol Operator Application for License (Form 31A-4)
- Personal Identification Form: Private Patrol Operator, Principals, Corporate Officers, and Private Patrol Operator Qualified Manager (Form 31A-9)
- Private Patrol Operator Request for Authorization of Business Name (Form 31A-12)
- Corporate applicants must provide a copy of endorsed Articles of Incorporation or Statement and Designation by a Foreign Professional Corporation Form, as well as a copy of the Statement of Information filed with the Secretary of State (SOS)
- Private Patrol Operator Qualified Manager Qualifying Experience (Form 31A-8)
Licensing Fee
The cost of applying for a PPO license varies. Refer to the BSIS fee schedule (https://www.bsis.ca.gov/consumers/faqs/ppo.shtml) for details.
License Renewal
A PPO license is valid for two years. Prior to expiration, a courtesy renewal application will be mailed to the last address on record. If you do not receive the application, complete and submit the Private Patrol Operator License Renewal Application along with the renewal fee(s). Online renewal is also available through BreEZe (https://www.bsis.ca.gov/consumers/faqs/ppo.shtml).
Sources
- California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services: Frequently Asked Questions – Private Patrol Operator (PPO) (https://www.bsis.ca.gov/consumers/faqs/ppo.shtml)
- PalAmerican Security: How to Become a Security Guard in Texas (https://palamerican.com/palamerican-security/how-to-become-a-security-guard-in-texas/)
- Top Gun Security Services: Level 4 (PPO) Security Guard License Training – Texas (https://topgunsecurityservices.com/training-academy/houston-academy/level-iv-security-guard-ppo-training)
FAQs
What are the general requirements to obtain a PPO license?
To obtain a PPO license, you must be at least 18 years old, have at least one year of paid experience as a patrolman, guard, or watchman (or equivalent experience), pass a written examination, and undergo a criminal history review.
How do I apply for a PPO license?
You can apply for a PPO license online using the BreEZe system or by submitting a paper application and payment to the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS).
What forms are required to be included in the application package?
The application package should include the Private Patrol Operator Application for License (Form 31A-4), Personal Identification Form (Form 31A-9), Private Patrol Operator Request for Authorization of Business Name (Form 31A-12), and Private Patrol Operator Qualified Manager Qualifying Experience (Form 31A-8).
How much does it cost to apply for a PPO license?
The cost of applying for a PPO license varies. Refer to the BSIS fee schedule for details.
How long is a PPO license valid for?
A PPO license is valid for two years.
How do I renew my PPO license?
Prior to the expiration of your PPO license, you will receive a courtesy renewal application. You can renew your license online using BreEZe or by submitting a paper application and payment to the BSIS.
What happens if my PPO license expires?
If your PPO license expires, you can renew it within three years of the expiration date. However, if you renew your license more than two years after expiration, you may need to contact the BSIS to determine the correct renewal fee amount.
Can I use a post office box as my business address for my PPO license?
Yes, you can use a post office box as your business address for your PPO license, but you must also provide the BSIS with your physical address.