Bodyguard Training

1.  Get the California Guard Card

To legally work as a bodyguard in California, at minimum you need to register as a California security guard.  You will need a guard card and are required to obtain the 40-hours of training, as required by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services.  These are the same courses to meet the requirements of the California security guard.

Academy Security Training provides this training.

2.  Get the California Security Exposed Firearms Permit

This permit from BSIS is optional, as not all bodyguards are armed, but it is highly recommended for this line of work.  It shows your prospective employer that you regard your occupation as a bodyguard in a professional manner by possessing a credential that is vital in some situations.  

You will need to take a 14-hour BSIS-approved firearms course and qualify with a weapon.  Academy Security Training provides this training.

3.  Get the Certification in First Aid and CPR

This is an often overlooked area of knowledge but is important.  #1 - As a bodyguard responsible for protecting and ensuring the lives and safety of clients, knowing first aid and and CPR is crucial; the fact is, you may be called upon to save a life with this skillset.  #2 - In a competitive marketplace in the occupation of bodyguard, this shows your prospective employer or client that you have special expertise of benefit to them, and this will give you an edge in obtaining your contract or employment.  One day investment in time for training is all you need. 

The most recognized providers of this training are the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association.

4.  Unarmed Fighting Skills

Gaining proficiency in a martial arts is highly recommended.  We do not endorse one particular style, as the effectiveness depends on the individual.  Unarmed combat skills are required for the job of bodyguard.

5.  Get the Guard Permit for OC Pepper Spray

Non-lethal options are necessary in escalation of force scenarios.

Academy Security Training provides this training.

6.  Tactical Firearms Training

Academy Security Training will provide advice on how to effectively improve one's skillset in this area.  Close quarters combat (CQC), gun-knife-unarmed fighting interaction, firearms retention and take-away techniques should also be included.

7.  Concealed Firearms Permit

The optimal scenario is to obtain a California CCW gun permit.  However, it is difficult to obtain.  In the case of executive protection specialists and VIP bodyguards who travel often, a multi-state, non-resident CCW is highly recommended and is more easily attainable.

Academy Security Training has instructors who are certified to provide training for multi-state, non-resident CCW permits.  

8.  Get Specialized Bodyguard Training

Academy Security Training will provide advice on various options.  We will refer you to a specialist. 

One such referral for bodyguard training is Joseph Lasorsa, a US Secret Service agent, retired, who operates J.A. Lasorsa and Associates.  His company provides specialized protection expertise including physical security, bodyguard and executive protection services.  Also, he conducts seminars throughout the country, including here in California.  Click here for his company brochure.  Click here for his executive protection services.

Click here for J A Lasorsa and Associates.