🔫 Quick Overview
SOTC offers 3 firearm-related training paths: (1) BSIS Firearms Permit for armed security officers, (2) Initial CCW training for civilians seeking a concealed carry permit, and (3) CCW Renewal for existing permit holders. All courses include range time. Expert instructors only.
Why Get Firearms Certified?
Armed security guards earn significantly more than unarmed guards. In California, armed guards typically earn $20–$35/hour — sometimes more for specialized roles like armored transport or executive protection. Adding a firearms cert to your resume opens doors that stay closed for unarmed guards.
You also get more job options. Banks, casinos, hospitals, courts, and high-value retail all prefer or require armed security. If you want the best security jobs, you need this certification.
BSIS Firearms Permit (for Security Guards)
If you're a licensed security guard (or getting your guard card), the BSIS Exposed Firearms Permit allows you to carry a firearm while on duty. This is different from a CCW permit — it's specifically for armed security work.
- ✓Who it's for: Security guards who want to carry a firearm while working
- ✓What you learn: Safe handling, marksmanship, legal authority, use of force law
- ✓Range time included: Qualify on the range with an SOTC instructor
- ✓Cost: $225 for initial course · $75 for requalification
- ✓BSIS requirement: Required before you can carry a firearm on any security job
California CCW (Concealed Carry Weapon) Permit
A CCW permit lets you carry a concealed handgun in public. In California, CCW permits are issued by your county sheriff's office. But first, you need to complete an approved training course. That's where SOTC comes in.
16-Hour CCW Initial Training at SOTC — $450
Our 16-hour CCW course meets California Penal Code 26165 requirements for an initial concealed carry permit application. Instructor Mike is a San Diego County Sheriff-approved CCW instructor who has trained hundreds of CCW applicants. We cover everything the Sheriff's office looks for.
- California CCW laws and regulations
- Safe storage and transportation of firearms
- Legal use of force — when you can and can't draw
- Handgun safety and handling fundamentals
- Live-fire range qualification
- Written test preparation and practice questions
- Certificate provided for your CCW application
8-Hour CCW Renewal Course — $225
California CCW permits require renewal. Under SB 2 (effective Jan 1, 2024), the renewal course is 8 hours. When your permit is approaching expiration, you need this renewal training before the San Diego County Sheriff will issue a new permit. SOTC's CCW renewal class covers current California law, updated use-of-force case law, and live-fire range requalification — everything the Sheriff's office requires for renewal.
How to Apply for a CCW in California
After completing training at SOTC, here's the general CCW application process in California:
- Complete approved training — SOTC provides your training certificate
- Contact your county sheriff — CCW permits are issued by county, not state. Requirements vary slightly by county
- Submit your application — Include your training certificate, ID, and application fee
- Fingerprints & background check — Standard DOJ process, usually takes a few weeks
- Interview (some counties) — Some sheriffs require a brief interview
- Receive your permit — If approved, your CCW permit arrives by mail
CCW Written Test Study Guide
Nervous about the written test? Don't be. SOTC provides a comprehensive study guide with practice questions and tips. Our students consistently pass on the first try.
View the Free CCW Study Guide →Firearms & CCW FAQs
Yes. The BSIS firearms permit is only for licensed security guards. You must have (or be in the process of getting) your California guard card before applying for the BSIS firearms permit. SOTC offers both in a convenient package — get your guard card and firearms cert at the same time.
No. A CCW (Concealed Carry Weapon) permit is a personal carry permit issued by your county sheriff. It allows you to carry a concealed firearm as a private citizen. A BSIS firearms permit is for armed security guards only — it allows you to carry a firearm while on duty as a licensed security officer. They are separate licenses with separate training requirements. SOTC offers both.
The test covers California firearms laws, safe handling practices, and legal use of force. If you take our training course and study our CCW study guide, you'll be prepared. Our pass rate is very high because we focus specifically on what's tested. Most students say the test is easier than they expected after going through our training materials.
Yes — and it's the smartest way to do it. Our Guard Card Packages bundle the guard card training with firearms certification and other specialty certs. You save money compared to taking courses separately, and you finish faster. Most Package students are job-ready within 2–3 weeks of starting.