# How to Verify a Licensed Security Company in California

By [Great America Security Team](https://greatamericasecurity.com/about.php) · Updated October 10, 2026 · 6 min read

**What this guide covers**
- [What a PPO license is](#ppo)

- [How to verify](#verify)

- [Red flags](#redflags)

To verify a licensed security company in California, check its BSIS Private Patrol Operator (PPO) number on the BSIS public lookup, confirm insurance and bonding, and verify that each guard holds a BSIS guard card.

## What a PPO License Is

In California, any company that provides security guards for a fee must hold a Private Patrol Operator (PPO) license issued by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). Individual guards must hold a BSIS guard card.

## How to Verify a Company

- Ask for the company\'s PPO license number.
- Run the number through the BSIS public license lookup.
- Request certificates of insurance and bonding.
- Confirm guard cards and training records.

## Red Flags

Be wary of any provider that refuses to share a PPO number, cannot provide insurance documentation, or hires guards without valid guard cards. Unlicensed coverage creates serious liability for your business.

**Our recommendation**
Great America Security is a licensed California security company serving [security guard services in Los Angeles, CA](https://greatamericasecurity.com/) since 2003. Contact us for our PPO number and certificates of insurance before you hire.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How do I check if a security company is licensed?

Ask for the company's BSIS PPO number and run it through the BSIS public license lookup, then request insurance and bonding documentation.

### What is a BSIS guard card?

A BSIS guard card is the license individual security guards in California must hold after completing required training and a background check.

### Are your guards licensed in California?

Yes, our guards complete BSIS-required training and background checks. Contact us for documentation.

**Related resources**
- [Best Security Guard Companies in Los Angeles](https://greatamericasecurity.com/blog/best-security-guard-companies-los-angeles.html)

- [About Great America Security](https://greatamericasecurity.com/about.php)

- [Security Guard Services in Los Angeles](https://greatamericasecurity.com/location/Los-Angeles/Security-Guard-Services/)

- [View all articles](https://greatamericasecurity.com/blog/)

**Great America Security Team** — We are a licensed California security guard company serving Los Angeles and Southern California since 2003. [Learn more about us](https://greatamericasecurity.com/about.php).

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