FAQ's
BSIS Exposed Firearm
What are the age and eligibility requirements for the BSIS Exposed Firearm Permit?
To be eligible for the BSIS Exposed Firearm Permit in California, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Possess a valid and current BSIS Guard Card
- Pass a psychological evaluation administered by PSI
- Complete a BSIS Firearm Permit training course
- Submit fingerprints via Live Scan using the Firearm Live scan form.
For more information regarding the exposed firearm permit, please visit https://www.bsis.ca.gov/forms_pubs/fire_fact.shtml
Is a psychological evaluation required for the BSIS Exposed Firearm Permit?
Yes. All applicants must undergo and pass a psychological evaluation conducted by PSI before applying for the firearm permit.
To schedule your appointment, please follow the following link:
For additional information on the BSIS psychological assessment, you can download the Firearms Assessment sheet at https://bsis.ca.gov/forms_pubs/fa_information_bulletin.pdf
Where do I complete the Live Scan for the Exposed Firearm Permit?
You must complete the BSIS- specific Live Scan for the Firearm Permit using the appropriate form from BSIS. You can select the link and download the form below:
Please complete all basic information on the form and take it to a live scan center to obtain your electronic fingerprints. For a list of providers in San Diego County, please click on the following link: https://oag.ca.gov/fingerprints/locations?county=San%20Diego
For a list of providers in Riverside County, please click on the following link:
California Concealed Carry (CCW)
Who is eligible to apply for a California CCW permit?
All Applicants must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Reside or work in the county of application
- Be at least 21 years old
- Complete required firearms training
- Pass a background check
Learn more from your local sheriff office here:
San Diego County Applicants:
Riverside County Applicants:
How many firearms can I qualify with?
There’s no limit. Your course fee covers qualification with two firearms, and it's $40 for each additional firearm.
Do I need to complete a Live Scan for a CCW permit?
Yes. If you are applying for a California Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) permit, most issuing agencies , including the San Diego and Riverside County Sheriffs — require a Live Scan fingerprint background check as part of your application process. However, this step is handled directly through the sheriff’s department, not through Focal Point Academy.
Here’s how it works:
Not part of training: Live Scan is not required to attend our CCW training courses, but it is required when you apply for a CCW permit with your sheriff's office.
Agency-specific: Each county has its own Live Scan procedure, fees, and submission forms.
CCW Renewal Course – 8 Hours
BSIS Security Guard Training
What are the steps to becoming a licensed BSIS Security Guard in California?
You must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Complete an 8-hour “Power to Arrest” training
- Submit a BSIS Guard Card application
- Complete a BSIS-approved Live Scan
Visit https://www.bsis.ca.gov/forms_pubs/guard_fact.shtml for more information and eligibility criteria.
Do I need a separate Live Scan for my Guard Card and Firearm Permit?
Yes. Each requires its own BSIS-specific Live Scan form:
Can I work as a guard before my Guard Card is issued?
You may work as a guard for up to 120 days with a pending application, as long as your Live Scan has been submitted and you’re enrolled in continuing education. Your employer must keep documentation.
Can I get a Guard Card with a criminal record?
It depends. BSIS reviews applications on a case-by-case basis. Certain felonies or violent misdemeanors may disqualify you. You are required to disclose all convictions during the application.
Intro to Handguns: Beginner Firearms
Is this for someone with no experience?
Absolutely. This course is built for beginners. You’ll learn firearm safety, handling, shooting stance, grip, and more—step by step.
What’s included?
Firearm use, range time, targets, and eye protection. Ammo is $40 per 50 rounds if needed.
Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) Prep Co
What is the FSC, and why do I need it?
The Firearm Safety Certificate is required to buy or transfer firearms in California.
Do I take the test during this course?
Yes, we’ll help you prepare and offer the test on-site after the course.