Armed security guards can provide the assurance and peace of mind you want when you require an additional degree of protection, whether for a company, residential neighborhood, or special occasion. However, choosing the first name you come across online isn’t the only way to hire the best staff. It all comes down to ensuring that the guards you select are qualified, insured, licensed, and genuinely able to manage dangerous circumstances with tact and expertise.
We’ll take you step-by-step through the process of hiring armed security guards in this blog. From determining your needs to ensuring the guards have the appropriate certification, we’ll take care of everything. And we’ll demonstrate how CitiGuard streamlines, secures, and customizes the process for you.
Step 1: Understand Your Needs
Before hiring anyone, take a moment to define why you need armed security guards.
- Are you dealing with high-value property?
- Is your location in a high-risk area?
- Are you managing large crowds or protecting VIPs?
- Do you need 24/7 protection or event-specific coverage?
Understanding your unique situation will help you communicate better with the security company and ensure that the right level of protection is provided. At CitiGuard, we start with a clear, detailed conversation so we know exactly what you need—no guesswork involved.
Step 2: Check for Proper Licensing
In California, armed security guards must be licensed through the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). This includes:
- A Guard Card
- A Firearms Permit
- Proof of successful completion of BSIS-approved training courses
You should always verify that the security company you’re working with employs guards who meet all state legal requirements. Hiring an unlicensed guard not only puts people at risk, it also opens you up to liability.
At CitiGuard, every armed guard on our team is fully licensed and trained according to BSIS standards. We don’t cut corners when it comes to legal compliance.
Step 3: Ask About Insurance
Security companies should carry general liability insurance, workers’ compensation, and other policies that protect both their guards and their clients.
Why is this important?
If an incident occurs involving an armed guard and the company isn’t properly insured, you could be held responsible. It’s simply not worth the risk.
CitiGuard carries full insurance coverage so you can focus on what matters—feeling secure and supported, knowing you’re protected from liability.
Step 4: Vet the Guards
Not all armed guards are created equal. It’s essential to vet both the individual guards and the company that employs them.
What to look for:
- Background checks and drug testing
- Experience in law enforcement, military, or private security
- De-escalation and crisis response training
- Professional demeanor and clear communication
CitiGuard prides itself on hiring only the most qualified professionals. Our hiring process includes in-depth interviews, full background screenings, and continuous training. We don’t just look for people with a badge—we look for people with the right judgment and integrity to match.
Step 5: Make Sure the Company Understands Your Industry
Different settings require different types of security. Armed guards at a retail location may need to focus on theft prevention and crowd control, while guards at a construction site may need to patrol large areas and monitor for unauthorized access.
The company you choose should understand your specific industry and tailor their approach accordingly.
At CitiGuard, we’ve provided armed guard services for:
- Commercial properties
- Residential communities
- Financial institutions
- Hospitals
- Private events
- Industrial sites
- Government buildings
Whatever your environment, we come prepared—with the right tools, mindset, and training for the job.
Step 6: Ask About Reporting and Communication
Security is not just about being present—it’s about staying alert, documenting incidents, and keeping you informed. A professional armed guard company should offer clear, timely communication and a system for tracking reports and responses.
At CitiGuard, we use real-time reporting tools so you always know what’s happening on your property. Whether it’s an incident log, access control report, or patrol updates, you’ll stay in the loop with full transparency.
Step 7: Choose a Company You Can Trust
In the end, hiring armed security is about more than checking boxes. It’s about trusting that the people you hire will act responsibly, professionally, and in your best interest—especially in high-pressure situations.
CitiGuard is proud to be one of Southern California’s most trusted names in armed security. Our clients choose us not just for our credentials, but for our commitment to doing things right—from the first phone call to every patrol.
When you work with CitiGuard, you’re not just hiring a guard. You’re partnering with a team that:
- Listens to your concerns
- Understands local risks
- Communicates clearly
- Acts with professionalism and care
In a world that can feel uncertain, CitiGuard is here to provide certainty. We protect what matters most—so you can breathe easier.
Ready to Hire Armed Security Guards?
CitiGuard can assist you if you’re prepared to move forward. Our crew is well-trained, our procedure is clear, and our goal is straightforward: to safeguard you with professionalism and compassion.
Give us a call right now to talk with a security specialist and receive a plan that is tailored to your requirements. No matter how big or small your company is, you can rely on CitiGuard to be there for you—prepared, armed, and vigilant.