Scope and current rules: This guide addresses California private security, not police authority. Rules and site policies can change. Confirm your license type, current BSIS requirements, local rules and employer authorization before carrying equipment. A proprietary private security officer (PSO) is a different registration category; BSIS describes PSOs as unarmed and says they may not carry the listed weapons, including electronic control devices, batons or chemical agents.
A TASER conducted-energy device (CEW) is one type of electronic control device. A guard card alone is not proof that a particular guard may carry one on a particular assignment. Check your registration category, employer authorization, training, the applicable law and site rules first.
Is there a BSIS TASER certification?
BSIS lists a course in the use of a stun gun or Air Taser as an elective in its security-guard training syllabus, with up to four hours credited in that syllabus. That listing does not, by itself, establish a standalone BSIS TASER permit or a universal legal requirement for a specific course. Ask BSIS and your employer about your exact job and verify any manufacturer or employer qualification requirements before carrying a device.
BSIS’s training manual says a proprietary private security officer may not carry a stun gun or electronic control device. Do not assume a PSO registration gives the same scope as a BSIS security guard registration employed by a private patrol operator.
Potential benefits and limitations
Depending on the approved device and circumstances, a CEW can offer an additional less-lethal option to an authorized, trained officer. It is not risk-free, is not guaranteed to stop a confrontation, and is not a substitute for communication, de-escalation, medical response or lawful use-of-force decisions. Employer policy should address the circumstances of use, reporting, medical attention and approved training.
What should a buyer confirm?
- Employer-approved model, condition, maintenance and training requirements.
- Exact model and generation of any compatible cartridges, batteries and holster; series names do not prove cross-generation compatibility.
- For a used device: serial information, condition, battery status, included components and any manufacturer-supported inspection or service.
- Restrictions on possession, locations, transportation and on-duty use applicable to the person and assignment.
Explore our TASER device and accessory collection and CEW overview. Availability and exact compatibility are confirmed by inquiry.
Official resources
- BSIS security guard registration fact sheet
- BSIS firearms permit fact sheet
- BSIS firearms assessment
- BSIS baton training manual and current application information
- BSIS guard training syllabus and power to arrest and appropriate use of force manual
- BSIS uniform requirements
Sources reviewed October 27, 2026. This educational overview is not legal advice; confirm current requirements with BSIS, your employer and qualified counsel. HolstersMaster is not BSIS or a training provider.