How to Become a Qualified Manager in California (BSIS Requirements & Exam Guide)
Why Becoming a Qualified Manager Matters
In California’s security industry, the Qualified Manager (QM) is the licensed professional who legally manages the operations of a Private Patrol Operator (PPO) business. Without one, a security company cannot operate.
Becoming a QM opens doors to:
Starting your own security company
Working as a contracted QM for other PPOs
Increasing your earning potential and career credibility
If you have security experience and leadership skills, this could be the next big step in your career.
What is a Qualified Manager?
A Qualified Manager is a person licensed by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) to manage a PPO license.
Main responsibilities:
Oversee daily business operations
Ensure compliance with BSIS laws and regulations
Manage guard training and licensing requirements
Handle contracts and client relations
BSIS Qualified Manager Requirements
Before applying, make sure you meet the following minimum qualifications:
Experience:
2,000 hours of paid security work in the past 5 years
Work can be as a security guard, loss prevention officer, bodyguard, armed guard, or similar role
Other Requirements:
Be at least 18 years old
Pass the BSIS Qualified Manager Exam
Complete a Live Scan background check with the DOJ & FBI
Have no disqualifying criminal convictions
The Qualified Manager Exam
The QM exam is a multiple-choice test administered by BSIS-approved testing centers.
The exam covers topics such as:
California Business & Professions Code
California Code of Regulations (security industry)
Powers and limitations of security guards
Use of force laws
Business management practices
Tips for passing:
Study BSIS laws and regulations thoroughly
Use BSIS-provided study materials
Take practice exams to get comfortable with question formats
How to Apply for Your QM License
Step-by-step process:
Complete the QM application (available on the BSIS website)
Submit proof of experience — employer letters or W-2 forms
Pay the application and exam fees
Schedule and pass the QM exam
Submit Live Scan fingerprints
Wait for BSIS approval
Benefits of Becoming a Qualified Manager
Becoming a QM allows you to:
Start your own PPO business
Offer your services as a contract QM for other security companies
Earn recurring income without working shifts as a guard
Have complete control over security operations and compliance
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Applying without proper proof of experience
❌ Underestimating the QM exam difficulty
❌ Missing required documents on the application
❌ Not preparing for the Live Scan background check
Qualified Manager Success Checklist
✅ 2,000 hours of security experience in the last 5 years
✅ Pass the BSIS QM exam
✅ Complete the QM application and pay fees
✅ Submit fingerprints via Live Scan
✅ Wait for BSIS approval
FAQ
Q: How much does it cost to become a QM?
A: The BSIS application and exam fees are typically under $200, but Live Scan and study materials may cost extra.
Q: Can I be a QM for more than one company?
A: Yes, but BSIS must approve, and you must maintain compliance for each.
Q: How long does it take?
A: If you pass the exam on the first try and submit all documents correctly, the process can take 1–3 months.
Launch Your Career as a Qualified Manager with Veritas Security Services
At Veritas Security Services, we mentor aspiring Qualified Managers and help them pass the BSIS exam, file their paperwork correctly, and start their security companies.
We also offer contract QM services for businesses that need a licensed manager to operate legally.
📞 Call (213) 377-2222 or visit veritassecurityservices.com to get started today.
