Can a PPO or their security officer wear a badge while in plain clothes?

A private patrol operator (PPO) or their security officer is prohibited from wearing a badge while in plain clothes. This is to prevent any confusion regarding their authority and to maintain the integrity of the uniformed security profession. Badges are typically associated with law enforcement and authorized personnel, and wearing one while not in an official uniform can mislead the public about their role and responsibilities.

The regulations set forth under the California Private Security Services Act ensure that security personnel are clearly identifiable and that their powers and functions are transparent to the community. This prohibition is important for safeguarding the standards of practice within the security industry and for ensuring public trust in security services.