A regional system for the mobilization of forces was introduced in May 1934. The Civil Guards were a key part of the structure, as members of the organization formed the core cadre of the troops.
The mobilization was carried out by provincial military districts. The Guards played a supporting role, relaying orders and gathering auxiliary forces while helping civil officials and guarding frontiers.
The regional system clarified the training goals of the Civil Guard. Instead of only focusing on rifle-based infantry, the content was modified to reflect the needs of the forces in each area. The necessary equipment was provided by the Ministry of Defence.
The wartime duties of the organization were ratified in September 1939. The Supreme Headquarters of the Civil Guard would become the headquarters of the Home Troops, taking charge of training supplemental forces for the field army. The Guards were to uphold public order, intercept paratroopers, and monitor the airspace. They would participate in organizing deliveries and evacuations, guarding prisoners of war, and repairing travel routes. The tasks of the military districts were also transferred to the Guards.
When refresher training began in October, the voluntary organization assumed its new position as a public official. The exercises and the Winter War proved the Guards were capable of taking on the regional tasks of the military districts as well as performing the role of the Home Troops.
The mobilization plans divided the country into 16 military areas and 34 Civil Guard districts. The Guards were to make preparations for setting up wartime defence forces in case the need arose. During the Interim Peace between the Winter War and the Continuation War, the Guards focused on mobilization tasks and refresher training. When the conflict began in June 1941, they successfully carried out the prescribed duties.