Hey there! If you’re looking to kickstart your career as a security guard in Ontario, you’ve come to the right place. I’m Zahid from GuardGuides, and I’m here to walk you through the entire process of getting your security guard license in Ontario for 2025. Whether you’re just curious or ready to jump in, this guide breaks down every step from eligibility to renewal, with some handy tips along the way.
Let’s dive in and make sure you’re fully prepared to get licensed and start working legally and confidently in the security industry here in Ontario.
Table of Contents
- Table of Contents
- Step 1: Eligibility Requirements
- Step 2: Completing the 40-Hour Security Guard Training
- Approved Training Providers: How to Verify Your Training is Legitimate
- Step 3: Getting Your Training Completion Number (TCN)
- Step 4: Scheduling & Passing the Ontario Security Guard Exam
- Step 5: Applying for Your Ontario Security Guard License
- Step 6: Digital-Only Security Guard License
- Step 7: Renewing Your Ontario Security Guard License
- Final Thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions
Step 1: Eligibility Requirements
Before you get too excited, let’s make sure you meet the basic requirements to apply for a security guard license in Ontario. Here’s the checklist you need to tick off:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- Legally entitled to work in Canada.
- Have a clean criminal record according to Ontario Regulation 370/08 under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005.
- Hold a valid Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) as required by section 112(c) of the same act.
If you meet these, you’re good to move on to training.
Step 2: Completing the 40-Hour Security Guard Training
This is where the real learning begins. You need to complete a 40-hour training course from an approved provider. The training breaks down like this:
- 33.5 hours of security-specific instruction.
- 6.5 hours of emergency first aid and CPR.
The course can be taken online or in person, and prices vary depending on who you choose. It’s super important to make sure your course provider is officially approved because only training from approved providers counts toward your license application.
Approved Training Providers: How to Verify Your Training is Legitimate
In Ontario, only community colleges, career colleges, licensed agencies, registered employers, and public universities are authorized to provide basic security guard and private investigator training. Some companies also train their own security staff directly.
To avoid wasting time or money, you can check if your training provider is legitimate by visiting the official Ontario government page for approved providers. Just enter their name in the search field or scroll through the list to confirm. This is a crucial step to ensure your training counts toward your license.
Step 3: Getting Your Training Completion Number (TCN)
Once you finish your 40-hour course, you’ll receive a Training Completion Number (TCN). This number is your golden ticket to booking the licensing exam. Some providers give you a digital certificate, while others hand out a physical copy—either way, hold on to it carefully.
Step 4: Scheduling & Passing the Ontario Security Guard Exam
After training, the next big hurdle is the Ontario security guard exam. It’s a multiple-choice test with 60 questions, and you’ll have 75 minutes to complete it. The passing score is 62%, so make sure you prepare well. You can book your exam online at OntarioSecurityTesting.com.
The exam tests your understanding of security procedures, legal responsibilities, and emergency protocols. Passing this exam is mandatory before you can apply for your license.
Step 5: Applying for Your Ontario Security Guard License
Congrats if you passed the exam! Now it’s time to apply for your license. This is done online through the official licensing portal. You’ll need to submit:
- Proof of training completion with your TCN.
- Your exam results.
- A passport-style photo.
- A copy of your government-issued ID.
- An $80 application fee.
Once submitted, the processing usually takes about 30 business days. Be sure to double-check all your documents before applying to avoid delays.
Step 6: Digital-Only Security Guard License
Starting September 30th, 2023, Ontario no longer issues physical security guard license cards. Instead, once approved, you’ll receive a digital license via email. You can download and print it, but there won’t be any physical card mailed to you.
Remember, while on duty, you must carry either the digital or printed copy of your license and present it if asked by law enforcement or your employer.
Step 7: Renewing Your Ontario Security Guard License
Your license is valid for two years, expiring on your second birthday after the issue date. For example, if your birthday is December 15th and you got your license on October 1st, 2019, your license will expire on December 15th, 2021.
You can renew your license up to 90 days before it expires by submitting a renewal application online and paying the $80 renewal fee. Make sure your ID and personal details are up to date when renewing.
Keep in mind, if your license expires, you cannot legally work as a security guard until it’s renewed. So mark your calendar and renew on time!
Final Thoughts
Getting your security guard license in Ontario might seem like a lot at first, but if you take it step-by-step, it’s totally doable. Remember to verify your eligibility, pick a legit training provider, study hard for the exam, and keep your license renewed. Carrying your digital license correctly and staying connected with the security community will keep you ahead in your career.
If you’re serious about working in security here in Ontario, this license is your key. Good luck, stay safe, and welcome to the world of professional security guards!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the security guard license valid in Ontario?
Your Ontario security guard license is valid for two years, expiring on your second birthday after the date it was issued.
Can I take the security guard training online?
Yes, many approved providers offer online training options for the 40-hour security guard course, but make sure the provider is officially approved by the Ontario government.
What is the passing score for the Ontario security guard exam?
You need to score at least 62% to pass the exam, which consists of 60 multiple choice questions.
Is the security guard license physical or digital?
Since September 30, 2023, Ontario issues digital-only security guard licenses. You’ll receive your license by email and can print it if you want, but no physical card is issued.
What happens if my license expires?
If your license expires, you cannot legally work as a security guard in Ontario until you renew it. It’s important to renew before the expiry date.
