The Licensing Process for Security Guards in Ontario: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. The Licensing Process for Security Guards in Ontario: A Step- by-Step Guide Contents .................................................................................................................................................................... 1 Why a Security Guard Licence Is Required in Ontario ........................................................................... 2 Step 1 – Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements ...................................................................................... 2 Step 2 – Complete the Mandatory Security Guard Training Course.................................................... 3 Step 3 – Write and Pass the Security Guard Test ................................................................................ 4 Step 4 – Apply for Your Ontario Security Guard Licence ..................................................................... 5 Step 5 – Start Working as a Licensed Security Guard in Ontario ......................................................... 5 Licence Renewal and Maintenance Requirements .................................................................................. 6 Contact Security Guard Company in Ontario! ........................................................................................ 7 Smith Security Inc. .............................................................................................................................. 7

2. Why a Security Guard Licence Is Required in Ontario In Ontario, working as a security guard is a regulated profession. You must be licensed under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA), which is enforced by the Ministry of the Solicitor General. This requirement ensures all security personnel are properly vetted and trained to carry out their responsibilities safely and legally. Ensures public safety and professionalism– Licensed guards are held to a legal standard that promotes accountability, ethical behaviour, and proper response in various situations. Required by the Ministry of the Solicitor General–It’s illegal to work as a security guard in Ontario without a valid licence. Employers can only hire individuals who have completed the official training and testing process. Applies to various workplaces– Whether stationed at shopping malls, corporate offices, concerts, hospitals, construction sites, or residential buildings, all security guards must be licensed before reporting for duty. Ontario’s licensing framework protects both the public and the guards themselves, setting a clear foundation for professionalism in the industry. Step 1 – Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements Before you can begin the process of becoming a licensed security guard in Ontario, you must first meet a few key legal requirements. These criteria are set by the Ministry of the Solicitor General to ensure that only qualified individuals can perform security-related duties. Must be 18 years or older– You must be the age of majority to apply for a security licence in Ontario. Legally entitled to work in Canada– You must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a valid work permit.

3. Clean criminal record– Applicants must not have any criminal convictions that would disqualify them under Ontario's Private Security and Investigative Services Act. A background check is conducted as part of the application process. Valid government-issued ID– A current photo ID (such as a driver’s licence or passport) is required when submitting your application and booking your exam. Meeting these initial requirements ensures that you are eligible to move forward with the training and licensing process. Failure to meet any of these criteria will delay or prevent your application from being approved. Step 2 – Complete the Mandatory Security Guard Training Course To become a licensed security guard in Ontario, you must first complete a training course approved by the Ministry of the Solicitor General. This foundational training ensures that all security professionals have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their duties lawfully and responsibly. 40-hour course approved by the Ministry– The training program includes a minimum of 33.5 hours of in-class or online instruction, plus a valid Emergency Level First Aid and CPR certification (typically 6.5 hours). Core topics covered– The curriculum includes essential areas such as: oUse of Force Theory oLegal Authorities (Citizen’s Arrest, Trespass to Property Act, etc.) oReport Writing and Incident Documentation oEmergency Response Procedures and Health & Safety oPublic Relations and Professionalism Flexible learning options– The course can be completed online or in-class through Ministry-approved training providers across

4. Ontario. Many offer flexible schedules for full-time workers or students. After completing the course and receiving your Training Completion Number, you’ll be eligible to book your Ontario Security Guard exam—the next step in the licensing process. Step 3 – Write and Pass the Security Guard Test Once you've completed the mandatory training, the next step toward becoming a licensed security guard in Ontario is writing and passing the provincial exam. This test evaluates your understanding of the material covered in your training and ensures you’re ready to perform the duties of a security professional responsibly and legally. Multiple-choice test administered by Serco– The exam is conducted by Serco, the official test provider for Ontario’s security guard and private investigator licensing. You can book your test online, by phone, or in person at a DriveTest Centre. Based on training course content– The exam includes 60 multiple-choice questions drawn directly from the topics covered in your training course, such as legal authorities, use of force, emergency procedures, and report writing. Minimum passing score of 62%– You must answer at least 37 out of 60 questions correctly to pass the exam. Results are typically available within two business days. Tips for studying and test day preparation: oReview your course materials thoroughly oTake practice tests if offered by your training provider oArrive early with valid government-issued photo ID oRead each question carefully before selecting your answer Passing the test is a key milestone in your journey to becoming a licensed security guard. Once you receive your passing result, you'll be ready to apply for your licence.

5. Step 4 – Apply for Your Ontario Security Guard Licence After successfully passing the provincial exam, you’re ready to apply for your Ontario Security Guard licence. This step finalizes your entry into the profession and officially allows you to work as a licensed guard anywhere in the province. Apply online through ServiceOntario– The fastest and most convenient way to apply is through the official ServiceOntario portal. You can also apply by mail, but this may increase processing time. Submit required documents– Be prepared to upload or provide the following: oValid government-issued photo ID oTraining Completion Number (provided by your course provider) oTest results (automatically forwarded if you passed) oA digital passport-style photo that meets specifications Pay the non-refundable licence fee– The fee is currently $80, payable by credit card or debit online. This covers a two-year licensing period. Processing time– Most applications are processed within 10 to 15 business days, although delays may occur if additional verification is required. You will receive an email once your application is approved. Once approved, your licence will be available in digital format for immediate download, and a physical copy will be mailed to you shortly after. Step 5 – Start Working as a Licensed Security Guard in Ontario

6. Once your application is approved, you're officially licensed to work as a security guard in Ontario. This final step marks the beginning of your professional journey in the security industry, where you’ll be expected to uphold public safety and follow all applicable regulations. Print or carry your digital licence– You must carry either a printed or digital copy of your security guard licence at all times while on duty. Employers and law enforcement officers may request to see it. Follow the Code of Conduct and legal responsibilities– Licensed security guards must adhere to the standards outlined in Ontario’s Private Security and Investigative Services Act. This includes limits on the use of force, privacy laws, and obligations to report incidents accurately. Ongoing learning and performance reviews may be required– While initial training is mandatory, many employers require periodic refresher sessions or conduct performance evaluations to ensure guards stay sharp and compliant. Some employers offer additional training– Depending on the nature of your job, you may receive site-specific instruction, advanced conflict resolution techniques, or customer service training to better serve the public. Licence Renewal and Maintenance Requirements After becoming a licensed security guard in Ontario, it’s important to stay compliant with the Ministry’s rules by keeping your licence current and your personal information up to date. Here’s what you need to know about maintaining your licence. Valid for two years– Your Ontario security guard licence is valid for a period of two years from the date of issue. Must renew before expiration to continue working– You are legally required to renew your licence before it expires. Working

7. with an expired licence is a violation of the law and could result in fines or disciplinary action. Keep address and personal details updated– You must notify the Ministry of the Solicitor General if you change your name, address, or other personal information. This ensures your licence remains valid and that you receive important notifications. No mandatory continuing education—though encouraged– While Ontario does not currently require ongoing training for renewal, many employers and industry leaders recommend continued education to stay updated on new laws, technologies, and best practices. Being proactive about renewing your licence and staying informed demonstrates your commitment to professionalism and legal compliance in the Ontario security industry. Contact Security Guard Company in Ontario! Smith Security Inc. Address: 3 Royce Ave, Orillia, ON L3V 5H8, Canada Phone Number: +17059080132 Business Hours: 24 / 7 open Website: https://smithsecurity.ca Email: info@smithsecurity.ca