Thinking about entry-level security work in Ontario? This guide shows the exact path from training to exam to licence, with real costs, documents, and timings. Security guard work isn’t just another job; it carries real responsibility. You must complete approved training and pass a test to show your learning. This guide takes you from training to exam to licence – everything you need to work as a security guard in Ontario. Security guard is one of the Ontario’s High Demand Careers.
Quick overview (what you’ll do)
- Complete a basic 40-hour security guard course that includes Emergency First Aid/CPR (or show proof).
- Get your Training Completion Number (TCN) from an approved provider, then book the test.
- Pass a 60-question multiple-choice exam (75 minutes to answer; the booking slot is 90 minutes). Results are posted quickly.
- Apply online via ServiceOntario with your IDs, CRJMC police check, guarantor form, photo, and pay the $80 fee; download your digital licence once approved.
Read: Best Free Digital Skills for Ontario Students
How to get security guard licence: Step-by-step
1) Check you’re eligible: You must be 18+, legally entitled to work in Canada, and have a clean criminal record to hold a licence.
About criminal eligibility: Ontario maintains a list of disqualifying offences (Clean Criminal Record regulation). You’ll supply a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) dated within the last 6 months with your application.
2) Do the training (40 hours + First Aid): Ontario’s basic security guard training is no less than 40 hours and includes Emergency Level First Aid/CPR content or certification. Most providers deliver it online plus an in-person First Aid day.
Tip: “Use of Force/Handcuffing” is not part of the licensing syllabus. Some employers require it later for specific roles.
3) Get your TCN: After you finish the course, your provider issues a Training Completion Number (TCN). You’ll use the TCN to book your exam and later in your licence application.
4) Book and pass the exam: Book online through the Ontario Security Guard and Private Investigator Testing site (operated by Serco). Tests are offered online (remote-proctored) and at locations across Ontario. The exam has 60 multiple-choice questions, you get 75 minutes to answer, and the appointment window is 90 minutes. Results typically appear within 2 business days. Fee: $35 + HST = $39.55.
5) Apply for your licence (online is fastest):
Apply via ServiceOntario. Prepare:
- CRJMC (police check) in official format (not older than 6 months)
- Two IDs (one with photo/signature/DOB; one proving right to work)
- Guarantor form and passport-quality photo
- Your TCN and payment
Cost: $80 for a security guard licence ($160 if applying for a dual SG/PI licence). You’ll get a digital licence once approved; the plastic card follows by mail.
How long does the licence last? Individual security guard licences are valid for two years; renew before expiry.
Read: OSAP 2025: eligibility, deadlines, and how to apply
Practical costs (typical)
- Training course: varies by provider (often $100–$230; shop around).
- Emergency First Aid/CPR: sometimes included, otherwise extra.
- Exam fee: $39.55
- CRJMC police check: ~$25–$60, depends on police service.
- Licence fee: $80 (two-year licence).
Example: If training is $150 and First Aid is included, your out-of-pocket could be $200 + $39.55 + $40 + $80 ≈ $359.55.
Timeline you can plan for:
Training: 4-7 days of study time (self-paced) + First Aid day.
Exam booking -> result: often 2-7 days to get a slot; result in ~2 business days.
Licence processing: up to ~30 days; digital card available once approved.
You can check the training syllabus for security guards on the official Ontario website: Training syllabus for security guards.
- Best free digital skills (resume add-ons) and OSAP 2025 (funding).
FAQs
Do I need to be a Canadian citizen?
No. You must be legally entitled to work in Canada.
Can I work while my application is processing?
No. You can only work after your licence is approved (your digital licence counts). Ontario requires a valid licence to work as a guard.
Is “Use of Force/Handcuffing” required to get licensed?
No. It’s not part of the mandatory 40-hour licensing syllabus. Some employers ask for it later depending on the role.
How long is the licence valid?
Two years (renewal is also $80).2025 update
Can I transfer a licence from another province?
If you hold a valid out-of-province SG/PI licence, you may apply in Ontario without repeating training/testing; include your OOP licence details with your application.
