Want to become a security guard in Ontario? The first step is to complete the necessary Ontario security training. In this guide, you’ll learn how to select a training provider, understand what the training entails, and get certified. Let’s get started on your path to becoming a certified security guard.

Key Takeaways
Selecting an accredited training provider in Ontario is crucial for meeting legal requirements and gaining recognized certification in the security industry.
The basic security guard training program requires a minimum of 40 hours of instruction, including emergency first aid training, to prepare candidates for their licensing exam.
Employing networking and job placement services significantly enhances employment opportunities in the security field, while specialized training can improve earning potential and career growth.
Choosing the Right Security Guard Training Provider in Ontario
Choosing the right security guard training provider in Ontario is the first step towards a successful career in the security industry. Ensure the training provider you select is accredited and complies with the standards set by the Private Security and Investigative Services Act. This guarantees that your training is recognized and meets the legal requirements for certification.
Quality training programs focus on equipping students with practical skills and preparing them for real-world security roles. Topics such as legal authorities, effective communication, and emergency response strategies are prioritized. Additionally, research and evaluate training providers based on student reviews and success rates. This offers insights into the credibility and effectiveness of the training programs.
Consider the course content quality and its effectiveness in preparing you for the licensing exam and future job roles. Look for providers that offer a comprehensive training program that covers all necessary topics and includes practical exercises. Also, check if the provider offers support for job placements and career guidance.
Accreditation and Compliance
Accreditation and compliance are crucial when choosing a security guard training provider. Accredited providers are recognized by the Ministry of the Solicitor General and adhere to the standards required for certification. This guarantees that your training is reliable and meets industry regulations.
An accredited provider not only offers comprehensive training but also includes essential certifications, such as Emergency First Aid with CPR level training, conducted by an WSIB-certified provider. Following the conduct and operational standards outlined by the Private Security and Investigative Services Act is essential for maintaining the safety and professionalism of security personnel.
Course Content Quality
The quality of the course content significantly determines your preparedness for a security guard role. Comprehensive training programs cover a range of essential topics, including legal authorities, effective communication, and emergency response strategies. These topics prepare security guards to handle various situations in their careers.
High-quality training programs combine theoretical knowledge with practical exercises simulating real-world scenarios. This blend of knowledge and practical skills ensures graduates are ready to perform their duties effectively and confidently.
Student Reviews and Success Rates
Student reviews and success rates are strong indicators of a training program’s effectiveness. Evaluating training providers based on these metrics helps in choosing programs that offer quality training and high success rates in licensing exams. Positive feedback and established success metrics guide prospective students in making informed decisions.
Providers with high success rates and positive reviews demonstrate their ability to deliver effective training that meets industry standards. Such providers typically have well-structured courses, experienced instructors, and robust support systems to aid student success and help students successfully complete their training.
Understanding Basic Security Guard Training Requirements
Knowing the basic security guard training requirements is crucial for aspiring security guards in Ontario. The basic training program is designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively. This encompasses a minimum of 40 hours of both classroom and practical instruction.
The program provides comprehensive instruction on various topics, including CPR and First Aid training. The main goal is to equip candidates with the knowledge and skills for legal and effective work in the security field. Before applying for a security guard license, individuals must complete the basic training course and pass the required test.
Completing the basic training program is a crucial step in the licensing process. It prepares candidates to handle the responsibilities of a security guard and respond to emergencies effectively. The program also includes mandatory emergency first aid training for all security guards in Ontario.
Mandatory Training Hours
Mandatory training hours for Ontario security guards ensure comprehensive training. The training includes 33.5 hours of security guard instruction plus 7.5 hours of Emergency First Aid with CPR, totaling 40 hours of instruction.
Both in-class and online training options are available, allowing candidates to choose the format that best suits their needs. Regardless of the format, the training must cover all required topics and provide necessary practical experience to ensure candidates are fully prepared.
Emergency First Aid Training
Emergency first aid training is a vital component of the basic security guard training program. The minimum required level is Emergency First Aid and Level C CPR, and it must be WSIB approved. This training equips candidates with essential lifesaving skills for effective emergency response.
The Emergency First Aid training program lasts 8 hours and covers a range of essential skills. Participants can opt out of this training if they present a valid first aid/CPR certificate from an accredited provider such as St. John Ambulance. The cost for obtaining the Emergency First Aid Certificate is typically around $119 + HST.
Training Completion Number (TCN)
The Training Completion Number (TCN) is a unique identifier given upon completing the basic training course. This number is essential for registering for the security guard exam and is a required step before taking the test.
A TCN confirms that candidates have completed all necessary training requirements and are eligible for the Security Guard exam. This number is used to facilitate the registration process and ensure that only qualified candidates are allowed to take the exam.

Online vs. In-Class Security Guard Training
Choosing between online and in-class security guard training impacts your learning experience. Both options are recognized by employers and meet industry standards but offer different advantages.
Online courses provide flexibility and convenience for self-paced learning
In-class training offers hands-on experience and immediate instructor feedback
Online security guard training courses are self-paced, allowing students to control their study schedules and progress through the course materials at their own pace. These courses can be accessed from any device, providing flexibility for learners with other commitments. Mandatory real-time instructor interaction helps students stay engaged and receive immediate feedback.
In-class training, on the other hand, provides a more structured learning environment with practical exercises that prepare students for real-world scenarios. Hands-on practice combined with immediate feedback maximizes the learning experience for aspiring security guards.
Hybrid learning options are infrequent, but they integrate online coursework with in-person practical sessions, providing a flexible and effective training approach.
Steps to Obtain Your Ontario Security Guard License
Obtaining your Ontario Security Guard License involves several steps, starting with meeting eligibility requirements. Candidates must complete a basic training course, pass the ministry exam, and submit a clean Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) as part of the licensing process.
The basic security training course prepares participants for passing the Ministry exam and obtaining certification. The training includes mandatory Emergency First Aid with CPR Level C. Upon finishing the course, participants receive a Training Completion Number (TCN) needed for registering for the security guard exam.
After completing the training program, candidates must pass the Ministry exam to obtain their license. The exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, with a minimum score of 63% required to pass. The exam fee is $35 + HST, paid to SERCO Canada.
After passing the Ministry exam, you have to submit your license application
Make sure you are eligible
Before starting the journey to become a licensed security guard, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements.
Candidates must be:
18 years or older
eligible to work in Canada
have a clean criminal record according to Ontario Regulation 37/08
These requirements ensure that only qualified individuals can work as security guards in Ontario.
Candidates must also have a goverment-issued document to prove their eligibility, such as a SIN number, work permit, Canadian passport, birth certificate, or PR card. Meeting these requirements is the first step towards obtaining your Ontario Security Guard License.
Completing the Basic Security Guard Training Course
Completing the basic training course is the key step in the licensing process. This training prepares participants for the responsibilities of a security guard, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform effectively.
The course includes comprehensive instruction on various topics, including emergency first aid training and CPR Level C. Upon finishing the course, participants receive a Training Completion Number (TCN) needed for registering for the security guard exam.
Passing the Ministry Exam
Passing the Ministry exam is the final step in obtaining your license. Candidates need a Training Completion Number (TCN) to register for the exam. The exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, with a minimum score of 63% required to pass.
The exam fee is $35 + HST, paid to SERCO Canada. Candidates can take the exam in person at a SERCO Canada (Drive Test Centers) or online from their computer.
CRJMC (Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check)
Getting the Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) is an important part of the licensing process. CRJMC for security license covers outstanding charges, warrants, and judicial orders, and is required for both initial licensing and renewals. As of February 18, 2024, applicants must provide a clean CRJMC to obtain a license.
The CRJMC must be no older than six months for the application and can be conducted through approved third-party providers. You can consider CRJMC.net, which offers an online process with results delivered within 15 minutes. This requirement ensures that all security guards have a clear background, maintaining the industry’s integrity and safety.
The CRJMC may be ordered from a local police station. The cost of this option is between $60 and $90, and the waiting time is between 2 and 4 weeks. A quicker and more cost-effective solution is to use a CRJMC Ontario online provider, which offer quick turnaround time (counted in minutes) and are cheaper than in-person - they can cost as little as $54.99. You also do not have to leave your house!
Submitting Your License Application
To apply for your license, create an account with One-Key ID to submit your application to the Ministry. The process includes submitting a passport-sized photo, a completed guarantor form, the original CRJMC, and copies of two IDs. The cost to submit the application is $80, which includes HST.
Within 2 business days, your application should be approved. Once approved, you will receive a digital license that can be printed and used as proof until you receive the physical license card by mail, which can take up to eight weeks.
License renewal
Security guard licenses in Ontario expire exactly two years after issuance. It is illegal to work without a valid license, so it is crucial to start the renewal process before it expires. The renewal process includes submitting your current license number, two pieces of valid identification, a passport-quality photo, and a CRJMC that is not older than six months.
You can renew your license online or by mail. Renewing online provides immediate access to a digital license card, with the physical card mailed within approximately eight weeks. It is recommended to start the renewal process 30-60 days before expiration to avoid any issues.
Career Opportunities in the Security Industry

The security industry in Ontario offers a variety of career paths, including roles in private security firms, corporate security, and event security. Licensed security guards can find opportunities in sectors such as retail, event management, and corporate security, with roles ranging from mobile patrols to loss prevention.
Specialized training programs, like Use of Force or Crisis Intervention certifications can further enhance career opportunities, allowing security guards to focus on specific niches such as industrial security and personal security details. Job placement services and networking events can significantly improve prospects, connecting licensed security guards to over 45 hiring security companies across Ontario.
Employment Prospects and Job Roles
Common job roles for security personnel include:
Event security
Security officers
Bouncers
Loss prevention agents
These roles are available in various sectors, providing ample job opportunities for licensed security guards in Ontario.
Holding both security guard and private investigator licenses can significantly broaden employment possibilities, allowing professionals to expand their job prospects and explore various sectors of security and investigation.
Salary Expectations and Growth Potential
Security guards in Ontario typically earn between $18 to $30 per hour, depending on their role and experience. Entry-level security guards usually earn around $23 per hour, with potential for bonuses and overtime pay.
As security guards gain experience and advance in their careers, they can earn upwards of $30 per hour. Specialized training and additional certifications can further enhance earning potential and open up opportunities for career growth within the security industry.
Networking and Job Placement Services
Networking and job placement services play a crucial role in securing employment in the security industry. Attending job fairs and industry networking events allows security guards to connect with potential employers and industry professionals, significantly enhancing job prospects.
Training providers often offer job placement services, leveraging their connections and knowledge of the job market to help graduates find employment in the security sector. Utilizing these services can improve your chances of landing a job and starting a successful career in security.
Specialized Training and Dual Licenses
Specialized training programs and dual licenses provide security guards with the opportunity to enhance their skills and expand their career prospects. In Ontario, there are separate training courses for security guards and private investigators, making it necessary for those seeking dual licenses to complete both sets of training.
Advanced training programs cover areas such as cybersecurity, surveillance, and crowd management, equipping security guards with niche skills that can enhance their earning potential and career opportunities. These programs often incorporate diverse teaching methods, including role plays and discussion groups, to cater to various learning styles.
Obtaining a Dual License
To apply for a dual license as both a security guard and a private investigator, candidates must complete both courses and associated tests. The minimum duration for combined dual-license basic training courses is 90 hours, which includes Emergency First Aid and CPR Level C certification.
Obtaining a dual license allows individuals to work both as security guards and private investigators in Ontario, providing greater career flexibility and broadening employment possibilities in various sectors of security and investigation.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
To legally work in security in Canada, applicants must meet specific legal requirements, including having a clean criminal record. The Police Record Checks Reform Act, 2015 outlines the procedures for conducting police record checks and specifies the types of checks required for security guards in Ontario.
Security guard training applicants must undergo thorough background checks to ensure they do not have any disqualifying criminal records. Continuous professional development is also essential for security guards to stay informed about legal updates and industry best practices.
Police Record Checks and Compliance
The Police Record Checks Reform Act governs how police record checks are conducted and what is included in the check.
A criminal record check is mandatory when applying for a security guard license and must be sourced from the local police service or an approved third-party provider. This ensures that all security guards have a clear background, maintaining the integrity and safety of the security industry.
Ongoing Training and Compliance
Continuous professional development is crucial for security guards to remain informed about the evolving legal landscape and to uphold industry standards. The curriculum for security guard training is regularly updated to reflect current laws and industry standards, ensuring that security guards comply with regulatory requirements and operate effectively in their roles.
Security guards must also comply with regulations regarding the equipment they can use, necessitating ongoing training to ensure proper usage. There are various programs available that expand the qualifications of a security guard, such as Use of Force training and Crisis Intervention training.
Summary
In summary, becoming a licensed security guard in Ontario involves several critical steps, from choosing the right training provider to understanding the basic training requirements and exploring career opportunities. Ensuring that you meet the eligibility requirements, completing the basic security guard training course, and passing the Ministry exam are essential milestones on this journey.
The security industry in Ontario offers a wide range of career opportunities, with various job roles and potential for growth. Specialized training and dual licenses further enhance career prospects, providing security guards with the skills and flexibility needed to excel in their roles. By staying informed about legal and regulatory considerations and engaging in continuous professional development, you can ensure a successful and rewarding career in the security industry.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the minimum duration of the basic security guard training course in Ontario?
The minimum duration of the basic security guard training course in Ontario is 40 hours, which includes 33.5 hours of security instruction and 7.5 hours of Emergency First Aid with CPR level C.
2. What is the total cost of getting a security guard license in Ontario?
There are a few possible variants of how the pricing is structured. Here is the breakdown.
Security guard course - depending on a provider and the variant (online or in-class), ranging from $79.99 + HST to $249.99 + HST.
Emergency First Aid with CPR Level C - there are multiple WSIB-approved providers with different prices. Depending on your location, you may have different options. The average is $79.99 + HST.
Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) - the quickest and the most affordable way is getting a CRJMC Ontario check with an authorized third-party provider - $54.99 total
Ministry exam fee - $35 + HST
License application fee - after passing the exam, $80 including HST.
Therefore, a total cost of getting a security guard license in Ontario, in the best scenario is around $355.
3. What is the total time of getting a security guard license in Ontario?
Here is the breakdown.
Security guard course - a minimum of 40 hours. The quickest way is to do the training online. Assuming you would be studying for 8 hours a day, that's 5 days
Emergency First Aid with CPR Level C - 1 day, it takes around 6 hours to complete the training. The courses are scheduled every other day, usually with a little waiting time. To avoid any queues, it's best to book your Emergency First Aid training concurrently with your security guard course. You can do Emergency First Aid training before or after the security guard course.
Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) - this element has an immense impact on a total licensing time. If you choose to go with a local police check, the waiting time may be as long as 4 weeks. With an online CRJMC provider, you can get the CRJMC as quickly as in 15 minutes.
Ministry exam - in the online version it can be usually booked 2-3 days before the exam date, sometimes even just a day before.
License application - after submitting all the required documents (passport-sized photo, a completed guarantor form, the original CRJMC, and copies of two IDs), your application should be approved within 2 business days. The physical license comes within 8 weeks, but you receive a digital version of the license immediately after approval. You can print it and use it before you receive a physical one.
Therefore, a total time of getting a security guard license in Ontario, in the best scenario, is around 10 days.
4. What is the Training Completion Number (TCN) used for?
The Training Completion Number (TCN) serves as a unique identifier that is crucial for registering for the security guard exam following the completion of basic security guard training.
5. How much does it cost to submit the Ontario security guard license application?
The cost to submit the Ontario security guard license application is $80, including HST.
6. What are the salary expectations for security guards in Ontario?
Security guards in Ontario can expect to earn between $18 and $30 per hour, with entry-level positions starting around $23 per hour, alongside potential bonuses and overtime pay. This range largely depends on their role and experience in the field.
7. What is required to obtain a dual license as a security guard and private investigator in Ontario?
To obtain a dual license as a security guard and private investigator in Ontario, candidates must complete a minimum of 90 hours of combined training courses, which include Emergency First Aid and CPR Level C certification, as well as pass the associated tests. This preparation ensures compliance with regulatory standards for both professions.