Although the process can be intimidating at first, obtaining a security guard license in Ontario, Canada is now easier than ever. Various centres like nfsecurity.ca, for example, offer testing and training, do not hesitate to contact one today.
Security Guard License Eligibility Requirements
According to the Ontario Ministry of the Solicitor General, Ontario residents applying for a security guard license must be at least 18 years of age, must be eligible to work in Canada, and must have a clean criminal record. A criminal record refers to one who has been convicted of various offences under the Criminal Code of Canada, including forgery, fraud, harassment, causing bodily harm, murder, among others. These individuals are ineligible to hold a license under O. Reg. 37/08: ELIGIBILITY TO HOLD A LICENCE under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005, S.O. 2005, c. 34.
Security Guard License Process
Firstly, applicants must successfully complete mandated testing and training and obtain an Ontario Testing Completion Number.
It will take up to 30 business days to process a security guard license, and the license will expire on one’s birthday, 2 years after issuance.
Often, the online application takes about 10 business days to be processed. The new security license card will arrive in the mail in approximately 8 weeks.
Photo requirements must be met, as well as having proper identification. The photos must be passport quality, 50mm wide and 70 mm high, taken within the last 6 months and be clear, and non-retouched.
In addition, 2 valid and non-expired documents must be presented. Examples of valid identification documents include driver’s license, passport, Ontario photo card, permanent resident card, Canadian birth certificate, certificate of Canadian citizenship, naturalization card, and a National Defence Card, among others.
Finally, a guarantor form must be signed. A guarantor is someone who confirms one’s identity and information. The guarantor must be over 18, able to confirm basic personal information, able to see one’s 2 pieces of identification, and have known one for at least 2 years.
Payment is taken through Interac Online, pre-paid credit card, Visa, or MasterCard.
Holders must adhere to the 2005 Private Security and Investigative Services Act, as well as O. Reg. 363/07: CODE OF CONDUCT, which deals with issues, such as honesty, integrity, refrain from acting with unnecessary force, and treat all people without discrimination, among others.
In addition, the licenses must be on one’s person at all times, and security guards must identify themselves and present their license if asked. Failure can result in charges.
Dual Licenses
In addition, Ontario offers a dual license for both a security guard and a private investigator. One can easily obtain both license by completing one form and following the steps on Service Ontario’s website.
Security Guard License Testing and Training
Many security guard companies now offer Security Guard Training programs for security guards in Ontario. The applicant must take a security guard basic training course and pass a basic test.
- Basic Training Course – The Basic Training Course may be taken at a public university, community college, private career college, licensed agency, and at a registered employer. Many companies across the province offer training courses as well and offer free consultations. Do not hesitate to call one today.
Course fees are set by the provider. Costs often are in the $100 CAD range without first aid and $190 CAD including first aid certification.
Courses are at least 40 hours long, with certification in emergency first aid/cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Dual certification courses are 90 hours long. Dual certification are approximately $350 CAD.
Courses are offered either in-classroom on online. Topics include Introduction to the Security Industry, Private Security and Investigative Services Act and Code of Conduct regulation, Basic Security Procedures, Report Writing, Health and Safety, Emergency Response Preparation, Canadian Legal System, Legal Authorities, Effective Communications, Sensitivity Training, Use of Force Theory, and Emergency Level First Aid Certification.
In particular, for Use of Force Theory, takedown techniques, handcuffing, and baton work, knives, and suspect control techniques are covered.
After one completes the Basic Training course, one will be given a completion number. This is needed to register for the Basic Test. Certificates must include student name, training centre name, type of training completed, date, and signature of the trainer.
- Basic Test – The Basic Test is available at Drive Test centres in Ontario and consists of 60 multiple-choice questions. Tests are offered in both English and French.
The cost of a Basic Test is $66.50 plus HST, a total of $75.15 CAD. Results will be ready within 2 days of taking the test.
Once the test is passed, one can apply for the security guard license. For those who fail, unlimited retakes are permitted, with full cost paid each time.
By following eligibility requirements and obtaining training, it is quite simple to obtain a security guard license in Ontario, Canada.
