How do you get a Security License in Ontario?

A security license in Ontario will allow a person to work in the security industry, but how do you get a security license? Security jobs include being a security guard, concierge, bouncer and more. Once you have a security guard license, you are qualified to work in many industries where security is needed. This includes airport security, security companies, event security and you may also guard people or property.

Who is eligible to get a Security License in Ontario?

First, let’s make sure you are eligible to earn a security license. The criteria you must meet include:

• You must be 18 years old or older
• You are legally able to work in Canada
• Must have no criminal record, or must have been pardoned of any conviction listed in the Ontario regulation of 80+ criminal offenses
• All the training and examination requirements must be completed
•  You need to have a valid Emergency First Aid/CPR certificate

Three steps to get your Ontario Security Guard License

Complete Basic Security Training

Take an accredited security license basic training course in Ontario that will prepare you. (If you have a valid license from another province, you need to obtain an Ontario license. Depending on which province or territory you are licensed from, you may be exempt from further training and testing. Get details from the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services.) Registering for a security license course is simple. At Coast2Coast, we work in association with a ministry approved training partner. Complete your security license training and first aid training with us! How do you get a security license? Security license training can be completed online. Complete roughly 33.5 hours of online training prior to completing a security license exam. Instructors are able to answer your questions via email, phone or live chat 24 hours a day.

Apply for and Pass the Basic Security License Test

Now that you know the answer to “how do you get a security license”, you can take the security license test through ServiceOntario by using the training completion number from your course. You may book your test online and complete it at a testing centre. The test consists of 60 multiple choice questions and you must score at least 62% to pass. The test takes 75 minutes to complete, and the cost is $75.15 CAD, including HST. There is no limit to the number of times you can take the test, but you must pay the fee each time. Your test results are available within five business days, and you will be provided with a testing number to include in your Ontario license application.

How to Complete your Ontario License Application?

After passing the exam, you can apply for your security guard license through ServiceOntario. Applications cannot be submitted in person but can be done online or sent by mail. If you are doing it online, use your ServiceOntario account to submit the paperwork. Submit the following with your mail or online application:

• Your test completion number
• One photo that is clear and meets the requirements for passports – not a selfie
• Two valid government identification documents, of which one must provide proof of your eligibility to work in Canada. Your identity documents must include your full legal name, photo, date of birth and your signature. This can be a Canadian birth certificate, passport, Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, etc.
• You need an eligible guarantor to complete and sign the Guarantor Information Form
• Pay the $80 for the license according to the payment method indicated for your online or mail application

Expect to wait 10 business days for approval of your online application or 30 business days for a mail application approval. If your application is incorrect respond to it within 90 days, otherwise, the application is closed and the fee is not refunded.

Working as a Licensed Security Guard

Once you receive your Ontario Security Guard License, you are free to apply for a security job. Whether this entails that you guard people or property, you always need to carry your valid license on you and must present it on request.

How long is your Security Guard License valid for?

Your security guard license is linked to your birthday. If this is your first time earning a security license, it will expire two birthdays after it was issued. After this license expires, you may renew it. The new license expires exactly two years after it is issued. For as long as you are working as a security guard, you need to keep the license valid. You may lose your license if you are convicted of a criminal offense. You must update any information about your criminal record within five days of any conviction. This can be done online by filling in a form and submitting it.

Requirements for renewing or restoring a Security Guard License in Ontario

ServiceOntario has the renewal requirements online, and they are available here. Once the license is renewed, it is only valid for two years.

Where to find information about your Security Guard License applications?

ServiceOntario customer service is available Monday to Friday 8.30 am to 5 pm and they can be contacted on these numbers:

• Toll-free: 1-866-767-7454
• TTY Toll-free: 1-800-268-7095
• Toronto: 416-212-8888
• TTY Toronto: 416-325-3408

They can also be contacted by email: privatesecurity@ontario.ca.

Complete your training with Coast2Coast

As stated previously, you may complete your security license training as well as your first aid training with Coast2Coast. By registering for both courses with us, you will receive an amazing discount. Get started today!