Written by AI from public information on 2026-10-26. Fees and rules change and vary by province — confirm with the official body before relying on anything here.
Typical cost
about CA$150 to CA$400
an estimate in Canadian dollars
Time to earn it
about 1 to 3 months
Issued by Provincial private security regulators (for example in Ontario)
Required to start: Working as a security guard needs the licence of the province or territory.
About
Security guards protect people, property and information. They patrol sites, watch for problems, check who comes and goes, and write reports. The licence shows that you have met your province's basic standards for this work.
Each province and territory sets its own rules and runs its own licensing system. In general, you must be an adult, be legally allowed to work in Canada, and pass a background check. Most places also require approved training before you can be licensed.
The licence is the starting point for several careers. You need it to work as a security guard at malls, offices, hospitals and events. It is also needed for roles such as gaming surveillance officer, where staff watch cameras and help protect casino floors and cash areas.
How to get it
Check your province's rules
Find out who regulates private security where you live and what they require. Rules about age, work status and training differ from place to place.
Complete approved training
Take the basic security guard course that your province accepts. Courses are often short and can be taken in a classroom or online, depending on the province.
Pass the exam
Many provinces require a written test after the course. Study your course notes and practise with sample questions.
Apply for your licence
Send your application to the provincial regulator with your proof of training, your identification and the required fee. A criminal record check is usually part of the process.
Carry your licence at work
Once you are licensed, you must usually carry your licence while on duty. Employers will often ask to see it before they hire you.
The exam
Many provinces and territories require a written exam after the basic training course. It usually tests your knowledge of the law, your legal powers and limits, safety, and how to write reports. A mix of study and practice questions is the best way to prepare.
Licensed by each province
Each province and territory issues this itself, under its own rules. For example — Ontario: Ministry of the Solicitor General (Private Security and Investigative Services Branch). Each province and territory runs its own licensing system, so the rules are not the same everywhere. Training requirements, exams, fees and renewal periods can all differ. For example, in Ontario the licence is issued through the Ministry of the Solicitor General, Private Security and Investigative Services Branch. A licence from one province is generally not valid in another, so check the rules of the place where you plan to work.
Keeping it
A security guard licence does not last forever. You must renew it before it expires to keep working legally. Renewal usually means paying a fee and staying in good standing, and some places may ask for updated checks or training. Keep track of your expiry date so you never work with a lapsed licence.