How Long Does It Take to Become a Licensed Security Guard in Ontario?

If you’re thinking about becoming a licensed security guard in Ontario, one of the first questions you probably have is:

“How long does the process actually take?”

The short answer is that many people can complete the process in as little as two to four weeks, while others may take several months depending on how quickly they complete their training, schedule their provincial exam, obtain the required documentation, and submit their licence application.

The good news is that becoming a security guard is one of the fastest ways to enter a rewarding and growing industry. Whether you’re looking for a full-time career, a flexible part-time job, or a stepping stone into policing, corrections, investigations, or emergency services, obtaining your Ontario Security Guard Licence is the first step.

In this guide, we’ll explain every stage of the licensing process, discuss realistic timelines, identify common delays, and provide practical tips to help you become licensed as quickly as possible.

Table of Contents

• Why Become a Security Guard?
• Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
• Step 2: Complete Your Ontario Security Guard Training
• Step 3: Obtain Emergency First Aid & CPR Certification
• Step 4: Receive Your Training Completion Number
• Step 5: Write the Provincial Security Guard Exam
• Step 6: Obtain a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC)
• Step 7: Apply for Your Ontario Security Guard Licence
• How Long Does Each Step Take?
• Common Delays
• Tips to Get Licensed Faster
• Frequently Asked Questions

Why Become a Security Guard?

Security guards play an important role in protecting people, property, businesses, and public spaces across Ontario. Every day, licensed security professionals work in hospitals, office buildings, shopping centres, industrial facilities, schools, condominiums, construction sites, events, and government buildings.

The demand for qualified security professionals continues to grow as businesses recognize the importance of protecting employees, customers, and assets.

Many people also choose security because it offers:

• A relatively quick path into a new career
• Flexible schedules
• Full-time and part-time opportunities
• Competitive wages
• Valuable experience for future careers in policing, corrections, investigations, and emergency services

If your goal is to start working as quickly as possible, understanding the licensing process will help you avoid unnecessary delays.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

Before applying for an Ontario Security Guard Licence, you must meet the eligibility requirements established by the Government of Ontario.

Generally, applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be legally entitled to work in Canada.
• Successfully complete the required training.
• Pass the provincial licensing examination.
• Submit the required licence application.

Complete licensing requirements are available through the Government of Ontario.

External Resource:
Government of Ontario – Security Guard Licensing Requirements

Step 2: Complete Your Ontario Security Guard Training

Every applicant must successfully complete an approved 40-hour Ontario Security Guard Training Course before writing the provincial examination.

The course covers the knowledge and skills required to work safely and professionally within Ontario’s private security industry.

Topics include:

• The Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA)
• Roles and responsibilities of security guards
• Canadian legal authorities
• Use of force awareness
• Emergency response procedures
• Report writing
• Communication skills
• Conflict management
• Diversity and professionalism
• Health and safety
• Patrol techniques
• Emergency planning
• Ethics

At Training Centre Canada, our online course allows students to complete their training at their own pace, making it easier to balance work, family, or school commitments while preparing for a new career.

Unlike traditional classroom courses that require attendance on specific dates, online training allows students to complete lessons whenever it fits their schedule.

Some students finish within a week, while others spread the course over several weeks.

How Long Does the Training Take?

The Ministry requires a minimum of 40 hours of approved training.

How quickly you complete those hours depends on your availability.

For example:

Although you may be eager to finish as quickly as possible, taking the time to understand the material will better prepare you for both the provincial exam and your future career.

Step 3: Complete Emergency First Aid & CPR Certification

Ontario also requires security guards to hold a valid Emergency First Aid and CPR certificate when applying for a licence.

Many students choose to complete this certification while they are working through their online security training, allowing both requirements to be completed around the same time.

Training Centre Canada can also help students obtain this certification through our approved training partners.

Scheduling your First Aid course early can prevent delays later in the licensing process.

Step 4: Receive Your Training Completion Number (TCN)

Once you’ve successfully completed your approved security guard training, your training provider submits your completion information to the Ministry.

You will then receive your Training Completion Number (TCN).

This number confirms that you have successfully completed the required training and allows you to register for the provincial licensing examination.

Most students receive their Training Completion Number within a few business days after successfully completing the course requirements, although processing times may vary.

Step 5: Write the Ontario Security Guard Exam

After receiving your Training Completion Number, you can register to write the Ontario Security Guard Licence Exam.

The provincial examination is administered by the Ministry’s authorized testing provider and consists of:

• 60 multiple-choice questions
• 75-minute time limit
• Minimum passing score of 62%

Questions cover material from the approved security guard curriculum, including legal authorities, communication, emergency procedures, report writing, ethics, and professional responsibilities.

Many students are understandably nervous about the exam, but those who complete the training carefully and review the material typically perform well.

Our recommendation is to review each module before scheduling your exam rather than rushing through the training.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Exam Date?

Exam availability depends on your location and whether you choose an in-person or online proctored examination.

Some students are able to write within a few days, while others may wait one to three weeks during busier periods.

Booking early is one of the easiest ways to keep your licensing process moving.

What Happens If You Don’t Pass?

Not everyone passes on their first attempt, and that’s okay.

If you don’t achieve the required passing mark, you can rewrite the examination after paying the applicable exam fee.

Many students use their first attempt to identify weaker areas before studying those topics in greater detail.

The key is to review the course material thoroughly before scheduling another attempt.

Step 6: Obtain a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC)

Before applying for your licence, you’ll also need a valid Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC).

This background screening confirms your eligibility and is a required part of the licensing process.

Training Centre Canada offers a fast and convenient online CRJMC service to help students complete this requirement.

It’s important to ensure your CRJMC is current, as outdated background checks may not be accepted during the application process.

Step 7: Apply for Your Ontario Security Guard Licence

Once you’ve completed your training, passed the provincial exam, obtained your Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC), and gathered your required identification, you’re ready to apply for your Ontario Security Guard Licence.

Applications are submitted through the Government of Ontario. When applying, you’ll typically need:

• Your Ontario Testing Completion Number (issued after passing the licensing exam)
• Your Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC)
• Two pieces of valid government-issued identification
• A passport-style photo that meets the ministry’s requirements
• Your Ontario mailing address
• Payment for the licence fee

Correctly completed online applications are generally processed faster than paper applications. The Government of Ontario advises that online applications can take up to 15 calendar days, while mailed applications may take up to 30 calendar days.

For complete application instructions, visit the Government of Ontario’s licensing page:

https://www.ontario.ca/page/security-guard-or-private-investigator-licence-individuals

So… How Long Does the Entire Process Take?

One of the biggest misconceptions is that becoming a licensed security guard takes months. While it certainly can if you work through the process slowly, many motivated students complete everything much sooner.

Here are some realistic timelines.

Fastest Possible Timeline

This assumes you begin training immediately, complete lessons consistently, book your First Aid course early, and secure an early exam date.

Estimated Total: Approximately 2–4 weeks.

Typical Timeline

Most students balance training with work, family, or school commitments.

A more realistic timeline looks like this:

• Week 1–3: Complete training
• Week 3–4: Complete First Aid
• Week 4: Receive your Training Completion Number
• Week 5: Write the provincial exam
• Week 6: Submit your licence application
• Week 7–8: Receive your digital licence

For most people, the complete process takes approximately one to two months.

What Can Delay Your Licence?

Although the licensing process itself is straightforward, there are several common reasons applicants experience delays.

Waiting Too Long to Start First Aid

Some students complete their security guard training before realizing they still need Emergency First Aid and CPR certification.

Booking your First Aid course while you’re completing your online training helps keep everything moving.

Waiting Too Long to Book the Exam

Exam appointments may not always be available immediately, especially during busy periods.

As soon as you receive your Training Completion Number, register for your exam so you can secure the earliest available date. The Ministry’s testing program requires a valid Training Completion Number before you can register for the exam.

Incorrect Application Information

Simple mistakes can slow down the approval process.

Examples include:

• Uploading incorrect identification
• Poor-quality photographs
• Missing documents
• Incorrect names that don’t match your identification
• Submitting an outdated CRJMC

Taking a few extra minutes to review your application before submitting it can save weeks of waiting.

Not Studying for the Exam

Although many students pass the exam on their first attempt, rushing through the training or skipping review can lead to unnecessary rewrites.

The Ontario Security Guard examination consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, allows 75 minutes, and requires a passing score of 62%.

A little extra preparation now can help you avoid delays later.

Tips to Get Licensed Faster

If your goal is to begin working as quickly as possible, these tips can help speed up the process.

Enrol in an Approved Training Course Early

Choose a reputable training provider that offers flexible online learning so you can complete your course around your existing schedule.

Training Centre Canada’s online Ontario Security Guard Course allows students to work through lessons from virtually anywhere, making it easier to finish quickly while still learning the material.

Schedule First Aid Immediately

Don’t wait until after you’ve finished your course.

Book your Emergency First Aid and CPR certification while you’re completing your online training.

Study Consistently

Instead of trying to memorize everything the night before your exam, review each lesson as you progress through the course.

This not only improves your chances of passing the exam but also helps prepare you for real-world situations once you’re employed.

Apply Online

Online applications are generally processed more quickly than paper applications when all required documents are submitted correctly.

Complete Your CRJMC Early

Many applicants wait until after passing the exam before thinking about their Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check.

Obtaining it early means you’ll have everything ready when it’s time to apply for your licence.

Training Centre Canada offers an online CRJMC service designed specifically for security guard applicants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work as a security guard before I receive my licence?

No.

You must receive your Ontario Security Guard Licence before working in a position that requires licensing under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act.

Is online security guard training accepted in Ontario?

Yes.

Online training is accepted provided it is delivered by an approved training provider and meets Ontario’s training requirements. The province recognizes both classroom-based and web-based training that complies with the required curriculum.

Do I need First Aid before taking the course?

Not necessarily.

Many students complete their First Aid certification while they are completing their online security guard training.

What score do I need to pass the Ontario Security Guard Exam?

The minimum passing score is 62%.

How much does the licence cost?

The Government of Ontario charges a licensing fee when you submit your application. Additional costs may include your training course, Emergency First Aid & CPR certification, examination fee, and Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check. Current government fees are available on the official Ontario licensing website.

Can international students become security guards?

Eligibility depends on whether you are legally entitled to work in Canada and meet all licensing requirements established by the Government of Ontario. Review the current eligibility requirements before enrolling in a training program.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a licensed security guard in Ontario is a straightforward process when you understand the required steps and plan ahead.

For many people, the entire process can be completed in as little as two to four weeks, while others may take a little longer depending on their schedule and the availability of training, testing, and documentation.

The key is staying organized:

• Complete your approved training.
• Obtain your Emergency First Aid & CPR certification.
• Receive your Training Completion Number.
• Pass the provincial licensing exam.
• Obtain your Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check.
• Submit a complete online application.

By planning each step in advance, you’ll avoid many of the common delays that prevent applicants from starting their new careers.

Start Your Security Career with Training Centre Canada

If you’re ready to begin your journey toward becoming a licensed security guard, Training Centre Canada is here to help.

Our Ministry-compliant online training is designed to provide you with the knowledge and confidence needed to complete your training and prepare for the provincial licensing exam.

Whether you’re looking for a new career, a flexible part-time opportunity, or a pathway into policing, corrections, or private investigations, we’ll help you take the first step.

Helpful Resources

• Ontario Security Guard Training Course
• Emergency First Aid & CPR Certification
• Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC)
• Security Guard Careers with Smith Security
• Learn More About Security Services
• Interested in Private Investigations?