What You Need to Know About Emergency First Aid & CPR/AED

If you’re working toward becoming a licensed security guard in Ontario, there’s one requirement that often gets misunderstood and it can delay your entire licensing process if you’re not careful. Emergency first aid and CPR certification is not optional. It is a mandatory part of your security guard training.

Every week, we hear from students who have completed their course but cannot receive their Training Completion Number (TCN) because they didn’t realize they needed their first aid certification in order to receive their TCN and book their exam.

This guide breaks it down clearly so you can avoid delays and move forward in your career faster.

Why First Aid Is Mandatory for Security Guards in Ontario

Under the requirements set by the Ministry of the Solicitor General, all security guards must complete:

• 40-hour training program

• Emergency first aid and CPR certification

This means your first aid training is not separate—it is part of your required education.

Without it, you cannot:

• Receive your Training Completion Number (TCN)

• Book your provincial licensing exam

• Move forward toward getting your licence

This is where many students get stuck.

The Most Common Mistake Students Make

A very common misunderstanding is thinking that first aid is only required after passing the exam.

That is incorrect.

You must complete your emergency first aid certification before your TCN is issued.

No TCN = no exam booking.

This is why students who submit their course completion without their certificate experience delays.

What Is Emergency First Aid & CPR/AED Level C?

The required certification is:

Emergency First Aid CPR/AED Level C

This is a recognized first aid course that teaches you how to respond to real-world emergencies, including:

• Emergency scene management

• Severe bleeding

• Choking (adult)

• Shock and unconsciousness

• Adult CPR and AED use

This type of CPR course is specifically designed for workplace environments, including security roles where you may be the first responder on scene.

Why First Aid Training Matters in the Security Industry

Security guards are often the first people to respond in an emergency.

Whether you’re working in:

• Retail

• Healthcare

• Corporate buildings

• Events

• Residential properties

You may be required to act immediately before emergency services arrive.

Having proper first aid training allows you to:

• Stabilize a situation

• Protect life and safety

• Reduce liability for your employer

• Act confidently under pressure

This is why completing a CPR course is not just about compliance, it’s about being prepared.

What Happens If You Don’t Have Your CPR Certificate?

If you finish your security guard training but do not submit your first aid certificate:

• Your TCN will NOT be issued

• Your file remains incomplete

• You cannot book your exam

Even if you have completed every module, your training is not considered complete until your requirement is met.

What If You Already Have First Aid Certification?

If you have already completed a first aid course, you’re ahead, but you still need to submit it properly.

Your certificate must:

• Be valid (not expired)

• Show your full name

• Include the course name and level

• Show the training provider

• Include the completion date

You must upload this during your course completion process.

What If You Don’t Have Your Certificate Yet?

If you don’t currently have your certification, you need to complete a CPR course before your TCN can be issued.

You can complete your training through any recognized provider that meets provincial standards.

However, many students choose to complete their Emergency First AidCPR AED Level C through Training Centre Canada for convenience.

We assist with arranging your training and offer options across Ontario, including:

• Toronto & GTA

• Barrie

• Ottawa

• Kitchener-Waterloo

• Thunder Bay

How First Aid Fits Into Your Licensing Timeline

Here’s how the process actually works:

1. Complete your security guard training

2. Complete your first aid course

3. Submit your consent form AND certificate

4. Receive your TCN

5. Book your exam

6. Apply for your licence

If you skip step 2, the entire process stops.

Why Completing Your Certification Early Is the Best Strategy

The best approach is simple:

Complete your training as early as possible.

This allows you to:

• Avoid delays

• Submit everything at once

• Get your TCN faster

• Book your exam sooner

Students who complete their emergency first aid early move through the licensing process significantly faster.

First Aid Is More Than a Requirement, It’s a Skill That Sets You Apart

Beyond compliance, having first aid certification gives you a competitive edge.

Employers value candidates who:

• Are fully prepared

• Can respond to emergencies

• Require no additional onboarding

Completing a recognized CPR course shows professionalism and readiness for the role.

Final Reminder: Don’t Let This Delay Your Career

If you take one thing away from this:

You cannot move forward without your first aid certification.

Before submitting your course completion:

• Make sure your certificate is ready

• Upload it with your consent form

• Double-check that all details are clear

This small step can save you days or even weeks of delays.

Ready to Complete Your First Aid Training?

If you still need your certification, Training Centre Canada makes it simple to get started.

Our Emergency First Aid, CPR/AED Level C program is:

• Ministry compliant

• Flexible

• Available across Ontario

• Designed specifically for security professionals

FAQs

Do I need first aid before my security guard exam?
Yes. Your first aid certification is required before your TCN is issued, which you need to book your exam.

What type of first aid is required?
You need Emergency First Aid CPR/AED Level C.

Can I take a first aid course online?
You can complete part of your first aid course online, but an in-person component is required.

What happens if I submit my course without my certificate?
Your TCN will be delayed until your first aid certificate is received and verified.

How long is a CPR course?
Most CPR course options take one day in class or a blended format with online learning plus in-person training.

Ready to move forward in your security career?

Don’t let a missing first aid certificate delay your Training Completion Number. Complete your Emergency First Aid & CPR/AED Level C certification now so you can finish your training, receive your TCN, and book your exam without delays.

Training Centre Canada makes it simple with flexible scheduling and locations across Ontario.

Register for your Emergency First Aid & CPR/AED Level C course today!

If you want to be the best, train with the best.