Private Investigator License Renewal in Ontario: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re a licensed private investigator in Ontario and it’s time for your Private Investigator License Renewal in Ontario, you may be wondering about the process and any new requirements. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know to ensure your renewal is completed correctly, including the new Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) requirement.

1. Know When to Renew Your Private Investigator License in Ontario

Your Private Investigator License Renewal in Ontario must be completed before it expires. You can submit your renewal application up to 90 calendar days before your license expiration date. For example, if your license expires on February 22, 2025, you can begin the renewal process anytime before November 22, 2024.

You will receive an email that looks like this:

2. CRJMC Requirement for Private Investigator License Renewal in Ontario

Starting February 18, 2024, all Private Investigator License Renewal in Ontario applicants—including those renewing their licenses—are required to submit a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC). This is a significant change to the renewal process, and it’s essential to understand how to obtain and submit the CRJMC.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Where to Get It: You can obtain the CRJMC from any of the following sources:
  • A municipal police service
  • A First Nations police service
  • The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP)
  • A private business authorized to provide police record checks.
• Timeliness: Your CRJMC must not be older than six months when you submit it as part of your renewal application.
• Digital vs. Physical Copies:
  • For online applications, only digital PDF versions of the CRJMC will be accepted.
  • For mail-in applications, only original physical copies of the CRJMC will be accepted.

3. Gather Your Documents for Private Investigator License Renewal in Ontario

Before you can proceed with your renewal application, you need to ensure you have all the required documents. These include:

• Two forms of Canadian-issued ID.
• Your Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC).

Once you have these documents ready, you can proceed to submit your application.

This is what the CRJMC looks like:

4. Submit Your Application Online

The quickest way to renew your Private Investigator License in Ontario is by applying online.

Here’s how:

• Step 1: Create or access your My Ontario account at: My Ontario Account.
• Step 2: Fill in your details and upload your documents, including the CRJMC and your two forms of Canadian-issued ID. Be sure your documents are in the correct format (digital PDFs for online submissions).

This is what the portal will look like when you are finished uploading everything:

• Step 3: After your application is processed and approved, you will receive an email notification when your digital license is available. You can download and print your new license directly from your My Ontario account.

Once you submit the application, this is what you will receive before you get the renewed digital license:

5. Track Your Application

Once you’ve submitted your renewal application, you can check the status of your application at any time through your My Ontario account.

6. Need a CRJMC? We Can Help!

If you’re looking for a fast and convenient way to get your Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC), we offer this service for only $59.99 + tax. It’s a seamless process that you can purchase directly from our website, ensuring you meet all the requirements for your license renewal.

7. Contact Information

If you have any questions or need assistance, you can contact ServiceOntario:

• Toronto: (416) 212-1650
• Toll-Free: 1-866-767-7454
• Or visit the official Ontario website for more information: Security Guards and Private Investigators.

FAQ

Can I renew my security guard license after it expires in Ontario?

You must submit the licence renewal form (PDF) before your licence expires. Otherwise, you will need to apply as if it were a new licence and pay the new, higher licence fee. You can also renew your security licence online.

Do you need a license to be a private investigator in Ontario?

Yes, to work as a private investigator in Ontario, you must have a valid license issued by the Ministry of the Solicitor General. The Ministry is responsible for regulating the private investigation industry, which is governed by the Ontario Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005.

How much does it cost to renew your security license in Ontario?

It costs $80 to renew an Ontario security licence, not including tax. You will receive a digital licence card, which you can use immediately, and the original licence card will be mailed to you within eight weeks.

How long does it take to get a digital security license in Ontario?

Most applications are processed within 60 to 90 business days. More complex applications may take longer. However, online applicants can access a printable digital licence certificate as soon as their application is approved.

What certification do I need to become a licensed private investigator?

To become a licensed private investigator, you need to complete the 50-hour mandatory training, which we offer online at Training Centre Canada for $199.99 + tax. Upon completion, you will receive your TCN, making it the best course to kickstart your private investigative career. Start with the best, train with the best!

Final Thoughts

Renewing your private investigator license is a straightforward process, but with the new CRJMC requirement, it’s important to stay on top of the details. Make sure you submit your CRJMC on time and choose the method of application that works best for you. If you need help with obtaining your CRJMC, remember we offer a convenient and affordable service on our website.

Don’t wait until the last minute—start your renewal process today to ensure you stay compliant and continue working as a licensed private investigator in Ontario.