How to Become a Security Guard in Canada — Requirements by Province (2026)

How to Become a Security Guard in Canada

Becoming a licensed security guard in Canada requires meeting provincial licensing requirements, which include completing mandatory training, passing a background check, and submitting a licensing application. This guide covers the requirements for every province where security guard licensing is regulated.

General Requirements (All Provinces)

Before diving into province-specific details, all Canadian provinces require:

• Minimum age: : 18 years old
• Legal status: : Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or valid work permit
• Criminal record check: : A clean or acceptable criminal background
• Training: : Province-specific mandatory training program
• First aid certification: : Required in most provinces (Standard First Aid + CPR Level C)
• Physical fitness: : Ability to perform security duties

Ontario Security Guard Licence (PSISA)

Ontario's security industry is regulated under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA), administered by the Ministry of the Solicitor General.

Requirements

• Complete a **40-hour training program** from an approved provider
• Pass the **Ontario security guard test** (Ministry exam)
• Submit a **criminal record check** (CPIC name-based check accepted)
• Pay the **licence fee** ($80 for a 2-year licence)
• Provide proof of **legal eligibility to work in Canada**

Training Content

The 40-hour Ontario security guard training covers:

1. Introduction to the security industry
2. Legal authorities and responsibilities
3. Emergency response procedures
4. Communication and conflict resolution
5. Use of force theory
6. Report writing
7. Health and safety awareness

Application Process

1. Complete the 40-hour training course
2. Pass the Ministry test at a ServiceOntario location
3. Gather documents: training certificate, criminal record check, ID, photo
4. Apply online through ServiceOntario or by mail
5. Receive your licence card (processing takes 2-6 weeks)

Cost Breakdown

Alberta Security Guard Licence

Alberta's security industry is regulated under the Security Services and Investigators Act, administered by the Registrar of Security Services.

Requirements

• Complete a **40-hour training program** through an approved provider
• Pass a **criminal record check**
• Submit a licence application to the Registrar
• Pay the **licence fee** ($60 for a 2-year licence)

Training Content

Alberta's 40-hour program covers:

1. Legislation and legal studies
2. Security guard roles and responsibilities
3. Emergency procedures and first aid
4. Communication and public relations
5. Report writing and documentation
6. Ethics and professionalism

Application Process

1. Complete training with an approved Alberta provider
2. Obtain a criminal record check (online CPIC check accepted)
3. Submit application through the Alberta government portal
4. Receive your security worker licence (processing takes 2-4 weeks)

British Columbia Security Worker Licence

BC's security industry is regulated under the Security Services Act, administered by the Registrar of Security Services.

Requirements

• Complete the **Basic Security Training (BST)** course (40 hours)
• Pass a **criminal record check** through the Registrar
• Submit an application to the BC Registrar of Security Services
• Pay the **licence fee** ($85 for a 1-year licence)

Training Content

The BST program covers:

1. Legal authorities and limitations
2. Emergency response
3. Communication and conflict management
4. Report writing
5. Ethics and professionalism
6. Use of force

Manitoba Security Guard Licence

Manitoba's security industry is regulated under The Private Investigators and Security Guards Act.

Requirements

• Complete a Manitoba-approved training program
• Pass a criminal record check
• Submit an application to Manitoba Justice
• Pay the licence fee

Saskatchewan Security Guard Licence

Saskatchewan's security industry is regulated under The Private Investigators and Security Guards Act, 1997.

Requirements

• Complete a Saskatchewan-approved training program
• Pass a criminal record check
• Submit an application to the Ministry of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety
• Pay the licence fee

Quebec Security Guard Licence (BSP)

Quebec's security industry is regulated under the Private Security Act, administered by the Bureau de la sécurité privée (BSP).

Requirements

• Complete a **70-hour training program** (higher than other provinces)
• Pass the BSP exam
• Submit a criminal background check
• Apply through the BSP
• Pay the licence fee

Criminal Record Check for Security Guard Licensing

A criminal record check is required for security guard licensing in every Canadian province. Here is what you need to know:

What Type of Check Do You Need?

Most provinces accept a standard CPIC name-based criminal record check for security guard licensing. This is the check SafeHire provides online — results in 15 minutes.

What Disqualifies You?

Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from becoming a security guard. Each province reviews applications individually, considering:

• The nature and severity of the offence
• How long ago the offence occurred
• Whether you have been rehabilitated
• The relevance of the offence to security work

However, certain serious convictions (violent offences, sexual offences, theft-related offences) will likely result in denial.

How to Get Your Background Check

1. Visit [SafeHire.ca](https://www.safehire.ca) and complete the online application
2. Verify your identity digitally
3. Pay $64.99 and receive results in 15 minutes
4. Download the PDF and submit it with your licence application

Security Guard Salary in Canada

Experienced security guards, those with specialized training (armed, executive protection), and supervisors earn significantly more.

Career Advancement Opportunities

After obtaining your basic security guard licence, you can pursue:

• Security supervisor/manager: roles
• Loss prevention specialist: positions
• Private investigator: licensing
• Armed security: certification (requires additional training)
• Executive protection: (bodyguard) specialization
• Cybersecurity: transition (with additional education)
• Law enforcement: career (police, CBSA, corrections)

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a criminal record check to become a security guard?

Yes. Every Canadian province requires a criminal record check as part of the security guard licensing process. SafeHire provides an online CPIC check accepted by most provincial regulators — results in 15 minutes.

How long does it take to get a security guard licence?

The training takes about 1 week (40 hours). The licensing application typically takes 2-6 weeks to process. The criminal record check through SafeHire takes 15 minutes. Total timeline: approximately 3-7 weeks from start to licensed.

Can I work as a security guard with a criminal record?

Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you. Provincial registrars review each application individually. Minor, old offences may be acceptable. Serious offences (violence, theft, sexual offences) will likely result in denial.

How much does it cost to become a security guard?

Total costs range from $250–$500 depending on province, including training ($150–$300), licence fee ($60–$85), and criminal record check ($64.99 via SafeHire).

Do I need to renew my security guard licence?

Yes. Most provinces require licence renewal every 1–2 years. Renewal typically requires a current criminal record check and payment of the renewal fee. Some provinces also require continuing education credits.