Who needs a security guard licence in Ontario

You may need a licence if you are paid to do work that consists mainly of protecting persons or property. This includes bodyguards, bouncers and loss prevention personnel. Examples:

• You will need a licence if your main responsibility in a bar or restaurant, for instance, is controlling entrances and patrolling the property to ensure the safety and security of the establishment and its occupants.
• You will not need a licence if you are a hotel, motel or inn manager who may inspect common areas during your shift. Those checks are not the main activity of a manager in this setting. Overseeing the entire operation of the facility, as well as ensuring guest comfort, would typically be your main activity or responsibility.
• You will not need a licence if you are a store clerk who may be required to open or lock up at the end of the business day. This is not your main activity. Selling and stocking merchandise would be considered your main activities.

Eligibility requirements for a security guard licence in Ontario

To be eligible for a security guard licence in Ontario, you must:

• Be 18 years of age or older
• Be eligible to work in Canada
• Have no convictions for a prescribed offence for which you have not been granted a pardon.

Responsibility for obtaining the security guard licence

You are responsible for the security guard licence, not your employer. This means that you are free to change employers or obtain additional employment with another security firm without having to be re-licensed.

It is also your responsibility to renew your licence every year.

Cost for a security guard licence in Ontario

The cost of a security guard licence in Ontario is:

• Security Guard/Private Investigator: $80
• Dual Individual Licence: $160
• Agency Licence Fees: $700
• Dual Agency Licence: $1,400
• Business Registration: $80

How long is a security guard licence valid in Ontario

Security guard licences in Ontario are currently valid for one year from the date of issue.

Note: The Ministry will change the renewal date to the licensee’s birthday and extend the term of licence for renewing individual licence holders to two years. These changes will be introduced on January 30, 2012, and will have no impact on licence fees.

Agencies will still be able to apply for a new licence or renew an existing licence for $700 ($1400 for a dual licence) and the licence will be valid for two years instead of one. Individuals will pay $80 ($160 for a dual licence) for a new licence that expires two birthdays after the date of issue instead of one year from the date of issue. All existing individual licensees with valid licences as of January 30, 2012 will receive an extension of their current licence until one birthday following the current expiry date. Upon renewal, individuals will pay $80/$160 for a licence that is valid for two years.

Where to get a security guard licence application in Ontario

There are two ways you can get an application form and instructions:
You can pick up a copy at the Private Security and Investigative Services Branch 777 Bay Street, 3rd floor, Toronto, ON, M7A 2J6
or
Fill out the security guard licence form online, print and send to the ministry, along with all applicable fees and supporting documentation.