Frequently Asked Questions :: Ontario Security Training

Ontario Security Training is an employment network that connects security guards and private investigators with employers who provide security services. Many employers have chosen the Ontario Security Training networks as their primary source for new recruits.

As a security guard or a private investigator, why should I sign up?

Ontario Security Training Inc. provides introduction training at no cost to the applicant. Training includes understanding of the various laws that apply to Security Guards and Private Investigators.

How do I get a job using the Ontario Security Training employment network?

Once your introductory training is complete, your information will be entered into a job bank for employers to view. The higher the training level you complete, the more attractive you will become to employers. It is also very important to obtain a licence from the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services when applying for a position.

Does everyone acting as security guard or Private investigator have to be licenced by the Ministry?

If you are being paid to do work that consists mainly of protecting persons or properties then you need to be licenced. This includes anyone acting as a bodyguard, bouncer and private investigation (loss prevention personnel).
For examples:

You will need a licence if your main responsibility is controlling access to a restaurant 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 manager who may inspect common areas during your shift. Those checks are not the main activity of a manager in this context.

Do I need a private investigator's licence?

You will need a private investigator's licence if you’re being paid and your main duties are:

Conducting investigations in order to provide information
Conducting investigations into the character or actions of a person
Conducting investigations into an individual's business or occupation
Conducting investigations into the whereabouts of persons or property.

What are the requirements to be eligible to obtain a security guard/private investigator licence?

To be eligible for a licence, you must:

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

Who is responsible for registering my licence – me or my employer?

It is now the applicants’ responsibility to register and/or renew their own licence every year.

What is the difference between a private investigator and a security guard?

Security Guards are uniformed persons acting to prevent loss to property and persons by maintaining a highly visible presence to deter unlawful acts, observing the property (either directly, through patrols, or by watching alarm systems or video cameras) for signs of crime, fire or disorder; then taking action and/or reporting any incidents to their client, employer and/or emergency services as appropriate.

A private investigator (PI) or private eye, loss prevention specialist, LPS, is a person who undertakes investigations, usually for a private citizen who may be licensed by a governing body or some other entity not involved with a government or police organization. They often work for attorneys in or on behalf of a defense attorney and department stores to capture and arrest thieves. Many work for insurance companies to investigate suspicious claims. Before the advent of no-fault divorce, many private investigators were hired to search for illegal conduct within marriage to establish grounds for a divorce.