How much is a security guard license in Ontario?

The license fee is $80 (tax included). Add $35 for the licensing exam plus the cost of the 40-hour training course and your CRJMC police check.

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

A correctly completed online application is typically processed within 2 business days after training, the licensing exam, and CRJMC are complete.

How long is a security guard license valid in Ontario?

Licenses expire on your second birthday after issuance (approximately two years) and cost $80 to renew.

Do I need a CRJMC to apply for a security guard license?

Yes. As of February 18, 2024, a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check issued by a municipal, First Nations, or Ontario Provincial Police service is required and must be less than six months old.

Can I work as a security guard without a license in Ontario?

No. Ontario's Private Security and Investigative Services Act requires a valid license to work as a security guard. Working unlicensed can result in fines and prosecution.

How to Get Your Security Guard License in Ontario

Getting your Ontario security guard license involves four steps: completing a 40-hour training course, passing the licensing exam, obtaining a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC), and submitting your application. This guide walks you through every step, cost, and timeline for 2026.

Security Guard License Requirements in Ontario

To be eligible to apply for an Ontario security guard license, you must:

Be 18 years of age or older
Be legally eligible to work in Canada
Not have any of the 83 designated offences that would prohibit licensing (see our legal resources for details)
Complete the mandatory 40-hour training course from a Ministry-approved provider
Pass the licensing exam
Provide a recent Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC)

Training and Testing Requirements

Before applying for a security guard license, you must complete the 40-hour Ontario Security Training course to receive your training number.
Book your security licensing exam at a DriveTest centre using your training number. The exam fee is $35 plus tax.
After passing the exam, apply for your Security Guard License at a cost of $80 (tax included). You only need to complete the 40-hour training once in your lifetime.

Beginning February 18, 2024, a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) must be completed by a police service

This includes checks from the following types of police services:

municipal police service
First Nations police service
the Ontario Provincial Police

Checks completed by a non-police service will not be accepted.

Applications on or before February 17, 2024 can be submitted without a CRJMC.

In addition:

CRJMCs must be completed within six months at the time of licence application.
Applicants will be required to pay a fee to obtain their CRJMC.
Fees and processing times to obtain a CRJMC vary depending on the police service.
The CRJMC must be in a PDF format that has been digitally issued by the police service.
Applicants who have a physical copy of a CRJMC must submit their application by mail. Only the original physical copy of your CRJMC will be accepted.

How to Apply for Your Security Guard License

Complete the 40-hour training course from a Ministry-approved provider and receive your training number.
Book and pass the licensing exam at a DriveTest centre ($35 + tax).
Obtain your CRJMC from a municipal, First Nations, or Ontario Provincial Police service.
Submit your application online through ServiceOntario with the $80 fee and your digital CRJMC PDF.
Receive your license — status is viewable online within two business days. A printable digital license is available immediately upon approval; your plastic card arrives by mail.

Notice: ServiceOntario does not accept security guard license applications at its service counters.

How Long Does It Take to Get Licensed?

A correctly completed online application can take as little as 2 days to process and received by email.

License Expiry and Renewal

Your Ontario security guard license expires on your second birthday after the date of issue (approximately two years). Renewal is $80 and does not require retaking the 40-hour training course — you only complete the training once in your lifetime.

Licensed Security Guard Responsibilities

Licensed security guards must carry a valid license at all times while on duty. You must identify yourself and show the front of your license to anyone who asks — this includes employers, police officers, and members of the public.