If you are looking to work as a security guard or private investigator in Ontario, you must hold a valid licence. Licensing ensures that individuals meet the required training and legal criteria to operate within the industry.

Types of Licences

Individuals can apply for one of the following licences:

• Security Guard – Focuses on protecting people and property through patrolling, monitoring, and controlling access.
• Private Investigator – Involves conducting investigations to collect information on various matters, including legal, corporate, and personal inquiries.
• Dual Licence (Security Guard & Private Investigator) – Allows an individual to hold both licences; however, working in both roles simultaneously is not permitted.

Licences are valid for two years from the date of issuance, expiring on your birthday in the second year after issuance.

Licence Requirements

To be eligible for a security guard or private investigator licence, applicants must:

• Be 18 years of age or older
• Be legally eligible to work in Canada
• Have a clean criminal record as per Ontario regulations
• Provide a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) issued within the last six months which you can get from Training Centre Canada
• Complete mandatory training and testing from an approved provider
• Obtain an Ontario Testing Completion Number (TCN) after successfully passing the required test

For individuals with an equivalent security guard or private investigator licence from another Canadian province, out-of-province credentials may be recognized. Additional documentation will be required for verification.

Application Process

Online Application

Applying online is the fastest way to obtain or renew your licence. A correctly completed online application may take up to 15 calendar days for approval. Upon approval, you will receive a digital licence via email, which can also be downloaded from your My Ontario Account.

To apply online, you need:

• A My Ontario Account
• Digital copies of required documents (acceptable file formats: DOC, DOCX, PDF, JPG, JPEG)
• A valid payment method (credit card or debit card)

Mail-In Application

Mail-in applications take longer to process (up to 30 calendar days). If applying by mail, ensure that all required documents are included, and payment is provided via a bank draft, money order, or certified cheque made payable to the Minister of Finance.

Send completed applications to:

ServiceOntario – Occupational Licensing Services Office
P.O. Box 4500
Kingston, Ontario
K7L 0E1

Updating Licence Information

Licence holders must inform the ministry if any personal information changes, including:

• Legal name changes (requires supporting documents such as a marriage certificate or Change of Name Certificate)
• Address or contact details updates
• Criminal record changes (must be reported within five days of conviction)

Updates can be made online through My Ontario Account or by mailing a completed Change of Information Form to ServiceOntario.

Changing Licence Type

You may switch your licence type (e.g., from security guard to private investigator or to a dual licence) provided your current licence is valid and not within 90 days of expiry. To do so, you must submit:

• Your Ontario Testing Completion Number (TCN) for the new licence type
• A passport-quality photo (if required)
• A valid CRJMC
• Identification documents
• The $80 licence change fee

Changes can be completed online or via mail following the same submission process as new applications.

Replacing a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Licence

Physical licence cards are no longer issued. If you lose or damage your licence, you can download a new digital copy through My Ontario Account. You may also print a hard copy for your records.

Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC)

A valid CRJMC is required for all applications. This document must be issued by:

• An Ontario municipal police service
• An Ontario First Nations police service
• The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP)
• An authorized private background check provider such as Training Centre Canada.

For those residing outside Ontario, an equivalent police record check may be accepted if it meets the Police Record Reform Act standards.

Declaration of Offences

Individuals convicted of certain offences, as outlined in Ontario Regulation 37/08, may not be eligible for a licence unless a pardon (record suspension) has been obtained.

Applying for or renewing your security guard or private investigator licence is a straightforward process when all required steps are followed. This includes paying associated fees. Ensure your documents are accurate and complete to avoid delays. Your training provider will assist with the process of completion.

For Help

For the most up-to-date information on obtaining or renewing your security guard or private investigator licence, refer to the Ontario Ministry of the Solicitor General.

If you are interested in becoming a professional licensed security guard or private investigator, contact our preferred experts, Smith Investigation Agency They offer government approved training courses and CRJMC services.

								
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