If you’re interested in starting a career in the security industry, becoming a licensed security guard is the first and most important step. Security guards play a crucial role in protecting people, property, and assets across Canada, and the demand for trained, professional guards continues to grow every year.
Whether you want to work in retail security, mobile patrol, loss prevention, fire watch, event security, or commercial buildings, this guide explains exactly how to become a licensed security guard, what training you need, how long it takes, and how to get hired quickly.
What Is a Licensed Security Guard?
A licensed security guard is a trained professional who has completed the required government-approved training and passed the provincial licensing exam. With this license, you are legally permitted to work at job sites such as:
- Shopping malls
- Residential buildings
- Construction sites
- Warehouses
- Industrial facilities
- Events and concerts
- Truck yards
- Hospitals & retail stores
Every province in Canada requires security guards to hold a valid license before working.
How to Become a Licensed Security Guard (Step-by-Step)
While each province has slight differences, the overall process is similar across Canada. Here is the complete breakdown:
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
Most provinces require the following before you can apply:
✔ Must be 18 years or older
✔ Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or have legal work authorization
✔ Must have a clean criminal record (no serious offenses)
✔ Must be able to speak and write English
✔ Must complete the mandatory security training
Some employers also prefer applicants with:
- Valid driver’s license
- CPR/First Aid certificate
- Experience in customer service or customer-facing roles
Step 2: Complete Mandatory Security Guard Training
Every province requires new applicants to complete Basic Security Guard Training (BSGT) through an approved training provider.
What the training covers:
- Legal authorities & use-of-force principles
- Emergency response procedures
- Fire safety basics
- Report writing & documentation
- Communication and conflict resolution
- Patrol techniques
- Professionalism and ethics
- WHMIS and workplace safety
How long is security guard training?
Training typically requires 30–40 hours (varies by province).
Where to take the training?
Training can be done:
- In-class
- Online
- Through government-approved institutes
Step 3: Pass the Provincial Security Guard Exam
After training, you must pass a written exam.
Exam Format (Typical):
- 60–70 multiple-choice questions
- 75–90 minutes
- Covers laws, safety, communication, emergencies, and professionalism
Passing Score:
Usually 62% – 75%, depending on the province.
Once you pass, you receive your exam certificate, which is required for your license application.
Step 4: Submit Your Security Guard Licence Application
Apply through your province’s regulatory authority:
- Alberta: Alberta Justice
- Ontario: ServiceOntario
- British Columbia: Security Programs & Police Technology Division
- Manitoba: Private Investigators and Security Guard Program
- Saskatchewan: Ministry of Justice
- New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI, Newfoundland: Provincial policing/security departments
Documents You’ll Need:
✔ Completed application form
✔ Training certificate
✔ Exam certificate
✔ Passport-style photo
✔ Government ID
✔ Criminal record check
✔ Application fee
How long does it take?
Most provinces issue licenses within 2–6 weeks.
Step 5: Start Applying for Security Guard Jobs
Once you receive your license number and physical card, you can apply for positions such as:
- Private security guard
- Mobile patrol guard
- Loss prevention officer
- Retail security
- Construction site security
- Fire watch guard
- Event security
- Concierge security
- Corporate/building security
Alpine Protection Services, for example, hires licensed guards across Alberta for various sectors including commercial, residential, retail, industrial, and construction.
How Much Do Security Guards Earn in Canada?
Security guard salaries depend on experience, shift type, site risk level, and the city you work in.
Average Salary Range:
- $16 – $25/hour for entry-level
- $25 – $35/hour for specialized roles (concierge, loss prevention, industrial)
- $40+/hour for remote, oil sands, or high-risk assignments
How Long Does the Whole Process Take?
Here is the typical timeline:
- Training: 5–7 days
- Exam booking + completion: 1–2 weeks
- License approval: 2–6 weeks
Total time: ~ 3–8 weeks to become a licensed security guard.
Why Become a Security Guard?
✔ Stable demand across Canada
✔ Opportunities for career growth
✔ Shift flexibility (full-time, part-time, night shifts)
✔ Good entry-level income
✔ A rewarding career protecting people and property
Many guards later advance into roles like:
- Site supervisors
- Mobile patrol supervisors
- Security operations coordinators
- Corporate security specialists
- Loss prevention investigators
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I become a security guard without experience?
Yes, the industry welcomes newcomers. Training + licensing is all you need.
2. Do I need a driver’s license to work as a guard?
Not for all roles, but mobile patrol positions require one.
3. Can I take the training online?
Yes, most provinces approve online security guard training programs.
4. How hard is the security guard exam?
With proper training, most applicants pass easily.
5. Does the license need to be renewed?
Yes, most provinces require renewal every 1–2 years.
6. Can security guards work armed in Canada?
Armed security requires additional training and licensing and is not common in Canada.
Start Your Security Career Today
Becoming a licensed security guard is a fast, affordable, and rewarding way to enter one of Canada’s most stable industries.
If you’re ready to begin, the first step is completing approved training and applying for your license. And if you’re looking for work afterward, Alpine Protection Services hires trained, professional guards across Alberta.
