Ontario guide
How to Apply for an Ontario Security Guard Licence
A practical application checklist for Ontario security guard licence candidates.
Last reviewed: by Ontario editorial team.
Quick answer
Apply for an Ontario security guard licence only after you have completed the required training and test and have the testing completion number, record check, photo, identification, Ontario mailing address, and payment ready. A complete, internally consistent application is the best way to avoid a preventable return.
Documents and information required
Ontario’s current individual application page identifies these core items:
- Ontario testing completion number, unless an accepted out-of-province path applies;
- Ontario mailing address;
- a valid Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check in its official format;
- a photo that meets the stated dimensions, recency, background, and file requirements;
- two different, valid government-issued identification documents; and
- the licence fee.
One piece of ID must prove identity, including the required name, photo, signature, and birth-date information. The second must prove entitlement to work in Canada. The same document cannot be submitted for both roles. Read the current acceptable-document lists because a document that seems official may not satisfy the specific category.
Match names before submitting
The name on both identity documents should match the application and record check. If a name has changed, include the government-issued document Ontario requests for that type of change. Do not edit a PDF, photo, or record-check file to make the names appear consistent. Resolve the underlying document issue.
Online application
Online applicants need an Ontario.ca Login. The Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check must be received as an original, unaltered digital PDF for online submission. Scanning a paper record check or printing and rescanning the digital PDF may not meet that requirement.
Ontario states that a correctly completed online application can take up to 15 calendar days to process and approve. Once approved, the digital licence is sent by email and is also available through the Ontario.ca account. No physical card is issued.
Mail application
Mail applicants complete the current form, include the supporting materials, and use an accepted mail payment method. Ontario lists bank draft, money order, or certified cheque payable to the Minister of Finance. Cash, personal cheques, and credit cards are not accepted by mail. A correctly completed mail application can take up to 30 calendar days.
Use the current address from the official application page rather than copying an address from an old article. Keep a complete copy of the package and use a delivery method appropriate for important documents.
Returned applications
If Ontario returns an application for missing or incorrect information, respond within the stated time. The current page gives 90 calendar days; otherwise the application can be closed and the payment retained as a processing fee. A resubmitted online application may again take up to 15 calendar days.
After approval
Carry a digital or printed copy of the licence while working and be prepared to show it on request. The first expiry date is tied to the second birthday after issue, so it may be less than two full years. Add the date to a calendar and review renewal requirements well before the 90-day renewal window.
Open the Ontario application checklist
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