If you want to work a security position in Ontario and you do not currently have a security license you will be required to take a General Standards Board approved Basic Security Guard course before you can apply for a license. Be vigilant for unauthorized courses intended to be a money grab. The course currently is running between $400 to $1000 to take. The course is 40 hours of in class lessons that cover a impressive amount of information meant to give you the general knowledge base of skills required to perform security related functions. NOTE: Law and Security programs at most colleges do not count as a Basic Security Guard Course.
Once you take the in class course you have to write a exam through drive test. For more information visit www.ontariosecuritytesting.com If you pass this exam you can now apply for a Security Guard License. The exam is $60 per write (Note Private Investigators must complete a 50 hour course and go through the same procedures) (Note dual license holders (security guard and private investigator) must complete BOTH training courses and BOTH Exams)
Once you pass the exam you go to the ministry of community safety and correctional services website. Go under the private investigator and security guard section. Print out the form and complete it. The fee is 80$ and you must renew the license annually.
This is not meant to discourage but to educate, a new person to the system that is not being assisted by a corporate company or union may have to pay as much as 500$ or more to get a license that does not guarantee you a job and may not guarantee you a job above minimum wage.
Once you recieve your license in the mail this is your license that allows you to contract yourself out to companies or private individuals (provided you follow ministry guidelines) to provide security services for them. I will not get to much into the laws pertaining to security as you should know them if you get a license.
This is where it gets tricky. A brand new person to the system should aquire, standard first aid, WHIMIS certificate and smart serve. Again this costs money but these are your basic qualifications you will need to work at most sites as a security officer. Some part time positions may take a S/O without these qualifications. I would recommend if you are financially secure taking a law and security administration program to furhter your overall knowledge for security and the legal system.
Other qualifications would include taking the Certified protection officer program that is recognized as a professional certification program among the security industry. Get your G license and your PAL (restricted and unrestricted) license for armoured car positions. You can enroll in a handcuffing and baton training course. Certificates in fire safety, defensive driving, etc can all add to your appeal to be hired onto a job and may affect wages, position and sites you will recieve.
I started out from ground zero and I am still educating myself so I can be more professional.