Quick answer: The Ontario security guard test is passable with preparation: roughly 60 multiple-choice questions in about 75 minutes, with 62% to pass and unlimited retakes (each with a fee). Complete the mandatory basic training first, then book the test and apply for your licence through ServiceOntario.
Key takeaways
- About 60 multiple-choice questions, ~75 minutes, 62% pass mark.
- You can retake the test, paying the fee each time.
- Eligibility: 18+, legally able to work in Ontario, clean record.
- Mandatory basic training comes before the test.
- Licence applications go through ServiceOntario.
To become a concierge, bouncer, or security guard in Ontario, you must pass Ontario security testing and have a valid security guard license. Licensed security guards have the duty to protect people and properties, whether public or private. After completing the recommended courses for security guards, they can work as private investigators (but you need a private investigator license), concierge, airport security officers, and other roles. A security guard can also work as a loss prevention employee.
Note that after completing security guard training in Canada, the candidates must pass the recommended Canada security guard test or Ontario security testing to acquire a security guard license. This security license card belongs to you, and you can always carry it from one job to another.
Who is eligible for Ontario security testing?
To be eligible for Ontario security testing, you must be 18 years or older, legally able to work within Ontario, have a clean criminal record (no criminal offenses committed), complete the basic training program, and pass the Ontario security guard test. Note that you can access the Ontario security guard practice exam to familiarize yourself with what you should expect during online test sessions or physical testing locations.
Keep in mind that people who have been convicted (not pardoned) of any of the over 80 criminal offenses highlighted in the Ontario regulations (Eligibility to Hold License – Criminal Record) cannot acquire a valid security guard license or renew even after testing completion.
How do I get a security license in Ontario?
Complete the basic security guard training: Choose a training entity that offers basic training courses for security guards. The course must cover all the requirements and be carefully designed to prepare you for the Ontario security testing. Consult with Ultimate Security Services to figure out the right security basic training program that best suits your requirements.
Pass the Ontario security guard test: This security guard basic test consists of at least 60 multiple choice questions, and candidates have about 75 minutes to complete it. The passing score is 62 percent. If you fail, you can take this test as many times as you need to pass. Remember, you must pay the test fee each time.
Apply for an Ontario security guard license: Upon training completion and undergoing testing for security guards, you can apply for your security license through ServiceOntario. Submit your security license application documents by mail or ServiceOntario account. Remember, license application documents may not be accepted at in-person counters.
Ultimate Security Services offers protection services
You can trust our teams of security experts who have passed Ontario security testing and have performed many security assessments while delivering positive results. You can rely on our security expertise in various areas such as event security, neighborhood watch, security technology, parking enforcement, mobile security, security guards, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is the Ontario security guard test?
Most candidates who complete the mandatory basic training pass: the test is about 60 multiple-choice questions in roughly 75 minutes with a 62% pass mark. Practice exams make the format familiar — and unlimited retakes (with a fee each time) remove the one-shot pressure.
Who is eligible to take Ontario security testing?
You must be 18 or older, legally entitled to work in Ontario, have a clean criminal record for the offences listed in the regulations, and complete the required basic training program before sitting the test.
How do I get a security licence in Ontario?
Three steps: complete basic security guard training with an approved provider, pass the provincial test, then apply for the licence through ServiceOntario with your documents. Processing is by mail or online account — VERIFY current processing times before publishing.
How many times can I retake the test?
As many times as you need — there is no attempt limit, but the test fee applies to every sitting. Review the areas you missed and use practice exams between attempts.
What jobs can I work with an Ontario security licence?
Licensed guards work as concierge and condo security, mobile patrol officers, event and retail security, loss prevention and more. Private investigation requires its own licence class. Ultimate Security Services hires licensed guards across the GTA — see our careers page.
Does USS help new guards get started?
USS consults on choosing the right basic training program and hires licensed guards for sites across Toronto and the GTA. Check current openings on the USS careers page or call (416) 399-1550.
Licensed and job-hunting? See USS openings on the careers page.
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