What Is a Licensed Security Guard in Ontario?
In Ontario, a licensed security guard is someone who has met all legal and regulatory requirements outlined in the Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA). These professionals are legally authorized to work in various roles such as mall security, mobile patrol, loss prevention, and event security.
To become licensed, an individual must:
- Complete a Ministry-Approved 40-Hour Training Program: This includes both in-class and online options covering key topics like legal authorities, use of force theory, emergency response, and report writing.
- Pass the Ministry Exam: The test, administered by the Ministry of the Solicitor General, evaluates understanding of core concepts taught during the training.
- Apply Through ServiceOntario: Once training and testing are complete, individuals must apply for a licence through ServiceOntario, which includes submitting a recent police background check.
- Carry a Valid Licence While on Duty: As required by law, licensed guards must visibly display their licence while working. This ensures transparency and accountability.
Licensed guards are not only compliant with Ontario laws—they are trained, vetted, and recognized by the province as qualified to provide professional security services.
What Is an Unlicensed Security Guard?
An unlicensed security guard in Ontario is an individual performing security-related duties without holding a valid licence issued by the Ministry of the Solicitor General. This means they have not completed the legal requirements outlined under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005 (PSISA).
Key characteristics of an unlicensed guard include:
- Lack of Ministry-Issued Licence: They are not registered with ServiceOntario and do not carry the official security guard licence required to work legally.
- Incomplete or No Training: Many unlicensed individuals have not completed the mandatory 40-hour security training program or written the provincial licensing exam.
- No Background Screening: These individuals may not have undergone a proper criminal record check, which is a mandatory part of the licensing process.
Working as an unlicensed security guard is illegal in Ontario. Under the PSISA:
- Workers can face fines of up to $25,000 and/or up to one year of imprisonment.
- Employers who knowingly hire unlicensed guards can face fines up to $250,000 and additional penalties, including imprisonment for corporate officers.
Key Differences at a Glance
Understanding the clear distinction between licensed and unlicensed security guards in Ontario is essential for both employers and the public. Below is a comparison chart outlining the key features that set them apart:
| Feature | Licensed Guard | Unlicensed Guard |
| Legality | ✅ Legal — Fully authorized under Ontario law | ❌ Illegal — Violates the PSISA regulations |
| Training | ✅ Completed 40-hour mandatory training | ❌ Often untrained or partially trained |
| Background Check | ✅ Must pass a criminal background check | ❌ Typically no formal screening completed |
| Identification | ✅ Must carry and display licence ID while on duty | ❌ No valid ID or Ministry-issued credentials |
| Accountability | ✅ Regulated by the Ministry of the Solicitor General | ❌ No regulatory oversight or legal protection |
Risks of Hiring or Working as an Unlicensed Security Guard
Operating without a security guard licence in Ontario carries serious legal and financial consequences for both the individual and the employer. The Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA) strictly prohibits unlicensed security work, and violations are treated severely.
�� Legal Consequences
- For Individuals: Working without a licence can lead to fines of up to $25,000 and/or up to one year in jail.
- For Employers: Hiring unlicensed guards can result in corporate fines up to $250,000, possible business shutdowns, and criminal prosecution for directors or managers.
⚠️ Liability Issues for Employers
If an incident occurs involving an unlicensed guard—such as property damage, injury, or excessive use of force—employers may be held fully liable. Without Ministry oversight, there’s no assurance the individual is trained or vetted, putting the organization at risk of lawsuits and insurance claim denials.
�� Public Safety Concerns
Unlicensed guards often lack proper training in conflict de-escalation, legal authority, and emergency response. This can lead to poor judgement in high-risk situations and serious harm to the public or property.
�� Reputational Damage
When businesses are caught employing unlicensed guards, it can damage their brand, trustworthiness, and public image. Clients, partners, and the community may question the company’s commitment to safety and legal compliance.
�� No Professional Protections
Unlicensed guards are not covered under professional liability insurance and do not receive protections afforded to licensed professionals. They may also lack access to legal support, workplace protections, or union representation.
How to Verify a Security Guard’s Licence in Ontario
Whether you’re an employer looking to hire or a client seeking peace of mind, verifying a security guard’s licence is a crucial step in ensuring legal compliance and public safety in Ontario.
✅ Use the ServiceOntario Online Registry
The Ontario government provides a free and accessible online registry through ServiceOntario. This tool allows anyone to search by the guard’s name or licence number to confirm:
- Licence status (active, expired, suspended, etc.)
- Licence class (e.g., Security Guard, Private Investigator, or dual licence)
- Conditions or restrictions, if applicable
This database is updated regularly and is the official method of confirming whether a guard is legally permitted to work.
�� What to Look For
When verifying a security guard’s credentials, ensure the following:
- The licence is active and not expired
- The class of licence matches the job role (e.g., Security Guard, not Private Investigator only)
- The name on the licence matches government-issued ID
�� Employers’ Due Diligence Responsibilities
Under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA), employers are legally obligated to:
- Verify the licence of every individual hired for security roles
- Maintain records of licence checks for compliance inspections
- Ensure all employees display their licences while on duty
Failing to perform due diligence can expose employers to legal penalties, licence suspensions, or business sanctions from the Ministry of the Solicitor General.