Comparing Security Guard Services in Ontario: Licensed vs. Unlicensed

In Ontario, all individuals working as security guards must be licensed under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA). This legislation sets the minimum requirements and guidelines to ensure public safety and professional standards.

• Regulated under the PSISA – All security professionals must comply with Ontario’s licensing laws, which are overseen by the Ministry of the Solicitor General.
• Training and testing – Every licensed guard is required to complete a 40-hour approved training course and pass a provincial exam.
• Background checks – Criminal background checks are mandatory before a licence can be issued.
• Accountability – Licensing ensures that guards operate within defined legal boundaries and professional codes of conduct.
• Legal requirement for paid work – It is illegal to perform paid security guard duties in Ontario without a valid licence.

Hiring a licensed security guard ensures that your premises or event are protected by a trained and regulated professional who understands their legal limits and obligations.

What Is a Licensed Security Guard in Ontario?

A licensed security guard in Ontario is an individual who has met the legal requirements set out by the province to work in the private security industry. Licensing ensures that guards are properly trained, vetted, and authorized to perform security duties in a lawful and professional manner.

To become licensed, a person must:

• Complete a 40-hour ministry-approved training course – This includes both classroom and online instruction covering topics such as the use of force, legal authorities, emergency response, and report writing.
• Pass the provincial licensing exam – The multiple-choice test evaluates the applicant’s understanding of laws, procedures, and ethical responsibilities related to security work.
• Obtain a valid licence from the Ministry of the Solicitor General – Once training and testing are complete, the individual must apply for a licence through ServiceOntario and pass a mandatory background check.
• Maintain the legal right to work – Only with this licence can an individual be legally employed as a security guard in Ontario. The licence must be renewed every two years and carried or displayed while on duty.

Risks of Hiring Unlicensed Security Guards

Hiring unlicensed security guards in Ontario may seem like a cost-saving measure, but it exposes businesses and property owners to significant legal and practical risks. Unlicensed personnel are not held to provincial standards, making them a liability rather than an asset.

Here are some of the key dangers:

• Violates Ontario law – Under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA), it is illegal to employ or operate as a security guard without a valid licence. Businesses caught hiring unlicensed guards may face regulatory penalties, including substantial fines or even suspension of operations.
• Lack of training and professionalism – Unlicensed guards are not required to undergo the mandatory 40-hour training or pass the provincial exam, which means they may lack critical skills in conflict resolution, emergency response, and legal procedures.
• Higher liability risk – If an incident results in injury, theft, or property damage while an unlicensed guard is on duty, your insurance coverage could be void. This increases the potential for lawsuits and out-of-pocket expenses.
• No accountability for misconduct – Licensed guards are subject to oversight and disciplinary action by the Ministry of the Solicitor General. With unlicensed personnel, there is no formal complaints process or enforcement mechanism if they fail to act appropriately or behave unethically.

Comparing Key Differences: Licensed vs. Unlicensed

When hiring a security guard in Ontario, understanding the difference between licensed and unlicensed personnel is crucial. Below is a side-by-side comparison to help property owners, event planners, and business operators make informed decisions:

This comparison illustrates why Ontario law mandates licensing: it protects not only the public but also employers from liability, reputational damage, and compliance issues. Hiring a licensed guard is always the safer and smarter choice.

Anil writes on Health, Wellness and Lifestyle