Working as a security guard can be a highly fulfilling and exciting career choice. Whether you're working in healthcare, commercial buildings, post-secondary institutions, aviation, industrial, or any setting, you'll have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of others and make the world a safer and friendlier place.
But that's not all - working as a security guard can also be a rewarding career in terms of personal growth and development. It can provide you with invaluable skills, experience, and specialized training. You'll learn how to communicate effectively, de-escalate situations, develop strong problem-solving skills, and more. These skills are transferable to many other industries and can help you advance your career in the future.
If you're considering becoming a security guard, you'll need to meet certain requirements and complete specific training. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to become a security guard in Canada.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
Before you can become a security guard in Canada, you must meet the basic requirements. You must be at least 18 years old, have a clean criminal record, and be legally eligible to work in Canada. Typically, a high-school diploma is required to obtain an entry-level job as a security guard.
Step 2: Complete the Required Training
In Canada, security guards must complete specific training to become licensed. The training program you need to complete may vary depending on your location and the type of security work you plan to do. A certain number of hours of ‘Basic Security Training (BST)’ is usually required.
You can find a list of approved training programs on the website of the provincial or territorial government where you plan to work:
- British Columbia
- Alberta
- Saskatchewan
- Manitoba
- Ontario
- Quebec
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- Prince Edward Island
- New Brunswick
Step 3: Obtain a Security Guard License
Once you've completed your training and passed any necessary tests, you'll need to obtain a security guard license from the appropriate government agency. The agency that issues licenses may vary depending on your location (reference links above).
You'll need to provide proof of completing the required training, pass a background check, and pay a fee to obtain your license. Once you have your license, you'll be able to legally work as a security guard in Canada.
Security Guard Fees:
The cost of becoming a security guard could vary depending on your province. The total cost is essentially divided into the following:
- Basic Security Training (BST) - $160 - $300 plus tax
- Test Booking - $75-$80 plus tax (depending on the province)
- Security Licence application - the fee could range from $75-$85 tax included (depending on the province).
- Uniform and equipment - Uniforms and equipment (e.g. duty belt, flashlight, boots etc.) could cost another $150-$200. Every site has unique requirements in terms of equipment. Some sites are more demanding than others.
Paladin Security offers company-paid training. We help prepare our staff for provincial tests, and in some provinces, we reimburse the licencing cost after probation. Additionally, all necessary uniforms are supplied to our officers free of charge.
Step 4: Find a Job
Now that you have your license, it's time to job hunt! The physical copy of your security guard license may take a while before you receive it, so make sure you get a digital copy as soon as possible so that you can start applying for jobs.
When applying for jobs, make sure to highlight your training and any relevant experience you have. Being a security guard can be a demanding job, so employers will want to know that you're capable of handling the responsibilities.
Here is a free downloadable guide on how to write the ideal security guard resume and how to prepare for a security guard interview.
Step 5: Maintain Your License
To maintain your license, you'll need to renew it periodically. The renewal requirements may vary depending on your location (reference step 2 links), but you'll typically need to complete ongoing training and pay a renewal fee. Remember to stay up-to-date with the latest training requirements and maintain your license to ensure your success in this field.
Set Yourself Up for Success
If you're looking for a career that allows you to make a real difference in your community while also providing personal growth and development, consider becoming a security guard. It could be the start of an exciting and fulfilling career.
Join a booming industry! With ten years as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies, a place in the Hall of Fame of Canada's Most Admired Corporate Cultures, being named Best Employer by Forbes Magazine for three years in a row, and winning the OSPA’s Outstanding Contract Security Company Award, Paladin is one of the fastest-growing companies across Canada.
If you are ready to jumpstart your career in security, check out our careers page.
Be sure to listen to The Difference Makers podcast and read our blog to learn more about Paladin and the exciting world of security.
Hi sir
I am Gautam former soldier of Indian army from last 6 years been working for British Maritime security company living in india could you please update me how can i get security guard license from Canada as i am a Indian Citizen.
Looking forward to hear you.
Kind regards
Gautam
Hello, thank you for reading our article! We only employee individuals who are eligible to work in Canada. Once you have the proper documents to work in Canada, you can apply to Paladin Security under the “Career” section of our website: https://www.paladinsecurity.com/careers
My favorite part about this article was when you explained that some agencies can help you gain training to be an abasic security officer for about $200. My sister told me that her husband has been talking about changing careers, and how he would like to have a security job in the area. This would allow him to see his family more often, so I think he should start looking for options and certifications.
Hi Faylinn, thank you for sharing. We are happy to hear this article was helpful for you. If your sister’s husband is interested in applying to Paladin Security, he can locate job openings here: https://www.paladinsecurity.com/careers
My brother has been wanting to be a security guard. Therefore, we’ve been looking for a security guard training program that can help him make this happen. Aside from this, we’ll also make sure that my brother will apply and prepare for the test.
I saw that Paladin has the BSOT training course. I would like to sign up for it. But where do I get the link from it?
Hi Justin, we provide our BSOT training course to Paladin Security Officers. If you are interested in a career with Paladin, you can find open positions on the Career section of our website: https://www.paladinsecurity.com/careers
Good day;
I have been trying to join Paladin security; however, I can’t seem to find the proper links/application forms to fill. I’m not sure who to contact for that either. Neither can I register for an account at the portal. Please help!
Regards
Hello! To apply for a job, please visit: http://www.paladinsecurity/careers. When you locate a position that interests you, you can apply by clicking on “Apply Now”. You will then need to provide your email address in order to create a profile. Thank you.
Would I be required to have my security license (In this case for Ontario) before applying for a job, or is the licensing something which is part of Paladin’s training? For the former, would I be reimbursed for licensing fees if I were to be hired?
Hi Thane, it will depend on the job you are applying for. Some positions will require you to already have your license, whereas others do not, and then we would help you acquire it. To answer your last question, yes, we do cover the cost of the licensing fee.
Hi, I am international student in Toronto.I want to start my career in security.Can I join paladin as a student.
thanks.
Hello, yes you can apply to Paladin Security if you are a university/college student. You can locate part-time or casual positions on our “Careers” page: https://www.paladinsecurity.com/careers
Hello, if I wanted to become a security guard at Paladin, do I have to have my license first? Or do I join Paladin and they will help me prepare for the test to acquire my license? I just wanted to be completely sure. Can I enter Paladin and then start training? Will that training be provided by Paladin? What would I have to pay for, just to be sure!
Hi Suruthika, those are all great questions! Some of our positions require you to have already obtained your security guard license. However, if a position does not require you to have one, this means we will help you obtain your license, as well as pay for it. We also provide security guard training, which we cover the full expense of.
Hi, I am Geeta and interested in getting Security License but dont know how to proceed. I am living in Brampton, Ontario. Please guide me for online licensing.
Hi Geeta, you can contact the Ministry to inquire about a security licence in Ontario: https://www.mcscs.jus.gov.on.ca/english/PSIS/ContactUs/PSIS_contact.html
Hello i just retired few weeks ago from a full time job as a welder.I now realized that i am bored at home and need to work.I was thinking about getting a security job but my concern is “does security guard companies hire retirees.”I am physically fit and in great health i am also 66 years of age.
Hi Abdool, yes you absolutely can work in security if you have recently retired! The security industry can be the perfect place to look for that part-time job that has the hours and flexibility to suit you and your life situation. You can learn more about our open positions here: https://paladinsecurity.com/careers/
Hello sir, I’ve been checking Paladin Security these days and i’m really interested in joining. But I don’t live in Canada. I live in Algeria. I’m healthy and young (22 years old) and with a university diploma. I saw that you have training courses but am I eligible to them to be able to get a licence from you? I want to know if i have a chance to join you or should i look for something else.
Thank you, Imad.
Hi Imad, thank you for your comment. Unfortunately, we do not provide training courses or security licenses to non-employees of Paladin Security. In order to apply to Paladin Security, you must live in Canada and be able to work in Canada. We appreciate your interest!
It was really helpful when you said that you need a high school diploma. My brother was telling me last night about how he ants to look into becoming a security guard, and he was wondering if he had everything that he needed. I’ll make sure to pass this information along to him so that he can know what’s required to becoming a security guard!
Hi my name is Heena Thukral, I applied in Health care as casual, and according to the advertisement Paladin Security was going to help me to get the proper training along with BSOT, but somehow I was dropped from the list without any proper explanation. I got the email that list is narrow down to other candidates. But I really want to join Paladin Security so I re-applied for the different job but with the same condition that paladin will help me to get Security Licence. Could you please help me with it? Thank you.
Regards,
Heena Thukral
Hi Heena, thank you for your interest in Paladin Security! If you have no prior experience, we encourage you read our Security Guard Resume blog: https://paladinsecurity.com/security-careers/security-guard-resume/. Please also ensure you are applying to positions that are in the city you live in, in order to be considered for the job.
Hi,
I am trying to become a security guard with Paladin, how can I get the license?
Hi Mohammed, for many of our entry-level positions, Paladin Security will help you acquire your security license and even pay for it.
hii i had applied to work with paladin security about 6 months ago i got a call for interview as well but i do not have a security license. i am really willing to work as a security guard. can you let me know how can i get a security license or work in security.
Hi Gurpreet, depending on the position you apply for, Paladin Security actually helps new candidates acquire their security license as well as pay for it.
Hello, i am wondering if an adult grad certificate would be the same as a HS diploma, also i am joining the army reserves and i am also wondering if that will affect anything
Hi Justice, we recommend you contacting your local police department to confirm this information! Thank you.
Hi…. So if i want to get licensed through paladin…who do i contact and what are the options for that?…I reside in ontario and eligible to work in canada
Hello! You can apply to open positions on our website: https://www.paladinsecurity.com/careers – We provide company-paid training and also assist and pay for our employees to receive their security license.
Your article is quite helpful! I have so many questions, and you have answered many. Thank you! Such a nice and superb article, we have been looking for this information about how to become a security guard. Great post…
Hi I am wondering if you can recommend a school that’s open for training currently in Kelowna.
Also what you pay hourly for new hires.
Hi Riley, if you are interested in becoming a security officer with Paladin Security, then you will receive company-paid training from us once you are hired. The hourly rate for new hires will depend on the site they are positioned at, and can be anywhere from $14.60-$17.
Hello my name is SeongJun Huh
I have handed in application for career in vancouver
( hospital/casualpool) via online
When would I expect to hear from the company?
Hello SeongJun, the hiring process can take a few weeks so it is best to be patient during this time. Please note that we only contact successful applicants. Thank you!
Hi Sir, I wish to obtain a security service’s certificate to join your esteem organisation.
Please let me know how can apply for course.
Thanka ®ards
Ashok Ralhan
Hi Ashok, if you are interested in becoming a Security Officer with Paladin Security, you can apply for a position on the Career section of our website: https://www.paladinsecurity.com/careers
Hello my name is Rohan i am living in halifax and lookinf for the job, As i have good physique and very attentive. I have worked and McDonald’s, Ups security, construction sites etc.
Hi Rohan, thank you for your interest. You can apply for a position on our website: https://www.paladinsecurity.com/careers
hello sir how can i apply for the course for security guard thank you
Hi Patrick, are you referring to getting your security licence? If so, you can read our other blog: https://paladinsecurity.com/security-careers/how-to-get-security-guard-licence/
I want to get security license with your help. Please help me
Hi Jaspreet, we help our new employees acquire their security licence and we also cover the cost of it! You can apply for a position by visiting our Career page: https://www.paladinsecurity.com/careers
Hello Sir,good day to you,
Im Supun from srilanka.me and my family will be planning to be landing in Canada Ontario in Mid of January, I really want to know weather without any High school qualification can a candidate apply for this position have 13 years of working experience in Sales & marketing back home,
thank you
Hi Supan, the qualifications vary depending on the position you apply for. You can check the “Job Qualification” section on each job post to confirm whether this is a requirement or not. Thank you!
Hello I want to be a security guard how can I get license
Hi Ahmad, great question! Please read our How to Get a Security Guard Licence blog here: https://paladinsecurity.com/security-careers/how-to-get-security-guard-licence/
Hi sir….. i have applied for paladin security guard job. i received an email from them regarding my availability and contact information. so now will they call me for interview or not?
Thank you!!
Hi Harmeet, once you provide them with your availability and contact information they will inform you of the next steps. Thank you!
Hi have applied for paladin security guard but until now i did not recieve any reply…
Thank you
Hi Tennyson, the hiring process can take a few weeks, so it is best to be patient during this time. Please note that we only contact successful applicants as well. Thank you!
As a person working at a security company, I am glad there are many people interested to be in this field of work too. More power guys.
Irresistible! Thank you so much for this kind and good service.your services is better than better.
Useful post! I really need this type of article.. this is very useful for me.