Things You Should Know Before Getting Your Security Guard License

Determining the right type of security guard license to kickstart a career in security can be complicated. However, it is an important decision that you have to make. Generally, your security guard license is your ticket to getting an excellent job in any security company in Toronto.

However, the license type and requirements differ based on the type of license you’re trying to obtain and where you live in Toronto. Our security guard license guide will put you through things you need to know before getting your license.

Getting your security guard license is typically the first step you should take before getting a security guard job in Toronto. In this article, we will show you everything you need to know about getting a security guard license.

Why you need a Security guard license

Different states use different terminology for their security guard licensing standards. Common terms include “registered,” “certified,” and “licensed.” Regardless of what term is used, all requirements and regulations are mandated individually on a state-by-state basis. This means you may be required to attain multiple licenses if you work across various states.

Requirements are generally broken down into two broad categories: professional fitness and training. The physical fitness requirements are typically evaluated before being hired, and training often happens afterward. Also, many companies have mandatory additional requirements based on industry standards, rather than state regulations.

For instance, some areas in Toronto have some of the most regulated security guard license training requirements in the country. As a security guard, you are expected to take training, classes, and stay in gold shape, mentally. Typically, 40 hours of classroom training, with at least 8 hours done before the first day on assignment, as well as annually thereafter. The remaining 32 hours must be done within six (6) months and typically includes a mixture of mandatory courses and elective classes.

Over the years, other states have slowly implemented similar regulations to the ones Toronto passes. In order to be prepared for the inevitable change, security companies are fulfilling stricter internal requirements before rules being adopted.

Every year, ASIS International compiles the most up-to-date security guard guidelines and standards. Not only is this beneficial for new security guards, but it is an excellent resource for security company owners and operators to keep up on laws and regulations in their state. The guide should be used to influence the company’s training policies and practices moving forward.

Tips for getting started

Becoming a professional security guard requires hard work and commitment. Here are just some of the duties that guards are expected to perform:

Secure premises and personnel by regularly patrolling the property
Monitor building entry points and allows or refuse access
Complete reports by accurately reporting observations, incidents, and surveillance activities.
Scout locations for threats
Protect individuals from direct threats

Also, it might feel like a daunting task to begin the process of becoming licensed security professional. If becoming a security guard seems like an exciting endeavour, here are some tips to keep in mind before getting licensed in this field.

Timeline

The average length of time to get licensed is roughly six(3) to four (4) weeks. Within these weeks, there are essential steps to take, and assuming there are no snags along the way, things should go fairly quickly once you get started.

The first step is to check whether you meet the requirements for an Ontario Security License. Once you can confirm you qualify, you must then register for and complete the appropriate training program — both in-person and online options are available. Our security guard license article will assist you in attaining the knowledge and prerequisites necessary for your security license.

When the course has been passed, and you have acquired a training completion number, you then register for and pass the security guard test. The final step is to apply for your Ontario Security License. This can be done online or through regular mail. Once you’ve obtained your license, you can then apply for jobs in any of the security guard companies in Toronto.

Cost

While some companies do charge a small fee for security training, others do it completely free of charge for those who qualify for the position. It is important to note that the complementary training does not cover the necessary first aid and CPR certifications that qualify you for the security license. These have to be completed on your own and are mandatory, so do not forget to schedule them

Furthermore, there are costs associated with the Ontario Security Guard Exam. After taxes, the total for the test is $75.15 — ($66.50 plus HST). If you need to retake the test for any reason, you must pay the fee again.

Job hunting is still required

It is essential to keep in mind that getting a security guard license does not guarantee a career with any security company in the industry. Many factors could influence a future in the field, such as the availability of positions, and whether you’ll be the right match for the team. To get the right job, you need to have the right work ethic and professionalism.

Though each company has its culture, providing top-quality service through your well-trained mind and work ethics is the best. If you can do this, you can easily get the security guard job of your dreams.

However, don’t get discouraged! If you are not the right fit for one team, it doesn’t mean that you won’t find a better-suited position elsewhere. Just know that a job won’t be handed to you following completion of the license. It’s up to you to take the initiative and make it happen.

You always need more training

As a security guard, you’ll need to be able to professionally and appropriately respond to a multitude of different scenarios. Because of this, you’ll find that the 40 hours of training mandated by the government is not sufficient. Beyond the necessary training, you need to have stellar communication skills, fire alarm response, medical emergency response, customer service, and more.

If you want a long and successful career in a security position, all these are things you should know by heart before getting your security guard license. Recognizing right away that your learning doesn’t stop at the initial course is the first step in becoming a well-rounded and fully certified licensed security professional. There is no such thing as enough training!

Eligibility and License

First and foremost, a valid security license is typically an essential requirement to work as certified security personnel in Canada. Depending on the province within which you live, to be eligible for a license, applicants must meet three requirements.

The requirements are;

You must be 18 years of age or older.
You must be allowed to work in the country.
You must have a clean criminal record

It’s Only the Start of Your Journey!

As you move forward from the early stages to actively becoming a licensed security professional, you’ll understand more about how this is only the first step on your journey. For some people, this may even be a step through the doorway to your career.

With good work, you can get promoted, earn more, work in more challenging locations, and even advance into positions of greater responsibility such as supervision and management. You may network and connect with people who open the door to a related field.

The skills you’ll need to be a good security guard

It may seem that “anyone” can take on a job in the security industry; however, that couldn’t be farther from the truth. There is a wide range of skills necessary to be successful in this field in the short-and long-term:

Communication Skills.

As is the case for most jobs, the need for immaculate communication is integral to this industry. It will be your role to follow the given protocol and communicate orders. All these become necessary when working with a large crowd or with the general public to ensure their safety.

Thinking on the spot.

In some incidents, the need for security guards to use common sense and quick thinking is imperative, before a situation gets out of control. You need to be able to think quickly on your feet.

Adaptability

Being a security guard is more than just patrolling your surroundings. You will need to be able to adapt to several different conditions and demands to successfully perform your job.

Always keep learning

With technology ever-changing, there is a need for security guards to be highly-trained and technology enthusiasts including familiarity with many devices and systems. Continuous professional training is almost a prerequisite for today’s security guards to meet industry requirements.

Conclusion

Being a security guard is an outstanding job, and you should take pride in it. You should strive to be the best security guard that you should be. However, ensure you understand the ethics of a security guard and the security guard companies in Toronto.

Luckily, some security companies in Toronto can help you get license approval after offering you a security job. However, you should always understand your role as a security guard. Here at Northern Force Security, we give you the best security guard training and can even help you with getting a license. Contact us today!

Things You Should Know Before Getting Your Security Guard License

Why you need a Security guard license