There are stiff penalties for working without your Ontario security guard license. That’s why it’s important to keep it close at hand while you’re working and be aware of its expiration date. However, accidents happen, and the paper copy might get lost or stolen. In addition to getting lost, your license is no longer valid if your legal name changes, address changes, or if it expires. As a security professional, it’s your responsibility to show up to work every day with a valid license able to work. If you’ve lost your Ontario security guard license, here’s what to do.
When you’re working as a private security officer, any member of the public has the right to ask to see your license. It’s best if you carry it in a case where the front is visible, including your license number, name, and photo. Security guards aren’t obligated to show anyone the back of the license or allow them to hold it.
In some circumstances, security personnel isn’t required to carry a license, such as those working in film and television or security personnel licensed from another jurisdiction.
Ontario security guard licenses expire two birthdays after the date issued. If you get your license on June 1st of 2021, and your birthday is October 5th, it will expire on October 5th, 2022. The holder’s responsibility is to renew their license before the expiration date to prevent it from lapsing.
Valid licenses are essential for ensuring the quality of service from Ontario security officers, regardless of the industries where they work. Restoring a lapsed license takes more time, which is why it’s so critical to stay on top of the expiration date of your current license and renew at the correct time.
The fastest way of applying for, renewing, or replacing a lost Ontario security guard license is online through the ServiceOntario website. It’s possible to renew through the mail, but it’s faster online.
As long as you have your ONe-key ID, you can access Ontario’s online government services to keep your license in good standing. It’s advisable to replace your license when it becomes damaged, in addition to if it’s lost or stolen.
When you first apply for your Ontario security guard license, and when replacing a lost one, you’ll receive a digital copy by email before the physical copy arrives in the mail. You can use your digital copy to work, as it functions the same way as your permanent copy. It contains your license number, name, and photo, to assure members of the public that you’re authorized as a private security officer.
However, if your license passes its expiration date and lapses, you cannot work legally. This is why it’s so important to submit timely renewals through ServiceOntario.
Cancom Global Security provides dual services in Ontario. We train security professionals to pass their license exam and start the first day of work confidently. Our team also offers a range of private security services across Ontario, plus comprehensive training for future professionals.
We’re experts in personal security, working with our students to prepare them for fulfilling careers. Even if you’ve recently lost your Ontario security guard license, we can help with renewals and replacement.
If you have questions about your security guard license status or how to expedite your renewal process, reach out to our Toronto security guard training team.
