Can I Get An Ontario Security Guard License With A Criminal Record?

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How to get your Ontario Security Guard License with a Criminal Record

Do I have to inform the Ministry about my criminal record on my security license application?

Security Guard License With A Criminal Record

Yes. It’s best to be honest on the application because they will find out. A background check is a part of the Security Guard License application process.

Can I get a Security Guard License with a Criminal Record?

The answer is it depends. Though the Ministry of the Solicitor General’s guidelines clearly states to apply for a security guard license you must have a clean criminal record, you may wonder what that includes. If you’ve committed a crime in the past and your record has been wiped clean then you may still be eligible. It depends on the nature of the offence committed and whether or not you pass the background check that the ministry will perform as part of the Security Guard License application process. To find out if your criminal record will prevent you from becoming a security guard read on.

What criminal offences will prevent me from obtaining my security guard license?

Regulations set out by the  Ministry of the Solicitor General, and the Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005 list the criminal acts which will prevent you from obtaining your security guard license with a criminal record. There are over 80 different offences that prevent you from getting a license unless you receive a pardon. These are referred to as prescribed offences and the complete list can be found on the Ontario Ministry site.

Some of the prescribed criminal offences that will prevent you from becoming a security guard include:

  • Fraud over $5000
  • Theft over $5000
  • Assault with a weapon
  • Passport Forgery
  • Arson
  • Involvement with a Criminal Organization
  • Drug Trafficking
  • Murder

How do I clear my criminal record?

To clear your criminal record and become eligible for a security license you must receive a pardon. Click here for information on how to receive a pardon, and if your offence is eligible or contact Parole Canada.  

There is also a Canadian non-profit organization that has been operating for more than 30 years assisting people with pardons and US entry waivers. You can get more information from their website, located here.

Are there any offences which are not eligible for A record suspension or a pardon?

Under no circumstances are you eligible for a record suspension if you committed:

  • A Schedule 1 Offence (offence involving a child) under the Criminal Records Act
  • More than three (3) offences that were prosecuted by indictment, each with a prison sentence of two (2) years or more.

How often do I need a criminal record check once I obtain my security guard license?

According to the Ministry of Solicitor General, a criminal record check will be performed when you apply for a new license and every time you renew your license after that. 

What if I was convicted of an offence after I applied for a security guard license?

If you are convicted of a prescribed offence (see above) you must update your criminal record information online or complete a Change of Information form within 5 days of the conviction. Unless you receive a pardon or record suspension, your license will be revoked until your record is cleared, at which time you can reapply. 

Once I get my security license, under what circumstances can my security license be revoked?

As outlined by the Ministry, the Registrar can suspend or revoke a license due to:

Can I become a security guard if I have a DUI?

Having a DUI is not listed as one of the offences that will prevent you from getting your license. As long as you pass the background check and fulfil the other requirements (taking a ministry-approved security guard course, passing the Ontario security guard license exam) and are approved for your Ontario security guard license you can work in the security field.

In conclusion – it is possible to get an Ontario security guard license with a criminal record.

If you are eligible to get your security guard license don’t forget to sign up for your security guard training course today!

Last Updated on Apr 25, 2023

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