How to Become a Professional Security Guard

The security industry is filled with job openings on any given day, from entry-level security roles to supervisory and management levels. There are lots of different roles in security, each necessitating a particular skill set. Mobile patrols need attention to detail, whereas door supervisors need strong communication skills. Those working in event security often rely on teamwork and working within an assign-delegate structure.

Being a security guard is a rewarding career. However, working in security is not something just anyone can jump into. To fulfill this role, you must meet the necessary qualifications to obtain your security guard license and be eligible for this position. 

Here is everything you need to know about how to become a security guard.

Are You Physically Capable?

Beyond the mental skills you need to become a security guard, there are also the job’s physical requirements. Some roles in security are less physical than others. However, most involve security guards having to be on their feet and ready to act physically at a moment’s notice. 

If there are physical limitations holding you back, it doesn’t wholly rule out a career in security. It’s something to consider though, as the physicality relates to your long-term goals.

Prerequisites to Obtain a Security License

You need a security guard license to work various security jobs. Every province does this a little differently. For the most part, one must be 18 years of age and eligible to work in Canada. Next, they require a clean criminal record. They must pass a government-regulated Security Guard Test. Lastly, one must familiarize themselves with the Security Guard Code of Conduct.

If you have been convicted of a crime, misdemeanor, or transgression, you will not be able to become a security guard. If you have been declared guilty of a criminal offence and were exonerated, however, you are allowed to apply to become a security guard. The criminal background check targets specific crimes relating to fraud, arson, intimidation, possession, forgery, theft, kidnapping, hostage-taking, sexual assault, aggravated assault, criminal harassment, and more.

Security Training with First Aid And CPR

Security personnel are expected to have the necessary training to handle a myriad of high-pressure situations. In the process of obtaining one’s security license, an applicant is generally required to undergo a minimum of 40 hours of security training alongside gaining certificates, including First Aid and CPR. This must all be government-approved security officer training through an agency that is legally eligible to sign off on your hours.

Pass the Security Guard Test

To obtain your license, after completing the needed 40 hours in security training, you must pass the Security Guard Test. There is a cost to this test and studying for it is strongly advised. This test confirms that you have the ability to act responsibly in the role of security and helps prepare yourself for the challenges that can come with this role. You will receive the results of your test within five business days of appearing at the examination.

The security guard test consists of 60 multiple choices questions. An applicant has 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete these. The test is ultimately either graded on a ‘pass’ or ‘fail’. To pass, a minimum score of 62% must be achieved. If you do not meet this minimum, you may retake the Security Guard Test. There is no limit on how many times you can take the test. However, every time you will be charged the required test fee.

Wait for Your License

There is no guarantee that you will be approved for a Security Guard License. However, if all relevant steps have been completed, the chances are fairly strong that you will. Please note, it can take up to 30 days to process an application for a Security Guard License. You send an application either by mail or online. If you do apply online, which is the more advantageous choice, you can check the status of your application in real-time. 

Apply for a Security Job

Once you have your license, the last step to take is to apply for jobs. There are many security openings out there. It is a category of employment that is almost always looking for responsible personnel. If you are dedicated to being the best security guard, you can continue the continuous training, professional development, and advancement opportunities to come.

Being a security guard, the more skills you have, the stronger your resume is. Many choose to engage in professional development courses after they start on the job. Being a security job requires you to be skilled in de-escalation. You should also learn how to use physical force to eliminate threats and operate a range of advanced systems and technology. If you want to be a security guard and aren’t already tech-savvy, it may be time to upgrade that knowledge.