Ontario Security License Renewal: Complete Guide for Security Guards & Private Investigators
- By - 247 Gard®
Thinking about renewing your Ontario security license? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re a security guard or a private investigator, renewing your licence in Ontario doesn’t have to be confusing — once you know exactly what to do and when to do it.
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Your licence gives you the legal right to work in Ontario’s security or investigation field. Let’s walk through the Ontario security license renewal process step by step, covering documents, timelines, fees, the online portal, and tips to stay compliant.
What You Need to Know First
You can start renewing your security guard licence or private investigator licence in Ontario up to 90 days before it expires. Waiting too long or missing the expiry date means you cannot legally work until your renewal is approved.
You need a ServiceOntario security license portal account (a “My Ontario Account”) to submit your application online. Most people find this faster and easier than mailing their documents.
Step‑by‑Step: How to Renew Your Licence
1. Check Your Expiry and Get Ready Early
Check the date your licence expires. Mark it and set a reminder 60–90 days before. Starting early avoids last-minute stress.
2. Gather the Right Documents
For Ontario security license renewal, you’ll need:
Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) issued within six months of submission. Upload this yourself via the portal.
Passport-style photo, if one isn’t already on file.
Clear scans or photos of two valid government-issued IDs (front and back).
Having these ready before logging in speeds up the process.
3. Log In and Submit Online
Go to the ServiceOntario security license portal and log in with your My Ontario account. If you don’t have one, creating it is free.
Inside the portal:
Enter your licence number and update personal details.
Upload your CRJMC, photo, and ID files.
Pay the renewal fee ($80) using debit or credit online.
Submitting online typically gets processed faster than mail.
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4. Pay the Fee and Wait
The security license renewal fee in Ontario is $80 for either a security guard or private investigator licence. Dual licence holders pay slightly more.
Processing can take up to 30 days, though many applicants receive approval faster if all documents are correct.
5. Download Your Digital Licence
Once approved, you’ll receive a digital licence via email. Save it on your phone or print it — it’s valid until the physical card arrives. Keep access to your account in case it’s requested at work.
Online or Mail? Your Choice
Online submission via the ServiceOntario portal is most common. You may still mail your application to ServiceOntario’s PSIS Licensing Office in Kingston, but processing takes longer and missing documents can delay approval.
Ontario Security License Renewal Timeline
Typical timelines:
Prepare documents: a few days to a couple of weeks
Online application processing: up to 30 days
Licence email (digital copy): as soon as approved
Tip: Start 60–90 days in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline
If your licence expires before renewal, you cannot legally work until you have a valid licence. This can result in lost shifts and income. Mark your renewal date well in advance to stay compliant.
Bonus Tips for Ontario Security License Renewal
Update personal info early (name changes, address, contact info).
Keep your ServiceOntario account email current for reminders and updates.
Check your renewal status online to track your application.
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Frequently Asked Questions
To renew your security guard license in ServiceOntario, you can apply online through the Government of Ontario licensing portal. Log in using your My Ontario Account or ONe-key ID, enter your current license details, upload a passport-style photo, and pay the renewal fee. Once approved, you will receive a digital security license immediately, while the physical card will be mailed to your address. It is recommended to start the renewal process 60–90 days before your license expires to avoid any interruption in your ability to work as a security guard.
The cost to renew a security guard license in Ontario is $80 plus HST, which is paid directly through the online licensing portal. The fee applies to individuals renewing their license under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005. After payment and approval, your renewed license is valid for two years, provided your work eligibility in Canada remains valid.
To complete your renewal application, you typically need the following information and documents:
Your current security guard license number
Testing Completion Number (TCN) from your original certification
A passport-quality photo
Valid identification and personal details
A Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) if requested
Payment for the renewal fee
All documents must meet the requirements set by the Ministry of the Solicitor General (Ontario) to ensure your application is processed without delays.
Processing time for a security guard license renewal usually takes up to 30 business days after submitting the application. However, many applicants receive a digital license shortly after approval when applying online. During the processing period, you can track your application status through the ServiceOntario licensing portal.
