Training to be a security industry professional
Security Industry Training Courses
Security Guards
You must complete Basic Security Training through an approved school before applying to the Registrar for a security guard licence. You can also complete Basic Security Training online through the Justice Institute of British Columbia (JIBC).
If you can demonstrate that you have training or experience as a Canadian police officer, auxiliary or reserve officer, correctional officer, sheriff, or border service officer, you may be exempted from Basic Security Training. Documentation from your employer or supervisor should be attached to your application.
If you do not have Basic Security Training or the experience described above, and you believe your previous training or experience should qualify you for a licence, submit supporting documentation with your application and fees, and an equivalency review will be conducted. Application fees cannot be returned.
Security Programs Division has determined the following provincial training as equivalent:
- Alberta (certified)
- Saskatchewan
- Manitoba
- Ontario
A clear copy of a valid licence from these provinces is required with your application.
Private Investigators (under supervision)
Before applying to the Registrar for a private investigator (under supervision) licence, you must complete the online course Introduction to Private Investigation by the Professional Security Knowledge Network or an equivalent course by another school.
If you have private investigation (or security consulting) training or certification from another Province but want to work in British Columbia, submit documentation (1.8MB PDF) demonstrating your training and experience to the Registrar.
Security Alarm Installers
You must earn a Certificate of Qualification from the SkilledTradesBC before applying to the Registrar for a security alarm installer licence. For more information, visit the SkilledTradesBC website.
If you have a security alarm installer qualification from another Province but want to work in British Columbia, contact SkilledTradesBC to write a challenge exam.
Locksmiths
You must earn a Certificate of Qualification from the SkilledTradesBC before applying to the Registrar for a locksmith licence. You may also apply if you have two years within the past five years of documented experience working as a full time locksmith under supervision and supporting letters from your employer. If you have a locksmith qualification from another Province but want to work in British Columbia, contact SkilledTradesBC to write a challenge exam.
Related Training
Firearms
To be licensed as an armoured car guard, you must possess a valid Authorization to Carry Restricted Firearms and Prohibited Handguns certificate (ATC) issued under the Firearms Act. For more information, see the Canadian Firearms Centre website.
Dogs
You must have a current Canine Security Validation from the JIBC before the Registrar will permit you to use a dog while working as a security guard. This validation must be renewed every year.
Restraints
You must have a current Advanced Security Training Certificate from the JIBC before the Registrar will permit you to use restraints (handcuffs) while working as a security guard.
