I85PREP
⌘ K
Ontario Security Guard study materials
Ontario Security Guard study resources

Ontario Security Guard practice questions

One question at a time. Build your Ontario Security Guard understanding.

First 50 of 199 questions. Each one lists the choices, the correct answer, and an explanation. The checker at the top of this page saves progress in this browser when it is available.

Continue in the practice tool above to load more questions, 50 at a time.

Question 1Introduction to the Security Industry

Which Ontario statute establishes the licensing framework for security guards and private investigators?

  1. The Trespass to Property Act, 1990
  2. The Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005 Correct answer.
  3. The Police Services Act, 1990
  4. The Criminal Code of Canada

Explanation

The Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005 creates the licensing system for security guards and private investigators and sets out a Code of Conduct for licensees. It is administered through the Ministry of the Solicitor General and its Registrar.

Question 2Introduction to the Security Industry

Which body issues and administers security guard licences in Ontario?

  1. The Ministry of the Solicitor General Correct answer.
  2. The local municipal police service
  3. Ontario Provincial Police
  4. The Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development

Explanation

Security licensing is administered by the Ministry of the Solicitor General through the Registrar of Private Security and Investigative Services. Police services enforce the law but play no role in issuing provincial security licences.

Question 3Introduction to the Security Industry

What is the minimum age to hold a security guard licence in Ontario?

  1. 19 years
  2. 17 years
  3. 18 years Correct answer.
  4. 16 years

Explanation

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, legally entitled to work in Canada, and must complete the required training and testing before a licence is issued.

Question 4Introduction to the Security Industry

How long is the basic security guard training course that must be completed before writing the ministry licensing test?

  1. 20 hours
  2. 60 hours
  3. 40 hours Correct answer.
  4. 80 hours

Explanation

The basic security guard training course in Ontario is 40 hours and covers legislation, powers of arrest, use of force, report writing and emergency response. It must be completed before the applicant writes the ministry test.

Question 5Introduction to the Security Industry

Which additional certification must a security guard applicant hold?

  1. Emergency first aid with CPR level C Correct answer.
  2. Standard first aid with AED
  3. Workplace hazardous materials training
  4. A firearms safety course

Explanation

Ontario requires proof of current emergency first aid and CPR level C certification from a recognized provider as part of the licence application. The certification must be kept current while licensed.

Question 6Introduction to the Security Industry

While on duty, a licensed security guard must:

  1. Display the licence only when a police officer asks
  2. Leave the licence at the employer's office
  3. Carry the licence and produce it on request Correct answer.
  4. Carry a photocopy in place of the licence

Explanation

A licensee must have the licence with them while working and show it when asked by a police officer, a ministry inspector or an employer representative. The licence is proof of authority to work.

Question 7Introduction to the Security Industry

Under Ontario's security regulations, a guard's uniform must:

  1. Be approved by the local police chief
  2. Bear the word "security" in a clearly visible place Correct answer.
  3. Be identical to a municipal police uniform
  4. Include a metal badge shaped like a police shield

Explanation

Regulations require a uniform that is distinctive and clearly displays the word "security" so the public can tell guards from police. Uniforms must not resemble police uniforms.

Question 8Introduction to the Security Industry

A licensed security guard's legal authority to arrest is:

  1. Greater than the public but less than police
  2. The same as that of any member of the public Correct answer.
  3. Unlimited while on private property
  4. The same as that of a police officer

Explanation

Ontario security guards are not peace officers. They rely on the same citizen powers of arrest found in the Criminal Code and the Trespass to Property Act.

Question 9Introduction to the Security Industry

While patrolling a mall, a guard sees a man smash a store window and run off with merchandise. What is the guard's best legal basis to arrest?

  1. Section 494 of the Criminal Code, as the offence was committed in the guard's presence Correct answer.
  2. The Police Services Act, because the mall is private property
  3. The Mental Health Act, because the person appears agitated and may need help
  4. None; the guard can only watch and must wait for police

Explanation

Section 494 of the Criminal Code allows any person to arrest without warrant someone found committing an indictable offence. The guard must then deliver the person to police without delay and use only as much force as is necessary.

Question 10Introduction to the Security Industry

Under the Trespass to Property Act, a guard acting for the occupier may arrest a person without warrant when:

  1. Reasonable grounds exist that an offence under the Act is occurring on site Correct answer.
  2. The person has been banned from the property in the past
  3. The person refuses to give a name to the guard
  4. The person is a former employee of the client

Explanation

The Act permits an occupier or authorized person to arrest without warrant someone believed on reasonable grounds to be committing an offence under the Act on the premises. The person must then be delivered promptly to a police officer.

Question 11Introduction to the Security Industry

Ontario law limits a security guard's use of force to:

  1. Force that is reasonable and necessary in the circumstances Correct answer.
  2. Whatever the client instructs in the contract
  3. No force under any circumstances
  4. The same level of force used by the suspect

Explanation

Section 25 of the Criminal Code permits only as much force as is reasonable and necessary, and section 26 makes excessive force a criminal offence. Force must be proportionate, and the most serious force is justified only to prevent death or grievous bodily harm.

Question 12Introduction to the Security Industry

A guard holds only a security guard licence. Which statement about investigative work is correct?

  1. The guard may use the title "investigator" if the client approves
  2. The guard must not hold themselves out as a private investigator Correct answer.
  3. The guard may conduct investigations as long as no fee is charged
  4. The guard may use the title only when off duty

Explanation

The Private Security and Investigative Services Act prohibits anyone who is not a licensed private investigator from holding themselves out as one or performing that role. Investigative work requires a separate private investigator licence.

Question 13Introduction to the Security Industry

Which behaviour is consistent with the PSISA Code of Conduct?

  1. Ignoring a no-trespass order for a friend
  2. Declining a gift offered in exchange for favourable treatment Correct answer.
  3. Using confidential client information for personal profit
  4. Accepting cash from a detainee in exchange for release

Explanation

The Code of Conduct requires honesty, fairness and the avoidance of conflicts of interest, including refusing benefits that could influence the guard's duties. Accepting payment or misusing confidential information for personal gain breaches the Code.

Question 14Introduction to the Security Industry

A guard suspects a customer is carrying stolen merchandise. What search authority does the guard have?

  1. Full search powers equivalent to a police officer's
  2. A statutory power to search bags at any time on private property
  3. Authority once the store manager verbally approves
  4. Only consent, or a search incident to a lawful arrest Correct answer.

Explanation

Guards have no statutory search power beyond that of an ordinary citizen. Searching a bag normally requires consent, and a refusal may only lead to a lawful request to leave; after a lawful arrest, a limited search incident to arrest may be permitted for safety and evidence.

Question 15Introduction to the Security Industry

A guard notices a suspicious person loitering near the loading dock. Which action best reflects the observe-and-report role?

  1. Ignore it unless a crime is committed
  2. Confront and physically remove the person immediately
  3. Wait until the end of shift to write a report
  4. Record the time and description, and notify the supervisor Correct answer.

Explanation

The guard's core role is deterrence, observation and accurate reporting, escalating to intervention only within legal authority and post orders. Prompt notification and timely notes protect people and preserve evidence.

Question 16Introduction to the Security Industry

Which entry is written correctly for a security guard's notebook?

  1. At 2145 hrs, a male about 30 years old was unsteady on his feet near the north exit. Correct answer.
  2. The subject was acting like a troublemaker, as he usually does at this hour of the night.
  3. The male looked drunk and I figured he would probably cause trouble later on during the night shift.
  4. I believe the male had been banned before, based on the way he was acting tonight.

Explanation

Notes should record observable facts, with times, in neutral objective language. Conclusions about intoxication, predictions of behaviour and opinions about character undermine the reliability of the notes if they are later used in court or in a report.

Question 17Introduction to the Security Industry

A guard is asked by a reporter for details about an incident involving a client's employee. The guard should:

  1. Provide the details because the incident happened in a public area
  2. Sell the information to the reporter
  3. Refer the request to the supervisor and disclose nothing Correct answer.
  4. Share the employee's name and address only

Explanation

Information learned on duty is confidential, and privacy laws restrict its disclosure. Requests from media or other outsiders are referred to the client or supervisor through the proper channels.

Question 18Introduction to the Security Industry

What are post orders?

  1. Written site instructions from the employer or client Correct answer.
  2. Licensing requirements set by the ministry
  3. Court orders restricting a person from attending a site
  4. Police directives issued to a security company

Explanation

Post orders are written, site-specific instructions that set out duties, reporting lines, emergency procedures and the limits of the guard's role at that location. A guard must know and follow them while still complying with the law.

Question 19Introduction to the Security Industry

Which statement about a citizen's arrest made by a security guard is correct?

  1. The guard may hold the person until the investigation is complete
  2. The guard may search the person's home for evidence
  3. The guard must deliver the person to police without delay Correct answer.
  4. The guard may use handcuffs without any training or policy

Explanation

After a lawful citizen's arrest the guard must call police and hand the person over without delay, using only as much force as is necessary. Holding a person longer than needed or acting outside the scope of the arrest exposes the guard to liability.

Question 20Introduction to the Security Industry

A contract guard sees a spill in a mall corridor and walks past without reporting it; a shopper later slips. Which concept most directly explains the guard's potential liability?

  1. Criminal liability for assault
  2. Strict liability for every injury on private property
  3. Negligence from a breach of the duty of care owed to people on site Correct answer.
  4. Vicarious liability of the shopper

Explanation

Occupiers, and those acting on their behalf, owe a duty of reasonable care to people on the premises. Failing to report or address a foreseeable hazard can amount to negligence, and the employer may also be vicariously liable for its employees' acts at work.

Question 21Introduction to the Security Industry

Police are not yet on scene and a person on the property appears to be in a mental health crisis. What authority does the guard have to apprehend the person under the Mental Health Act?

  1. The guard may apprehend the person if a doctor signs a form
  2. None; only a police officer may apprehend under the Act Correct answer.
  3. The guard may apprehend the person if a family member agrees
  4. The guard may apprehend anyone who refuses to leave the property

Explanation

The Mental Health Act gives apprehension powers to police officers, not to private security guards. The guard should keep the person and others safe, call police and emergency services, and document what was observed.

Question 22Introduction to the Security Industry

A uniformed guard in a marked vehicle sees an assault take place on a public street two blocks from the assigned site. Which statement best describes the guard's authority?

  1. He has only citizen powers: call 911, observe and act only to prevent serious harm Correct answer.
  2. He may not take any action because he is on duty elsewhere
  3. He may detain anyone involved until police arrive, using whatever force is needed
  4. He may arrest because his uniform gives him authority anywhere in the province

Explanation

A licence authorizes employment in security work; it does not extend a guard's powers beyond those of a citizen or beyond the property where the guard is authorized to act. Reporting, observing and using only reasonable force when necessary is the correct approach.

Question 23Introduction to the Security Industry

If the Registrar refuses to issue or renew a security guard licence, the applicant may:

  1. Reapply immediately with no waiting period
  2. Ask the local police chief to overrule the Registrar
  3. Appeal to the Ontario Court of Appeal
  4. Appeal to the Licence Appeal Tribunal Correct answer.

Explanation

Licensing decisions of the Registrar under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act may be appealed to the Licence Appeal Tribunal, an independent adjudicative body. The tribunal can confirm, vary or set aside the Registrar's decision.

Question 24Introduction to the Security Industry

Which statement about handcuffs and similar use-of-force equipment for Ontario security guards is accurate?

  1. Only guards employed by police services may carry them
  2. Any licensed guard may carry handcuffs as part of the uniform
  3. Handcuffs may be used to punish an uncooperative person
  4. Use depends on employer policy and documented training Correct answer.

Explanation

The licence itself confers no special powers; the use of restraints is governed by employer policy, documented training and the reasonableness standard in the Criminal Code. Misuse can lead to criminal charges, discipline and licence sanctions.

Question 25Introduction to the Security Industry

A guard seizes a knife from a person after a lawful arrest. Which practice best preserves the evidence?

  1. Record it, secure it and give it to police with documented continuity Correct answer.
  2. Photograph the knife and then return it to the person who was arrested
  3. Hand the knife to a bystander for safekeeping until officers arrive
  4. Keep the knife in a uniform pocket until the end of the shift and mention it later

Explanation

Evidence must be recorded, secured and transferred with an unbroken, documented chain of custody so that it can be relied on in court. Gaps in continuity can make the item inadmissible or seriously weaken the case.

Question 26Introduction to the Security Industry

Which Ontario statute is the main law governing the licensing and conduct of security guards?

  1. The Occupational Health and Safety Act
  2. The PSISA Correct answer.
  3. The Police Services Act
  4. The Criminal Code

Explanation

The Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005 (PSISA) sets licensing, training, and conduct rules for Ontario's private security industry. The other statutes either apply to everyone, govern public police, or address workplace safety rather than security licensing.

Question 27Introduction to the Security Industry

What is the minimum age to be eligible for a security guard licence in Ontario?

  1. 17 years
  2. 18 years Correct answer.
  3. 16 years
  4. 21 years

Explanation

Ontario requires a security guard licence applicant to be at least 18 years old. A person who is 16 or 17 is below the licensing minimum, while 21 is not the minimum age.

Question 28Introduction to the Security Industry

Before an applicant can be issued a security guard licence in Ontario, the applicant must generally:

  1. have a college diploma in police foundations
  2. complete approved training and pass the test Correct answer.
  3. pass a physical fitness test
  4. be sponsored by a police service

Explanation

Ontario requires mandatory training through a Ministry-approved provider and successful completion of the required test before licensing. Physical fitness testing, a police foundations diploma, and police sponsorship are not general licensing requirements.

Question 29Introduction to the Security Industry

Which description best reflects the primary role of a security guard?

  1. Deter loss and observe and report incidents Correct answer.
  2. Investigate crimes and gather evidence for police
  3. Enforce the Criminal Code and lay charges
  4. Prosecute offenders in court

Explanation

A security guard's main function is prevention through visible presence, access control, and accurate reporting. Guards are private citizens and do not have police authority to investigate crimes or prosecute offenders.

Question 30Introduction to the Security Industry

A company plans to sell uniformed guard services to local businesses. What licensing does the company need under Ontario law?

  1. Only each guard needs a licence; the company needs none
  2. A private investigator licence
  3. No licence if the guards are unarmed
  4. A security agency licence plus licensed guards Correct answer.

Explanation

The PSISA licenses both individual guards and security agencies. A business that provides guard services must hold a security agency licence, and each guard must also hold a valid guard licence.

Question 31Introduction to the Security Industry

An employer assigns a worker to guard a construction site, but the worker has no security guard licence. Which statement is correct?

  1. No offence occurs if a supervisor is on site
  2. Only the employer can be penalized
  3. Both employer and worker may face penalties Correct answer.
  4. Only the worker can be penalized

Explanation

The PSISA prohibits unlicensed individuals from performing security services and prohibits employers from using unlicensed guards. Both the worker and the employer can face consequences, and supervision does not cure the lack of a licence.

Question 32Introduction to the Security Industry

A guard's licence is suspended by the Registrar. What should the guard do?

  1. Return the uniform but continue patrols
  2. Continue working until the employer receives written notice
  3. Stop work immediately and notify the employer Correct answer.
  4. Work only on night shifts until the suspension is lifted

Explanation

A suspended licence removes the legal authority to provide security services, so the guard must stop working immediately and inform the employer. A guard cannot continue limited duties while suspended.

Question 33Introduction to the Security Industry

Under the PSISA, who has authority to impose conditions on a security guard licence?

  1. The local police chief
  2. The Ontario Court of Justice
  3. The client who contracts the guard
  4. The Registrar Correct answer.

Explanation

The Registrar administers security licensing and may impose conditions, suspend, or revoke a licence. Courts, police chiefs, and clients do not set licence conditions under the PSISA.

Question 34Introduction to the Security Industry

A guard is assigned to a site owned by a close family member. What is the most appropriate action?

  1. Disclose it to the supervisor and follow direction Correct answer.
  2. Refuse to work any site permanently
  3. Ask the client for a bonus
  4. Keep the relationship private to avoid paperwork

Explanation

A potential conflict of interest must be disclosed so the employer can manage it appropriately. Secrecy undermines professional integrity, while requesting a bonus or refusing all work is not the proper response.

Question 35Introduction to the Security Industry

While on patrol, a guard discovers a fire in a storage room. What is the best immediate action?

  1. Attempt to extinguish the fire regardless of size or training
  2. Follow emergency procedures: activate alarm and call 911 Correct answer.
  3. Finish the patrol and report it at the end of shift
  4. Wait for a supervisor before doing anything

Explanation

Emergency response should follow site procedures, which normally include activating the alarm, calling emergency services, and helping with evacuation. Untrained firefighting or delaying the response can endanger people.

Question 36Introduction to the Security Industry

A visitor arrives without an appointment and asks to enter a restricted area. What is the best response?

  1. Deny entry and refer the visitor to the contact Correct answer.
  2. Physically remove the visitor from the lobby
  3. Ask another visitor to vouch for the person
  4. Allow entry if the visitor seems friendly

Explanation

Access control requires confirming that a person is authorized before allowing entry. An unauthorized visitor should be politely denied and directed to the appropriate authorized contact.

Question 37Introduction to the Security Industry

Which practice is best for controlling keys at a security post?

  1. Keep all keys in a personal pocket during shifts
  2. Give a spare set to any client employee who asks
  3. Leave keys on the desk for easy access
  4. Log keys out and in; store them securely Correct answer.

Explanation

Key control depends on accountability and secure storage, including logging keys out and back in. Personal pockets, uncontrolled distribution, and open storage increase the risk of loss or misuse.

Question 38Introduction to the Security Industry

A guard arrives for a night shift and appears impaired by alcohol. The supervisor is not on site. What is the most appropriate action?

  1. Drink coffee and start the shift after 30 minutes
  2. Ask a co-worker to cover the first hour and then start
  3. Begin patrol but avoid contact with the public
  4. Do not start duty; notify the supervisor or manager Correct answer.

Explanation

A guard must be fit for duty, and impairment compromises safety, judgment, and legal responsibilities. The guard should not begin work and must notify a supervisor or manager according to site procedures.

Question 39Introduction to the Security Industry

A client tells a guard to deny entry to people of a particular religion. How should the guard respond?

  1. Apply the rule only during busy periods
  2. Ask the people to come back when the client is absent
  3. Follow the instruction because the client owns the property
  4. Refuse the instruction and report it to the supervisor Correct answer.

Explanation

Discriminatory instructions conflict with human rights law and professional conduct standards. A guard should not carry out the instruction and should report it through the proper chain of command.

Question 40Introduction to the Security Industry

Why does Ontario regulate the private security industry through licensing and a code of conduct?

  1. To give guards the same powers as police officers
  2. To guarantee that every guard will stop crime
  3. To protect the public and set standards Correct answer.
  4. To replace municipal police services

Explanation

Regulation serves the public interest by setting training, conduct, and accountability standards for security providers. It does not give guards police powers, guarantee crime prevention, or replace public police.

Question 41Private Security and Investigative Services Act and Code of Conduct

The Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005 primarily governs which group?

  1. Federal border services officers
  2. Security guards and private investigators Correct answer.
  3. Provincial correctional officers
  4. Sworn municipal police officers

Explanation

The Act creates the licensing scheme for private investigators and security guards working in Ontario, including training, licensing and conduct requirements. Sworn police, correctional officers and federal border officers are governed by other statutes.

Question 42Private Security and Investigative Services Act and Code of Conduct

While on duty, a licensed security guard must do which of the following with their licence?

  1. Send a photocopy to the local police service
  2. Leave it in the employer's office safe
  3. Display it only when making an arrest
  4. Carry it at all times and produce it on request Correct answer.

Explanation

A licensee must carry the licence while performing duties and produce it when requested by a police officer, an inspector or the Registrar. Keeping it locked away or relying on a photocopy does not satisfy this requirement.

Question 43Private Security and Investigative Services Act and Code of Conduct

How many hours of mandatory training must a person complete before being licensed as a security guard in Ontario?

  1. 20 hours
  2. 30 hours
  3. 40 hours Correct answer.
  4. 10 hours

Explanation

Ontario's licensing framework requires completion of the prescribed 40-hour security guard training course before a licence is issued. The training covers topics such as the legal framework, report writing and use of force theory.

Question 44Private Security and Investigative Services Act and Code of Conduct

Who has the authority to issue, refuse, suspend and revoke security guard licences in Ontario?

  1. The chief of police of the municipality where the guard works
  2. The Ontario Superior Court of Justice, on application
  3. The employer's human resources manager, on approval
  4. The Registrar of Private Investigators and Security Guards Correct answer.

Explanation

Licensing decisions are made by the Registrar appointed under the Act, who administers the licensing system for the province. Police services and employers play no role in granting or cancelling a licence.

Question 45Private Security and Investigative Services Act and Code of Conduct

The Code of Conduct under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005 sets out which of the following?

  1. The curriculum for mandatory training courses
  2. Standards of behaviour required of licensees Correct answer.
  3. The fee schedule for licence applications
  4. The design of approved security uniforms

Explanation

The Code of Conduct establishes the ethical and professional behaviour expected of every licensee, such as honesty, compliance with the law and avoidance of conflicts of interest. Fees, training content and uniform specifications are dealt with elsewhere in the regulatory scheme.

Question 46Private Security and Investigative Services Act and Code of Conduct

A person may perform security guard duties in Ontario only if the person holds which of the following?

  1. A valid first aid certificate only
  2. A high school diploma
  3. A police background check receipt
  4. A valid security guard licence Correct answer.

Explanation

Performing security guard work without a valid licence is an offence under the Act. A first aid certificate is a licensing prerequisite but does not by itself authorize anyone to work as a guard.

Question 47Private Security and Investigative Services Act and Code of Conduct

Which additional certification is required to obtain a security guard licence in Ontario?

  1. A firearms licence
  2. A driver's licence
  3. A current first aid and CPR certificate Correct answer.
  4. A baton and handcuff certificate

Explanation

Applicants must hold valid first aid and CPR certification in addition to completing the mandatory training course. Firearms, driving and defensive equipment certificates are not universal licensing requirements.

Question 48Private Security and Investigative Services Act and Code of Conduct

A licensed security guard moves to a new home address. What must the guard do under the Act?

  1. Wait until the licence is renewed to report it
  2. Report the change to the local police service
  3. Tell only the current employer's supervisor
  4. Notify the Registrar in writing of the change Correct answer.

Explanation

Licensees must keep the Registrar informed of changes to their licensing information, including a change of address. Waiting for renewal or telling only the employer leaves the licensing record inaccurate.

Question 49Private Security and Investigative Services Act and Code of Conduct

The Registrar has reasonable grounds to believe a licensee's continued work poses an immediate risk to public safety. What may the Registrar do?

  1. Refer the matter to the licensee's employer
  2. Issue a written warning and take no further action
  3. Suspend the licence immediately, without a hearing Correct answer.
  4. Wait for a court conviction before acting

Explanation

The Act allows the Registrar to suspend a licence immediately where there are reasonable grounds that public safety is at risk. A hearing is not a precondition to this protective step, although the licensee may later appeal the decision.

Question 50Private Security and Investigative Services Act and Code of Conduct

A licensee whose licence is revoked by the Registrar may appeal the decision to which body?

  1. The Ontario Court of Justice
  2. The municipal police services board
  3. The Licence Appeal Tribunal Correct answer.
  4. The Ontario Human Rights Tribunal

Explanation

Appeals of licensing decisions under the Act are made to the Licence Appeal Tribunal, which reviews the Registrar's decision. A police services board or human rights tribunal has no jurisdiction over private security licensing.