Quick answer
The Ontario security guard test has 60 multiple-choice questions and a 75-minute time limit, and you need 62% (37 of 60) to pass. You book it with your Training Completion Number through Ontario Security Testing, take it online or at select DriveTest centres, and pay $35 + 13% HST ($39.55).
What is the format of the Ontario security guard test?
The test is 60 multiple-choice questions in 75 minutes, and you pass with 62% (37 of 60). You can only book it after you finish your 40-hour basic training.
| Questions | 60 multiple choice |
|---|---|
| Time limit | 75 minutes |
| Pass mark | 62% (37 of 60) |
| Where | Online, or at select DriveTest centres |
| How to book | Ontario Security Testing |
| What you need | Your Training Completion Number (TCN) and a credit card |
| Fee | $35 + 13% HST ($39.55) |
| Retakes | $35 + tax per retake; no limit on retakes |
What topics are on the security guard test?
The test is based on the official Security Guard Study Guide, which covers what you learn in basic training. The Ministry's training syllabus breaks that into 12 sections:
| Section | What you learn | Suggested hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to the security industry | 2 |
| 2 | The Private Security and Investigative Services Act and Ministry Code of Conduct | 2 |
| 3 | Basic security procedures | 3 |
| 4 | Report writing | 2 |
| 5 | Health and safety | 1 |
| 6 | Emergency response preparation | 4 |
| 7 | Canadian legal system | 3 |
| 8 | Legal authorities | 7.5 |
| 9 | Effective communications | 4 |
| 10 | Sensitivity training | 3 |
| 11 | Use of force theory | 2 |
| 12 | Emergency-level first aid certification | 6.5 |
| Total | 40 |
Source: Training syllabus for security guards, ontario.ca. Suggested in-class hours; providers may adjust them as long as the 40-hour minimum is met.
Legal authorities has the most suggested training hours, so expect it to be a big part of what you study.
How do you book the security guard test?
Book online through Ontario Security Testing with your Training Completion Number (TCN) and a credit card. You choose to take the test online or at a DriveTest test centre.
- Book by 3:00 p.m. the day before your test. Walk-ins are not allowed.
- Bookings cannot be cancelled or rescheduled, and the fee is not refundable.
- Accepted payment includes Visa and Mastercard credit cards. Debit cards, Visa Debit, cash and e-transfers are not accepted.
In the GTA, test centres are in Mississauga and Toronto (Metro East and Port Union). See the GTA test centres or the full list of test locations.
How much does the security guard test cost?
The security guard test costs $35 plus 13% HST, which is $39.55 in total. The price is the same whether you take it online or in person.
The test fee is separate from your training and from the $80 licence fee you pay when you apply. See the full cost of getting licensed.
What happens if you fail the security guard test?
You can retake the test as many times as you need, and each retake costs $35 + tax. There is no limit on retakes.
Before you book again, review the official study guide and try our free practice test to find the topics you need to work on.
How do you prepare for the security guard test?
Study the official Security Guard Study Guide, then test yourself with practice questions until you are comfortable with every section. Most of all, know your legal authorities.
- Read the Security Guard Study Guide on ontario.ca.
- Review your course notes. Our course has 12 video modules with practice quizzes.
- Take the free security guard practice test and note what you get wrong.
- Spend extra time on legal authorities, the largest section of the syllabus.
- On test day, watch the clock: 75 minutes for 60 questions is about 75 seconds per question.
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What happens after you pass the security guard test?
After you pass, get your CRJMC and apply online for your licence for $80. Online applications take up to 15 calendar days to process.
Your CRJMC must be issued within six months of when you apply. Get your CRJMC online in about 15 minutes for $59.99 + HST, then follow step 4 of our licence guide.
Security guard test FAQ
How many questions are on the Ontario security guard test?
The test has 60 multiple-choice questions, and you have 75 minutes to finish.
What is the pass mark for the security guard test?
You need 62% (37 of 60) to pass.
Can I take the security guard test online?
Yes. You can take the test online or at select DriveTest centres. You book it with your Training Completion Number through Ontario Security Testing.
How much is the security guard test?
The test costs $35 + 13% HST ($39.55), whether you take it online or in person. It is separate from the $80 licence fee.
What happens if I fail the security guard test?
You can retake the test as many times as you need, and each retake costs $35 + tax. Review the official study guide before you book again.
Can I cancel or reschedule my test booking?
No. Test bookings cannot be cancelled or rescheduled, and the fee is not refundable. You must book by 3:00 p.m. the day before your test.
What do I need to book the test?
You need the Training Completion Number (TCN) from your training provider and a credit card.
Sources: ontario.ca and ontariosecuritytesting.com, checked October 17, 2026.