Private Investigators

The Private Investigator and Security Guards Act define a private investigator as a person who obtains or furnishes information as to the personal characteristics or actions of a person, or as to the character or kind of business of, or the occupation of a person, or searches for missing persons. Both the agencies and their employees must obtain a license.
Applicants applying for an agency license must be Canadian citizens, have liability Insurance, obtain a surety bond in the amount of $5,000 from an insurance company, and Submit a completed affidavit that entails a full criminal record check and fingerprinting. The Private investigation agency licensing fee is $500.

Security Guards - Security guards agencies and their employees may guard, patrol and watch property. They may also respond to security alarm. Both agencies and their employees must obtain a license. Applicants applying for a security guard agency license must be Canadian citizens, have liability insurance, and obtain a surety bond in the amount of $5,000 from an insurance company, submit a completed affidavit that entails a full criminal record check and fingerprinting, as well as an equipment listing and a detailed sketch of the proposed uniform and crest. The security guard agency licensing fee is $400.

Locksmiths - There are two types of locksmiths’ licenses. The automobile master key license is for individuals employed as locksmiths that enable them to work on switches or locks of motor vehicles, or business and/or residential door locks. The restricted automobile master key license is for individuals who fall under the automotive and auto body technician trades as well as tow truck drivers to enables them to possess the equipment required to operate the switches or locks of motor vehicles. Applicants applying for a locksmith license must have liability insurance and submit a completed affidavit that entails a full criminal record check and fingerprinting. There is currently no charge for licensing.