First Aid & CPR requirements
Emergency First Aid with CPR/AED certification is required to apply for your Ontario security guard licence. This must be completed in person through an approved provider.
What certification do you need?
The Ontario Ministry requires Emergency First Aid with CPR/AED. Here's exactly what that means.
Emergency First Aid certification (not Standard First Aid)
CPR Level A or C certification
AED (Automated External Defibrillator) training
Certificate must be current and not expired
Training must be completed in person (online not accepted)
Cannot be completed online
First Aid and CPR certification must be done in person. Online-only first aid courses are not accepted by the Ministry for security guard licensing.
Quick facts
$100 – $125
Typical cost
1 day
Usually 6–8 hours
3 years
Certification validity
Approved training providers
Any of these organizations offer Emergency First Aid with CPR/AED courses accepted by the Ontario Ministry.
St. John Ambulance
Canada's leading first aid training provider. Locations across Ontario.
Visit websiteHeart & Stroke Foundation
CPR and AED certification with a focus on cardiac emergency response.
Visit websiteWhen should you take First Aid?
You can complete your First Aid certification at any point during the licensing process.
You do not need First Aid before starting the OSGTC course. Many students complete their security guard training first, then take First Aid while waiting to book their Ministry exam.
You will need your First Aid certificate when you apply for your security guard licence through ServiceOntario. Make sure your certificate is current at the time of application.
Need help finding a provider near you? Contact us and we'll help you find one.
First Aid is one piece of the puzzle
Start your 40-hour security guard course today while you schedule your First Aid certification.