Ontario Private Investigator Licensing Requirements

Who Qualifies for a PI Licence in Ontario

Before applying for a private investigator licence in Ontario, you must meet specific eligibility criteria. These requirements are designed to ensure that individuals entering the profession are trustworthy, capable, and prepared to uphold the law.

Minimum Age, Legal Work Eligibility, and Clean Criminal Background

To be eligible for licensing:

• You must be at least 18 years of age.
• You must be legally entitled to work in Canada (citizenship, permanent residency, or valid work permit).
• You must have a clean criminal record. Individuals with certain criminal convictions may be denied a licence unless a pardon or record suspension has been granted.

The Ministry performs a background check on every applicant to verify criminal history and ensure suitability for working in the security sector.

Character Assessment and English Language Proficiency

Applicants are also assessed for “good character,” a general standard that evaluates your honesty, integrity, and judgment. This includes:

• A review of your past conduct and interactions with the law
• Evaluation of honesty during the application process

Additionally, while there is no formal language test, you must have proficiency in English to understand the course materials, the licensing exam, and the responsibilities of the job. Effective communication is essential for gathering information, writing reports, and dealing with clients and law enforcement.

How Private Investigator Training Supports Eligibility Standards

Completing a Ministry-approved Private Investigator Training course is mandatory. This 50-hour training program lays the foundation for becoming a licensed PI by covering essential areas such as:

• The Private Security and Investigative Services Act
• Surveillance techniques
• Canadian criminal and civil law
• Note-taking, report writing, and ethics

Training is offered by authorized providers in both in-person and online formats, giving students flexibility while ensuring consistent quality and compliance with Ministry standards.

Mandatory Training for Licensing

Overview of the 50-Hour Ministry-Approved Private Investigator Training Curriculum

The training program is standardized across the province to align with the guidelines set by the Ministry of the Solicitor General. All approved providers are required to cover the complete 50-hour curriculum. Topics are geared toward helping students understand the expectations of the role and how to apply legal principles in real-life investigations.

The curriculum is structured to build both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Upon successful completion, students receive a Training Completion Number, which is required to register for the Ontario Private Investigator Licensing Exam.

Core Modules: Ontario Statute (PSISA), Surveillance, Investigations, Legal Principles, Ethics

The curriculum is divided into multiple core modules, including:

• The Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005 (PSISA): Understanding your legal authority, duties, limitations, and obligations under Ontario law.
• Surveillance Techniques: Learning how to monitor and gather evidence while maintaining discretion and legality.
• Conducting Investigations: From collecting statements to writing detailed reports and maintaining proper chain of evidence.
• Legal Principles: Basics of the Canadian legal system, privacy rights, use of force, arrest procedures, and relevant sections of the Criminal Code.
• Professionalism and Ethics: Emphasis on ethical decision-making, integrity, client confidentiality, and conflict-of-interest scenarios.

Each module includes quizzes, exercises, and real-life scenarios to reinforce learning and help prepare students for the licensing exam.

Choosing Between Online and In-Person Training Providers

Ontario allows you to choose between online and in-person private investigator training providers, provided they are approved by the Ministry. Each format offers distinct advantages:

• Online Training:
  • Flexible, self-paced, and ideal for working professionals
  • Accessible anywhere in Ontario
  • Often includes virtual support and mock tests
• In-Person Training:
  • Structured classroom environment
  • Direct interaction with instructors
  • Opportunity for live demonstrations and hands-on learning

Licensing Exam Requirements

Exam Format: 60-Question Multiple Choice, Pass Mark, and Time Limit

The Ontario PI exam is:

• 60 multiple-choice questions
• Based on the 50-hour training curriculum
• Timed at 75 minutes
• Open to those who have received a valid Training Completion Number

The pass mark is 77%, meaning you must correctly answer at least 46 out of the 60 questions. The test is designed to evaluate your knowledge of:

• PSISA and Ministry Code of Conduct
• Surveillance techniques and best practices
• Legal authority and limitations
• Ethics and professionalism
• Reporting and documentation

The exam is administered through Serco Canada on behalf of the Ministry of the Solicitor General. Testing is available at authorized test centres across Ontario.

Using Your Training Completion Number to Register

Once you finish your training program, the provider will issue a Training Completion Number. You’ll need this number to register for the licensing exam through Serco’s online booking system.

Here’s how it works:

1. Visit the Serco test booking portal
2. Create an account or log in
3. Enter your Training Completion Number
4. Choose a test centre and time slot
5. Pay the applicable exam fee (usually around $66.50 + HST)

Without this number, you won’t be able to register for the test, so ensure your training provider is legitimate and recognized by the Ministry.

Exam Preparation Strategies Focused on Training Content

The key to passing the exam on the first try is focused, efficient study using materials aligned with the curriculum. Strategies include:

• Review your training notes and handouts
• Use mock exams to simulate test conditions and identify weak areas
• Focus on key legal concepts (e.g., PSISA, Criminal Code sections, privacy laws)
• Practice understanding real-life scenarios involving surveillance, interviewing, or report writing
• Attend exam prep review sessions (offered by many training providers)

Many successful candidates also join online forums or study groups where they can share tips and review common questions.

Submitting Your Licence Application

Once you’ve successfully completed your Private Investigator Training and passed the Ontario licensing exam, the final step is to submit your application for a Private Investigator Licence. This process is overseen by ServiceOntario, and requires several documents and fees to be submitted either online or by mail.

Required Documents: Exam Completion, ID, Guarantor Form, Photo, Fee

To apply for your PI licence, you must prepare the following:

• Proof of exam completion: Confirmation from Serco that you’ve passed the licensing exam
• Valid government-issued photo ID: Such as a driver’s licence or passport
• Guarantor Information Form: Signed by someone who can confirm your identity (e.g., a professional such as a teacher, lawyer, or employer)
• Passport-style photo: Must meet specifications (plain background, no filters, recent photo)
• Non-refundable application fee: Currently $80 for a two-year licence, payable by credit card or certified cheque/money order

It’s essential to ensure that all documents are clear, accurate, and complete. Missing or incorrect information can delay your application.

Step-by-Step Submission via ServiceOntario or by Mail

You can submit your application in two ways:

A. Online via ServiceOntario:

1. Visit the official ServiceOntario website
2. Create an ONe-key account if you don’t already have one
3. Complete the online application form
4. Upload your documents (exam proof, photo, guarantor form, and ID)
5. Pay the application fee securely online

B. By Mail:

1. Download and complete the Private Investigator Licence Application form
2. Include all required documents listed above
3. Pay the fee by certified cheque or money order (payable to “Minister of Finance”)
4. Mail the completed application to:
   Private Security and Investigative Services Branch
   Ministry of the Solicitor General
   25 Grosvenor Street, 12th Floor
   Toronto, ON M7A 1Y6

Expected Processing and Delivery Timelines

• Online submissions are generally processed faster, with average turnaround times of 10 to 15 business days.
• Mailed applications may take 3 to 6 weeks, depending on mailing times and processing backlogs.

If your application is approved, you will receive:

• An email confirmation
• A digital licence that you can print
• A hard-copy licence card mailed to your address

Important Tip: You cannot legally work as a private investigator until your licence is issued. Always wait for official confirmation before accepting any job offers.

Licence Renewal and Ongoing Training

Licence Validity (2 Years) and Renewal Notification Timeline

A Private Investigator Licence in Ontario is valid for two years from the date of issuance. The Ministry of the Solicitor General will typically send a renewal notification 60 to 90 days before your licence expires.

To renew:

• Log in to your ONe-key ServiceOntario account
• Submit updated documentation if requested
• Pay the $80 renewal fee
• Ensure your guarantor form and photo are current, if required

It’s crucial to renew before the expiry date, as working with an expired licence is illegal and can lead to fines or penalties.

Continuing Obligations: Updates in Regulations and Professional Development

Licensed private investigators are responsible for keeping up to date with:

• Changes to Ontario’s PSISA and related legislation
• Ministry Code of Conduct and Compliance Expectations
• Best practices in surveillance, evidence handling, and client confidentiality

Failing to stay current can not only risk non-compliance but may also reduce your professional credibility. Some employers or clients may request proof of ongoing training, especially when renewing contracts or taking on complex assignments.

Many investigators choose to participate in:

• Webinars and seminars on industry changes
• Courses on new technologies like digital forensics or GPS tracking
• Refresher modules on legal boundaries, privacy laws, or report writing

How Advanced Private Investigator Training Can Enhance Renewability and Career Growth

While the 50-hour training is a one-time licensing requirement, continuing education through advanced training can significantly benefit your career. Here’s how:

• Demonstrates commitment to professionalism and ethics
• Keeps your knowledge relevant in an evolving legal and technological environment
• Improves your employability and opens doors to specialized roles (e.g., insurance fraud, corporate investigations, cybersecurity)
• Builds credibility with clients and regulatory bodies, especially if facing licence audits or renewals