Are you considering a career in private security in Quebec? Before you begin, it is essential to ensure you have the necessary prerequisites to obtain the mandatory license. Depending on the desired license category, you will need to demonstrate that you have completed the required training as stipulated by regulation. If you have not undergone the required training, it is also possible to request an assessment of your knowledge and skills. Here’s an overview of the training required for the main categories of private security licenses.

Guard Training

To obtain a private security license, specific training must be completed. The Regulation on Guarding Training in Private Security stipulates that you must successfully complete at least 70 hours of courses provided by an accredited school service center or school board. This training is divided into three mandatory modules:

1. Environment, role, legislation, and standards of conduct (30 hours): This module provides an overview of the legal and ethical framework of guarding, including professional responsibilities and expected behaviors.
2. Emergency procedures (24 hours): Here, officers learn how to manage emergency situations, such as fires or evacuations, and apply the appropriate procedures to ensure safety.
3. Workplace first aid (16 hours): This module, recognized by the CNESST, teaches basic first aid skills, which are crucial for effectively intervening in case of an accident or injury.

For more information on this training and upcoming dates in your area, visit agentdesecurite.ca.

Additionally, certain guarding training programs recognized by the Minister of Public Security may also be accepted, provided they have been completed and passed after their official recognition. For specific information on these training programs, refer to the website of the Bureau de la sécurité privée (BSP).

Security Bonuses: Security agents in guarding can benefit from several bonuses depending on their responsibilities and working conditions. For example:

1. Bonus P-4: $0.60/hour for agents who have completed first aid, CPR, and defibrillator training.
2. Bonus P-8: $2.00/hour for agents working in the para-judicial or judicial sector who have undergone training on the use of force.
3. Bonus P-11: $1.00/hour for hours worked between 10 PM and 6 AM.
4. Bonus P-12: $0.50/hour for agents who have completed customer service training.

Work-Study Alternation in Guarding

It is also possible to engage in guarding activities while pursuing the required training through the work-study program. Under certain strict conditions, you can obtain a temporary agent license (guarding training) from the BSP. This temporary license is valid for 120 days, during which you must complete and pass your training. This type of license is granted only once, and you will need to apply for its conversion to a regular license before its validity expires.

Training in Investigation

To obtain an investigation license, you have three options:

1. Introduction to Investigation Techniques Course (135 hours): Offered by college institutions (Cégep), this course covers fundamental investigation techniques.
2. College Diploma (DEC) in Police Techniques: This diploma, obtained within the last five years, is also recognized for obtaining an investigation license.
3. Bachelor’s Degree in Security and Police Studies: A recently obtained university degree in this field is also valid for access to this license.

Investigation training programs recognized by the Minister of Public Security may also be accepted, provided they meet the recognition criteria. For more information on these programs, consult the BSP.

Training in Electronic Security Systems

Currently, no specific training is required to obtain a license in electronic security systems. However, engaging in this activity may require additional training from other regulatory bodies, such as the Commission de la construction du Québec, to ensure compliance with current standards.

Training in Locksmithing

To work in locksmithing, you must have obtained a vocational studies diploma (DEP) in locksmithing or an equivalent diploma recognized by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEES). You can visit the Inforoute de la formation professionnelle et technique website for more information on this training and upcoming sessions available.

Additionally, the following school service centers offer the vocational studies diploma (DEP) in locksmithing through a work-study program:

1. Centre de services scolaires des Grandes-Seigneuries
2. Centre de services scolaires Marguerite-Bourgeoys
3. Centre de services scolaires de la Capitale

A pilot project, RAC-SER, also allows for obtaining a DEP in locksmithing through the recognition of acquired competencies while working under supervision. For more details, you can consult the information available on the RAC-SER pilot project.

Training in Transporting Valuables

To work in transporting valuables, you must successfully complete training on handling firearms and the use of force, provided by an instructor qualified by the École nationale de police du Québec (ENPQ). This training is typically delivered directly by licensed transport agencies authorized by the BSP. Be sure to inquire with these agencies about the training arrangements.

Consulting Service Training

No specific training is required to obtain a consulting service license. However, you must demonstrate to the BSP that you possess the practical knowledge and skills necessary to advise on protection methods against theft, intrusion, or vandalism. You will need to provide documents such as your resume, employment certificates, relevant diplomas, and examples of completed projects.

Assessment of Knowledge and Skills Equivalence

If you have not completed the required training for the desired license but believe you possess equivalent knowledge and skills, you can request an assessment of your competencies from the BSP. To do this, you will need to provide evidence of your diplomas, completed courses, internships, and experience in security. It is important to note that a resume alone is not sufficient; employer attestations are necessary.

For specific training programs, such as those in security guarding, investigation, locksmithing, or transporting valuables, recognition of acquired competencies services are available through educational institutions and school service centers.

Conclusion

The training required to obtain private security licenses in Quebec varies depending on the chosen specialization. It is crucial to complete the appropriate training to meet legal requirements and ensure quality professional practice. If you have equivalent knowledge to that required by the training programs, you can request an assessment of your skills. For more information on training and the necessary procedures, consult the resources available from educational centers and regulatory bodies.

Are you interested in a career in private security with Charco Sécurité? Discover the many benefits of working with us by visiting our Careers page. There, you will find information about our work environment, professional growth opportunities, and benefits offered to our employees. We also invite you to check our Job Offers page to see the current opportunities available and apply to join our dynamic team.