Eligibility Requirements Before Training

Before enrolling in any private investigator training program in Ontario, it’s essential to meet the minimum eligibility criteria set by the Ministry of the Solicitor General. These requirements ensure that only qualified individuals begin the path toward becoming a licensed private investigator.

Minimum Age and Legal Work Status in Canada

To begin your training, you must be at least 18 years of age. Additionally, you must be legally entitled to work in Canada, either as a citizen, permanent resident, or with valid work authorization. Training providers and licensing authorities will typically ask for documentation to verify your status.

Criminal Background Check Requirement

One of the core eligibility requirements is a clean criminal record. Prospective private investigators must undergo a criminal background check through a police service or an accredited third-party provider. Convictions for serious offences may disqualify you from obtaining a private investigator licence in Ontario.

A clear background is necessary not only to meet provincial licensing laws but also to gain the trust of future employers and clients in the investigative field.

Importance of Meeting Prerequisites Before Training

Enrolling in a ministry-approved private investigator training course before confirming your eligibility can be a costly mistake. Some institutions may not refund your fees if you’re later found to be ineligible for licensing. That’s why it’s strongly recommended to:

• Verify your age and legal work status
• Confirm you have a clean criminal record
• Understand all prerequisites prior to committing to a training program

Meeting these criteria early ensures a smoother path from training to licensing and ultimately to employment as a private investigator in Ontario.

Duration of Private Investigator Training in Ontario

Ministry-Approved Training Course Length: Typically 50 Hours

In Ontario, aspiring private investigators are required to complete a minimum of 50 hours of basic training. This standard is set by the Ministry of the Solicitor General and is mandatory for eligibility to write the provincial licensing exam. The training curriculum encompasses essential topics such as the Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA), investigative techniques, legal procedures, and ethical considerations.

Options for Full-Time, Part-Time, and Online Formats

Ontario offers flexibility in training formats to accommodate diverse learning preferences and schedules:

• Online Training: Many accredited providers offer fully online courses, allowing students to learn at their own pace. These programs often include interactive modules and real-time instructor support.
• In-Class Training: Traditional classroom settings are available at community colleges and private career colleges, providing structured learning environments and opportunities for hands-on practice.
• Hybrid Models: Some institutions combine online theoretical instruction with in-person practical sessions, offering a balanced approach to learning.

This variety ensures that individuals can select a training format that aligns with their personal and professional commitments.

How the Training Schedule Can Affect Completion Time

The duration to complete the 50-hour training varies based on the chosen format and individual pacing:

• Full-Time: Students attending full-time programs may complete the training within a week, dedicating approximately 8–10 hours daily.
• Part-Time: Those opting for part-time schedules might spread the training over several weeks, attending evening or weekend classes.
• Online Self-Paced: Online learners have the flexibility to progress through the course at their own speed, which can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on their availability and learning pace.

Timeframe for Scheduling and Writing the Licensing Exam

Overview of the Private Investigator Licence Exam

The Ontario Private Investigator Licence Exam is a standardized test administered by Serco Canada on behalf of the Ministry of the Solicitor General. The exam assesses your knowledge of relevant laws, investigative techniques, and ethical practices. It consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, and you must achieve a minimum score of 77% to pass. 

How Soon You Can Write the Exam After Training

Upon successful completion of the 50-hour training course, your training provider will issue you a Training Completion Number (TCN). This TCN is essential for booking your licensing exam. There is no mandatory waiting period between completing your training and scheduling the exam; you can book the exam as soon as you receive your TCN. 

Exam Scheduling Timelines and Result Wait Times

Booking the Exam:

• Advance Booking: You must book your exam at least one day in advance, before 3:00 PM. 
• Test Locations: Exams are conducted at over 92 DriveTest Centres across Ontario. 
• Online Booking: You can book your exam online through the official website. 

Exam Fee:

• The cost of the exam is $35.00 CAD plus 13% HST, totaling $39.55 CAD. 

Receiving Results:

• After completing the exam, you will receive an email within two business days notifying you that your results are ready. 

Applying for Your Licence and Processing Time

Step-by-Step Summary of the Licence Application Process

1. Complete the Application Form: Access the application form on the
2. Gather Required Documents: Ensure you have all necessary documents ready for submission.
3. Submit the Application: Applications can be submitted online or by mail.
4. Pay the Application Fee: The fee for a new licence is $80.00 CAD.
5. Await Processing: Processing times may vary; see below for details.

Required Documents

When applying for your licence, you’ll need to provide:

• Proof of Training Completion: A certificate or completion number from your Ministry-approved training course.
• Valid Identification: Two pieces of valid government-issued ID, such as a driver’s licence and passport.
• Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC): This check must be current and obtained from your local police service.
• Passport-Quality Photo: A recent photograph that meets passport standards.
• Guarantor Information Form: Completed by a person who can confirm your identity.

Processing Time for Your Ontario Licence

The time it takes to receive your licence can vary:

• Online Applications: Typically processed faster, often within 10 business days. 
• Mail-In Applications: May take up to 30 calendar days to process.

Total Timeframe: From Start to Licence

If you’re planning to become a licensed private investigator in Ontario, it’s important to understand the full journey—from checking your eligibility to receiving your licence. While individual experiences vary, most applicants can complete the entire process within 4 to 8 weeks, depending on personal availability and how quickly each stage is completed.

Summary of All Stages

Here’s a realistic breakdown of the timeline for each step:

• Pre-Training Eligibility(Varies)
  • Time needed to confirm you meet basic requirements (age, work status, clean criminal record).
  • May take a few days to a week, depending on how quickly you obtain background checks and documentation.
• Training Course(1–2 Weeks)
  • Ministry-approved private investigator training in Ontario requires a minimum of 50 hours.
  • Can be completed in as little as one week (full-time) or over two or more weeks (part-time or self-paced online).
• Exam Prep and Writing(1 Week or More)
  • Once you complete the course and receive your Training Completion Number (TCN), you can immediately book the exam.
  • Study time varies, but most applicants prepare within a few days to a week.
  • Exam results are typically available within two business days.
• Licensing Process(2–4 Weeks)
  • Once you’ve passed the exam, you can apply through ServiceOntario.
  • Online applications are processed faster—usually within 10 business days.
  • Mailed applications can take up to 30 calendar days.

Realistic Expectations: 4–8 Weeks Total

The total timeframe depends on:

• How quickly you gather documents and meet prerequisites
• Your training format (accelerated or part-time)
• Exam scheduling availability at your preferred DriveTest Centre
• Whether you apply online or by mail

A motivated applicant with availability and prompt documentation can realistically become licensed in as little as four weeks, while others may take six to eight weeks or more.

Final Encouragement

Becoming a private investigator in Ontario is a structured and attainable goal. To stay on track:

• Choose a certified, Ministry-approved training provider
• Stay organized with your documents and deadlines
• Act promptly at each step of the process

If you’re ready to begin a career in investigative services, there’s no better time to start. Enrol in your private investigator training today and take your first step toward a rewarding career in Ontario’s growing security industry.