Become a licensed security guard in Alberta
Priority ONE teaches the 40-hour Alberta Basic Security Training course, the first step to your licence. Five days in downtown Edmonton, or online at your own pace.
Two ways to take the course
The same eight modules and the same provincial exam either way. In person costs a little more because you finish in one focused week, with an instructor in the room.
In person in Edmonton
$330+ GST
Five focused days in our downtown Edmonton classroom, with an instructor in the room to answer your questions.
Online, at your own pace
$130+ GST
The same eight modules and quizzes online. When your 40 hours are logged, you get your certificate and exam booking instructions.
Upcoming courses
In-person classes run Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, in downtown Edmonton, with up to 10 students. Full payment reserves your seat.
November 9–13, 2026
$330+ GST
November 23–27, 2026
$330+ GST
Online, any time
$130+ GST
How it works, from course to licence
Five steps between your first class and your first shift. We help with the ones after the course too.
With us
Take the ABST course
Complete all 8 modules, a minimum of 40 hours, in person or online.
Exam provider
Pass the provincial exam
Write the proctored provincial exam and score 80% or higher. The $60 exam fee is paid to the exam provider. Your training certificate arrives by mail within a week.
Local police
Get your police check
A criminal record check with vulnerable sector and local database searches, and a passport-size photo signed by the police service. These expire after 90 days.
Alberta Security Programs
Apply for your licence
Send the Application for Individual Licence with your documents and the $100 fee, at a registry agent or by mail. The licence is valid for 2 years.
You
Start work
Once approved you get a temporary 60-day licence, and your licence card is mailed to you.
Where your licence can take you
Security work in Alberta needs a licence, and every licence starts with ABST. These are the jobs it opens up.
Security guard
Sites, lobbies and events
Loss prevention
Stores and malls
Alarm response
Mobile patrol, often nights
Patrol dog handler
K9 security teams
Bodyguard
Close protection
What the 40 hours cover
The curriculum is set by the Government of Alberta, from your powers of arrest to report writing and emergency response.
Module 1: ABST course introduction
Introduction, How the course works, Learning outcomes, Frequently asked questions
Module 2: The private security industry
Roles and responsibilities of security professionals, Legislation and the licensing of security professionals in Alberta, Appearance and conduct for security professionals
Module 3: The Canadian legal system and security guards
Criminal law and Canada’s court system, Types of offences, The Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Use of force
Module 4: Basic security procedures
Surveillance and patrol techniques, Access control, Crowd control, Traffic control
Module 5: Communication for security guards
Communication skills, Tactical communication, Interpersonal skills
Module 6: Documentation and evidence
Note taking and reports, Observation skills, Reports as evidence, Types of evidence
Module 7: Emergency response procedures
Fire safety, Medical emergencies, Bomb threats, Alarm systems
Module 8: Health and safety for security guards
Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS), WHMIS, Security guard safety
Certified by the province
Alberta Security Programs, now part of Public Safety and Emergency Services, certified Priority ONE as a training centre for the Alberta Basic Security Training Course (ABST), under the Security Services and Investigators Act.
- Course licence
- AT000556
- Issued
- January 30, 2020
Common questions
About eligibility, the exam and your licence. See all questions.
How do I start a career in security in Alberta?
Complete an approved course (the Alberta Basic Security Training course, ABST), pass the provincial exam with 80% or higher, and apply to Alberta Security Programs for a security services licence.
Does my history affect whether I can get a licence?
Some criminal convictions can make you ineligible. Applicants need a clear police information check with a vulnerable sector search. If you’re unsure, contact Alberta Security Programs before you register.
Can I challenge the provincial exam?
If you have equivalent training or relevant experience, you may be able to challenge the exam. Alberta Security Programs decides eligibility, so contact them first.
Are there exemptions for former law enforcement?
Former law enforcement officers may be exempt from some training requirements. Check with Alberta Security Programs for your situation.
Can I work before I have a licence?
No. You need a valid security services licence to work in Alberta. If an employer hires you while you’re enrolled in an approved course, they can apply for a 30-day training licence for you.
Your first shift starts with five days in Edmonton
Register online in about three minutes, or call and we’ll answer your questions about the course, the exam and your licence.
