Begin Your Journey to Becoming a Security Guard in Alberta

New to Canada and facing challenges with job recognition? Alberta needs licensed security guards, and we’re here to help you get certified and start working.

Eligibility

Security guard requirements

ABST Training/Exam

Security training course

Application

Pass the ABST Exam

License

Approved & Issued

Eligibility

  • Be over 18 years old
  • Be eligible to work in Canada
  • Be fluent in English (Canadian Language Benchmark Level 5)
  • Have no criminal record
  • Have no outstanding criminal charges
  • Not be the subject of a criminal investigation

ABST Training/Exam

  • Enrol in an approved security training course
  • Score 80% or higher on the provincial final ABST exam
  • Training certificate will be delivered to you by email

Application

  • Step 1: Obtain police record check document
  • Step 2: Get a passport sized photograph date-stamped by the photographer
  • Step 3: Fill out your security guard license application form along with all supporting documentation and take it to a local registry office or mail it in; you cannot send the application by email
  • Step 4: Pay $100 licensing fee + $9 processing fee

License

  • If your application is approved, a temporary security guard license valid for 60 days will arrive by email
  • Official card will arrive in the mail at the address indicated on the application

What is Skills Tune Up?

Starting fresh in a new country shouldn’t mean starting from zero. At Skills Tune Up, we specialize in turning your international experience into a Canadian career. We provide more than just a certificate; we offer a supportive, instructor-led environment specifically designed to help newcomers navigate Alberta’s licensing requirements with confidence. Whether you’re looking for stability, community, or a professional stepping stone, we provide the tools you need to get certified and get hired.

Meet Your Instructors

At Skills Tune-Up, you aren’t just learning from a textbook—you are learning from industry leaders with decades of high-level experience in Canadian law enforcement and corporate security.

David Dubnyk

David Dubnyk

Dave retired from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in 2020 after a 30-year policing career.

Steve Genereaux

Steve Genereaux

Retired member from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police with 19 years of service
Nosherwan Kayani

Nosherwan Kayani

Seasoned professional with academic excellence and frontline leadership.  

Valerie Hokanson

Valerie Hokanson

Over a decade of experience as an adult learning professional with a focus on ecurity training .

ABST Advanced Course

$399.00 + GST

Monday, May 4, 2026 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Tuesday, May 5, 2026 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Thursday, May 7, 2026 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Friday, May 8, 2026 8:30 am to 2:30 pm
Friday, May 8, 2026 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm ABST FINAL EXAM
  • Electronic copy of student version of the Alberta Basic Security Guard Training (ABST) Program manual
  • Total of 25 hours of live instructor training over Zoom (8:30 am to 4:30 pm)
  • Instructor training starts on Zoom on May 4 and ends the morning of May 8, 2026
  • After hours student email support
  • 15 hours of supplemental readings, smaller student cohort exercises and practice exams
  • 40 hours of training in compliance with Alberta Government policy
  • 1 proctor supervised final ABST examination (afternoon of May 8, 2026)
  • 1 retake of the ABST examination will be provided if the student’s first attempt does not achieve the minimum passing grade of 80%
  • Resume review & suggested changes
  • 3 mock interview sessions & recommendations

ABST Basic Course

$299.00 + GST

Monday, May 4, 2026 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Tuesday, May 5, 2026 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Thursday, May 7, 2026 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Friday, May 8, 2026 8:30 am to 2:30 pm
Friday, May 8, 2026 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm ABST FINAL EXAM
  • Electronic copy of student version of the Alberta Basic Security Guard Training (ABST) Program manual
  • Total of 25 hours of live instructor training over Zoom (8:30 am to 4:30 pm)
  • Instructor training starts on Zoom on May 4 and ends the morning of May 8, 2026
  • After hours student email support
  • 15 hours of supplemental readings, smaller student cohort exercises and practice exams
  • 40 hours of training in compliance with Alberta Government policy
  • 1 proctor supervised final ABST examination (afternoon of May 8, 2026)
  • 1 retake of the ABST examination will be provided if the student’s first attempt does not achieve the minimum passing grade of 80%

Key Features

Small Classes with More One-on-One Support

Small virtual classes ensures that you receive attention, meaningful interaction, and better learning outcomes.

Practice Tests and Help Preparing for the ABST Exam

Practice exams and focused exam preparation helps you to build confidence and succeed on your first exam attempt.

Instructors with Law Enforcement Experience

Courses are led by experienced and knowledgeable instructors with over 40 years of law enforcement and security experience.

Meets the Required 40 Hours of Training

The program fully meets the required 40 hours of government-mandated training.

Friendly, Safe Classroom for New Canadians

A safe and welcoming virtual classroom helps you feel comfortable to learn and succeed at your own home through a computer link.

Learning Through Role-Play and Real-Life Examples

Interactive role-playing and simple stories help you to understand difficult ideas and remember them more easily.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the Government requirements for getting the Licence?

To apply, you must:

  • Be aged 18+
  • Be eligible to work in Canada
  • Have English proficiency (CLB 5 or higher)
  • Have no criminal record or ongoing investigations
  • Complete training and pass final exam (80%+)
Who is this course for?

Anyone new to Canada who meets government eligibility and wants to start a stable, rewarding job as a licensed security guard.

What’s included in the program?

Interactive classes, ABST curriculum, exam prep, help with licensing application, resume writing, and networking support.

Do I need prior security experience?

No—just a willingness to learn and meet Alberta’s licensing requirements.

What if I need to refresh my knowledge later?

You can attend a free review session up to 2 years after certification.

Why is it more expensive than alternatives?

It is a high-quality training service designed to truly prepare you for a successful career.

Is there government financial support to take this training?

Not at this time.

What happens after I pass the ABST?
  • We will help you submit your provincial license application
  • You will receive a certificate of completion
  • Free review class within 2 years after graduation