Begin Your Journey to Becoming a Security Guard in Alberta
New to Canada and facing challenges with finding meaningful work? Alberta needs licensed security guards, and we’re here to help you get certified and start working with our online Alberta Basic Security Training (ABST) program.
Eligibility
Security guard requirements
ABST Training/Exam
Alberta Basic Security Training course
Application
Pass the ABST Exam
License
Approved & Issued
Eligibility to Enroll in Our Alberta Basic Security Training (ABST) Program
- 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
- Enroll in an approved Alberta Basic Security Training (ABST) course
- Score 80% or higher on the provincial final ABST exam
- Training certificate will be delivered to you by email
Applying for Your Security Guard License
- 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
Receiving Your 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 with our online Alberta Basic Security Training (ABST) program. We provide more than just a certificate; we offer a supportive, instructor-led environment specifically designed to help newcomers navigate Alberta’s security guard 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. Our instructors have been carefully selected to provide the best possible education for your Alberta Basic Security Training (ABST) program.Â
David Dubnyk
Dave retired from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in 2020 after a 30-year policing career.
Steve Genereaux
Retired member from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police with 19 years of service
Nosherwan Kayani
Seasoned professional with academic excellence and frontline leadership. Â
Valerie Hokanson
Over a decade of experience as an adult learning professional with a focus on security training .
Alberta Basic Security Training (ABST) - Advanced Course
$399.00 + GST
- Electronic copy of student version of the Alberta Basic Security 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
Alberta Basic Security Training (ABST) - Basic Course
$299.00 + GST
- Electronic copy of student version of the Alberta Basic Security 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 class sizes in our online program ensure 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
Our program fully meets the required 40 hours of government-mandated training for Alberta Basic Security 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.
Alberta Basic Security Training - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the Government requirements for getting a Security Guard 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 Skills Tune Up 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 Alberta Basic Security Training (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