So you've completed your Alberta security guard training (ABST), or are close to completing it, and are wondering how the final government exam works. Here's everything you need to know and more to pass the exam and get your security guard licence in Alberta!
About the Exam
Participants must achieve a grade of 80% or higher to pass and be able to apply for their Security Services licence.
The exams take approximately one hour to complete.
The exam includes true/false, multiple choice, and short answer questions, therefore your proficiency in reading and writing English is important to successfully pass the exam. If you do not understand an exam question, ask the exam proctor to explain the question. They will not provide the answer.
This exam DOES NOT include any physical activity testing.
These exams take preparation to feel confident with the material. Don't expect it to be easy, or to walk in without studying and expect to pass. Take the exam as seriously, as you take your career and your safety.
The exam is administered by an official government proctor who oversees and marks the exam. They are in the room during the exam to answer questions.
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Preparing for your Exam
Read our article: 6 Ways to Prepare to Pass your Security Guard Exam
Read our article: 12 Tips for Writing your Security Guard Exam
The Day of your Exam
Students must arrive and sign in at least half an hour before your exam, whether you are taking it in-person or online.​​
You must bring the following items:
Government-Issued Picture Identification (please note that school ID or Alberta Health Care cards will NOT be accepted).
A pen
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After the Exam
Tip of Spear will e-mail a copy of your marks sheet within a week of the exam.
If you passed your exam, as of January 2023, you will be e-mailed your official training certificate directly from the Alberta Justice, 2-3 business days after the exam. Keep this in a safe place as it can take time for the Alberta Justice to issue replacements. You will then be able to apply for your Security Services licence.
Once your licence is approved, you will be emailed a temporary licence. Your permanent hardcopy licence is mailed to your physical mailing address. This can take 2-6 weeks.
After applying for your licence
Once you've applied for your licence, now is the time to work on getting a job! If you are still looking for work now is the time to get your resume updated and start applying for jobs! Make sure you also register for our employment database as we have some great local employers who are interested in hiring you!