To obtain a security license in British Columbia, individuals must complete three mandatory training components totaling 56 hours of instruction. These courses form the required foundation for all applicants before they can submit their license application to the BC Security Programs Division.

The mandatory training requirements include:

1. Basic Security Training (BST): A 40-hour foundational course issued by the Justice Institute of BC (JIBC). It covers legal authorities, professional ethics, report writing, patrolling, and emergency procedures.
2. Use-of-Force Training: An 8-hour module provided by the JIBC or another approved provider. This training focuses on the legal parameters of physical intervention, verbal de-escalation, and basic control techniques.
3. Emergency First Aid: An 8-hour certification course that must be completed through a WorkSafeBC-approved provider. This ensures guards can manage medical emergencies, CPR, and wound care.

While these three components are the non-negotiable prerequisites for a BC Security Worker License, some security firms or specialized roles may require advanced certifications, such as Advanced Security Training (AST) or specialized Fire Watch and Hotel Security training.