Do SIA Reject Applications due to Photos?

There are several things you will need if you want the Security Industry Authority to issue you a licence. It doesn’t matter if you have chosen to be a door supervisor, a security guard, CCTV operator, emergency first aid responder or close protection bodyguard.

There is a large list of requirements that must be met before the SIA will issue you your shiny new licence. Of course you will need the proper training. That goes without saying. That is what all of the security industry training courses are for, but there are also a host of other things that you will need as well.

Smile For the Camera!

One of the things that the SIA requires is a current photograph. The photograph has to be recent, and it has to be good. Don’t try to use a photograph that is 5-10 years old. That would just be silly. If you want to get your licence, and you know you do, then you should follow these tips for your photograph.

Colour Means Everything

If the only photograph you can find is black and white, then you will need to head out to a local photographer to get a new one because black and white photographs are not allowed. The photograph that you submit has to be a full colour photograph.

What About the Photograph Size?

The SIA does have size requirements when it comes to the photograph you send in. Don’t send in a huge family photograph. The suggested photograph size is 45mm x 35mm. Anything smaller or larger could give you problems.

What About the Quality of the Photograph?

The photograph that you send in with your application has to be a good high quality photograph. This is the photograph that will be used on your new SIA licence. If everything else looks good with your application, then the SIA will print the photograph you sent on your licence, so quality does make a huge difference.

Here are some things to consider when it comes to quality concerns with your photograph. The photograph has to look like you. If it does not resemble you, then there will be problems. This may seem like common sense, but some people have used photographs that just don’t look anything like them, and as a result their applications have been rejected. Your photograph must also be properly focused and clear. It must be a high quality photograph.

Don’t forget to include your unique application number. If you don’t have one, then your name and date of birth must be on the back of the photograph.

Here Are Some Things to Avoid!

In order to fully understand the type and quality of photograph you should be sending with your application, it is important to know what to avoid. Here are the most common mistakes that people make when submitting their photograph with their SIA application.

Avoid using a photograph where you are too close to the camera. You should be able to see your full head, and even your shoulders. If the photograph you have chosen cuts off portions of your head, your application will be rejected.

Avoid using photographs where the background is too dark. The background should be a nice contrasting colour. White is the preferred colour, but soft blues will work as well. Just avoid really dark colours.

The overall image can’t be too dark either. Avoid a photograph that has a lot of shadows or dark areas. If it is difficult to make out your facial features, then the photograph is too dark. Choose another one.

The same could be said of a photograph that is too light or bright. If the photograph is overexposed or washed out, your SIA Licence application could be rejected.

Don’t wear anything on your head but a good hairstyle. Avoid wearing a hat. Your application will be rejected. Don’t wear any sunglasses in your photograph either. Your photograph should be a clear and concise representation of you.

The Easy Foolproof Way to Submit Your Photograph

Now that you know all of the right and wrong photograph choices, you may be wondering where you are going to get the perfect photograph. You don’t have to go out and hire a photographer. This would just be a waste of time and money.

The easiest and simplest way to get the perfect photograph is to visit your local UK post office. They will be able to take a perfect photograph that fits all of the requirements for your SIA licence. While you are there, you can go ahead and complete your application as well!

From this point, it is just a matter of waiting for your application and your perfect photograph to be approved!

How to work in the security sector

If you are interested in working in the security sector, whether it be as a Door Supervisor, Security Guard or CCTV Operative, you will need to obtain a SIA Licence.

To obtain a SIA Licence, you will need to complete a course. Once you have completed the course, will you then be able to apply for an SIA Licence and work in the security sector.

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