Licence Details: Answering your Top Get Licensed Queries:

Licence Details: A Guide from SIA Training to Real-World Job Opportunities

Hello, Get Licensed community!

Licence details are essential for anyone looking to venture into the security industry. At Get Licensed, our mission is to offer clear guidance and support to our budding security professionals. With numerous queries surfacing on our social media platforms recently, this blog aims to address the most frequently asked questions and assist you in navigating the security field.

1.  CCTV Studies in the UK Licensing information

Question: Can I study CCTV in the UK?

Answer: Yes, you can! The UK has many CCTV courses, and Get Licensed is here to help. We offer a clear, hands-on course that teaches you the basics: how to use CCTV equipment, understand the rules, and keep places safe. By the end, you’ll be ready to watch over places like shops, offices, or public areas with confidence. 

See more information about the CCTV course here:

2.  The Versatility of Door Security Badge

Question: With a Door Security Badge, can I work in buildings like the Job Centre? So, if I opt for CPO, can I still work as a door supervisor or in a Job Centre building?

Answer: Yes, with a Door Security Badge, you can work not only in places like the Job Centre but also in pubs, bars, and other establishments. It offers more versatility than a standard Security Guard licence. If you’re considering a step up, a Close Protection Officer (CPO) role is a great choice.

By becoming a CPO, you can work in all the same roles as a Door Supervisor, and even more. Whether it’s Door Supervision or a more specialised CPO role, both badges provide you with a broad range of job opportunities in the security sector.

Introduction to the UK’s Security Industry Landscape

The security industry in the UK has seen significant growth over the years, with a consistent demand for skilled personnel to maintain public safety. Whether it’s monitoring vast spaces through CCTV cameras or maintaining order in public areas as door supervisors, the roles are diverse and crucial.

3.  Door Supervisor Exam and Learning

Question: Do I have to take an exam for a door supervisor? Where can I learn the course materials? Are these questions relevant to that?

Answer: Yes, to become a certified door supervisor, you’ll need to pass an exam. Get Licensed offers comprehensive courses to prepare you. The questions in the exam cover the content taught during the course. You can practise mock exams and see other learning materials on the GuardPass app. 

4.  Background Checks for Security Jobs

Question: Do I have to provide a background check? I mean the DBS?

Answer: Absolutely. A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is essential for most security roles to guarantee public safety. When you apply for your SIA licence, the SIA will conduct this background check to ensure safety. The cost of the DBS is included in the licence fee, which is £184.

5.  About Top-Up Security Courses

Question: Considering a Meet & Greet Role in Gatehouse & Warehouse?

Do I need a top-up security course for this role?

Answer: Indeed, you can renew an expired SIA badge. However, it’s essential to follow the SIA’s renewal guidelines promptly. To make certain that security personnel remain up-to-date with industry standards and practices, the SIA has introduced top-up training courses.

Additionally, we design these courses to refresh your knowledge, furthermore give you the latest updates, and also teach crucial first aid training.

Introducing Our New Top-Up Courses at Get Licensed

At Get Licensed, we offer three primary top-up courses, and each is designed for different SIA licences to uphold our commitment to quality training.

SIA Top-Up Training for Close Protection: This course emphasises advanced protection techniques, risk assessment, and ensuring the safety of VIPs or other individuals requiring close protection services. Although, with the changing global scenarios, the role of a close protection officer has evolved, and this top-up training ensures you’re in line with these changes.

SIA Top-Up Training for Security Guard Licence: The realm of general security sees continuous changes in terms of technology, risk scenarios, and also in legal implications. This course revisits essential security guard protocols and introduces new industry-recommended practices. 

SIA Top-Up Training for Door Supervisors: Initially, Door Supervisors are usually at the front-line of venue security, dealing with everything from unruly patrons to emergencies. That’s why this refresher course is essential. It helps you handle these challenges, introduces you to new legal guidelines, and emphasises the importance of first aid in the training.

Why These Top-Up Courses?

   Over the years, there has been a growing emphasis on ensuring that security personnel not only have theoretical knowledge but also practical skills, especially in first aid. Indeed, given the nature of security jobs, there are instances where first aid skills can be a lifesaver. Furthermore, these top-up courses equip all security personnel with these invaluable skills, enabling them to act swiftly in emergencies.

   If you’re looking to renew your licence or simply want to stay updated in your role, these top-up courses are the way to go. They will not only enhance your skill set but also ensure you’re compliant with the latest SIA regulations and guidelines.

6.  On Licence Renewal

Question: My SIA door supervisor badge expired 6 months ago. Can I still renew the licence?

Answer: Yes, you can renew an expired SIA badge. However, you need to check with SIA regarding the timeline. You most likely are able to renew the licence within one year after the licence has expired. It’s essential to follow the SIA’s renewal guidelines promptly. You can also seek assistance through Get Licensed’s Top-up courses.

7.  Choosing Between the Door Supervisor and CCTV Operator Courses

Question: I can only afford one SIA course right now. Which is better: Door Supervisor or CCTV operator?

Answer: Both have their advantages. Door Supervisors often have more direct interaction and it can also help you work as security guard with having the same Door Supervisor licence, while CCTV operators monitor premises. Consider where your interest lies and where you see yourself working.

Navigating Through Courses: Which One is for You?

Given the several courses available, choosing the right one can be daunting however, each course serves a unique purpose:

CCTV Operator: firstly, its best suited for those who prefer a behind-the-scenes role, focusing on surveillance and monitoring.

Secondly, Door Supervisor: Ideal for those who want a more front-facing role, interacting directly with the public and ensuring their safety. Furthermore, the Door Supervisor Licence gives you more work opportunities.

8.  On Applying for Multiple Licences

Question: I just passed the door supervisor course and plan to do the CCTV course. Should I wait to apply? Will I get both courses on the same SIA licence, or do I need separate ones?

Answer: After you’ve finished your door supervisor course, you can apply for that specific licence immediately. If you later complete the CCTV course, you’ll need to apply for an additional licence, as each course has its own respective licence.

Here’s a financial tip: The first SIA Licence costs £184. But if you decide to get another licence, it’s discounted to just £92.

Why Get Both Licences?

• Broadened Skills: Firstly, by completing both courses, you get a well-rounded view of the security sector. Consequently, this knowledge makes you adaptable and efficient in varied roles.

• More Job Choices: Secondly, two qualifications mean more job openings. Employers value versatility, and thus, with both licences, you fit a wider range of job descriptions.

• Stand Out: Thirdly, in a sea of candidates with one qualification, having two makes you stand out, showcasing your dedication to the field.

• Role Flexibility: Whether it’s active security on-site or surveillance via CCTV, you have the flexibility to choose or even combine roles in some scenarios.

In short, investing in both licences can significantly boost your career trajectory in the security industry.

9.  Job Prospects Post Licensing

Question: After obtaining the licence, how quickly can I get a job?

Answer: The security industry is always in demand. With a valid licence and proactive job hunting, many find positions relatively quickly. Therefore, if you’re looking to step into the security world, it’s a valuable tool to have in your arsenal. furthermore, Get Licensed offers job opportunities through its dedicated hiring app, ‘GuardPass‘, making it easier for you to get hired

The Job Market: Opportunities and Growth

Once you’re certified in security, a world of job choices opens up:

• Various Job Settings: You can work in a variety of places! This could include lively events, office buildings, or busy shops.

• Always in Demand: Indeed, the good news is that there’s always a demand for security professionals. As new places open, they look for people just like you.

• Climb the Ladder: Start with one job. Later, you can lead a team or even explore cybersecurity. The choice is yours!

• Teach and Guide: Been in the field for a while? Consider training newcomers. Share what you know and help shape the future.

In short, security jobs are about more than just the role. They offer growth, variety, and a chance to really make a difference. Ready to dive in?

10.   Validity of Top-Up Training

Question: Does top-up training have an expiry date?

Answer: Certainly, the certificate has a lifespan of 3 years, after which a renewal is necessary. It’s vital to monitor its validity and ensure timely renewal to stay compliant.

The Renewal Process and Its Significance

In conclusion, Thank you for being a dedicated member of the Get Licensed community. We’re always on hand to support and guide you as you navigate your security career. If you ever have more questions or need insights, we’re just a message away!