The Security Industry Authority (SIA) regulates the entire private security industry in the UK. It functions as an independent body and it oversees the licensing and regulations individuals and companies need to work in the industry.
That means that you need to get an SIA licence if you plan on being a part of the UK private security industry. To get this, you need to complete a SIA training course and then apply for the licence directly through the SIA government website.
Who Needs an SIA Licence?
Now, the type of SIA licence course you need to take will depend on your role within the private security industry. To make sure you book the right security licence course for you, here’s a breakdown of the most common SIA licences:
- Door supervisor: Door supervisors need a licence to work in licensed premises such as bars, clubs, and pubs. Why? Because they’re responsible for checking IDs, crowd control, and maintaining security and order. If you need to renew your door supervisor licence, you need this top-up SIA licence course!
- Close protection: Those who work as personal security or bodyguards need a licence because they’re responsible for the security and protection of celebrities, VIPs, or business leaders.
- Security guarding: Security guards in any setting must have a licence because they are responsible of maintain order and security, operating security equipment, responding to incidents, and patrolling. If it’s time to renew your licence, click here.
- CCTV operator: CCTV system operators also need a licence because they are responsible for monitoring live footage to identify security incidents and suspicious activity.
- Cash and Valuables in Transit: CIVT operators need a licence because they transport money and valuables of all kinds. They are responsible for performing proper cash and valuable accounting, planning the transportation and carrying it out perfectly, and protecting the items while in transit.
How to Get an SIA Licence
To get an SIA licence, you need to have a clean criminal record and pass the security licence course that’s relevant to your job. We already discussed the most common types of courses available, so make sure you book the course that relates to you.
As an individual, it’s very important to hold the SIA licence that your role requires. For example, if you’re working as a security guard at a supermarket, you need a security guard licence.
Once you obtain the licence, you have to get it renewed every 3 years. That process will require proof of continuing personal development. If you’re a door supervisor or security officer, you will have to complete the top up SIA licence course if you want to renew your licence.
Get Licensed will make the entire process easier! The GuardPass App for security workers is exactly what you need to find the right SIA licence course, as well as jobs, contacts, and tools to help you thrive in the Security industry. Download it on Android or iOS and get started!
