Thinking about a career in security? Before you start, it helps to know exactly what it’ll cost. The short answer: an SIA licence costs £204, whichever type you need. But the licence fee is only part of the picture — there’s training and, for some roles, first aid too. This guide breaks down the real, total cost so there are no surprises.
(Quick note: an “SIA badge” and an “SIA licence” are the same thing. The badge is just the physical card you’re issued once your licence is approved. For a more thorough explanation, check out our SIA licence guide.)
Key Takeaways
- Every SIA licence costs £204 and lasts 3 years (vehicle immobiliser licences, Northern Ireland only, cost £204 and last 1 year).
- The fee is the same for Door Supervisor, Security Guard, CCTV and Close Protection licences — what differs is the course cost.
- A second licence can be £102 (50% off), but only if you apply for both on the same day, on the same form (rule changed 1 June 2026).
- Budget for the full cost to get working: course + £204 licence + first aid (for DS/SG).
- The licence fee is non-refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful — so get your application right the first time.
How Much Is an SIA Licence?
Here’s the key thing up front: every SIA badge costs the same, irrespective of which type you apply for. Door supervisor, security guard, CCTV, close protection: all £204, all valid for three years. (The one exception is the Northern Ireland vehicle immobiliser licence; still £204, but valid for one year.) The fee rose from £184 to £204 on 1 April 2026, when the SIA ended a £20 rebate it had applied since 2020.
To obtain any SIA licence, you must complete the relevant SIA licence courses. These courses are designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills required for your chosen role. Course fees vary depending on the training provider and the type of course.
So the real question isn’t which licence costs more; they’re identical. It’s which course you need to get it. That’s where your cost actually differs:
| Training | What it covers | Typical course cost* | First aid needed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Door Supervisor | Pubs, clubs, events (plus guarding) | ~£260–£320 | Yes (EFAW) |
| Security Guard | Retail, corporate and static sites | ~£220–£280 | Yes (EFAW) |
| CCTV (Public Space Surveillance) | Monitoring CCTV in public spaces | ~£250–£300 | No |
| Close Protection | Bodyguard / close protection work | ~£2,200+ | Yes (Level 3) |
*The licence fee is £204 for each of these; only the course cost changes. Course prices vary by dates and locations, so check our course finder for current figures.
Types of SIA Licences and Their Costs
As we’ve already established above, there are several types of SIA licences, each catering to different roles within the security industry. If you’re unsure which licence you need or what your budget would cover, here’s a more detailed insight into what each licence looks like:
SIA Door Supervisor Licence Cost
The SIA Door Supervisor Licence is one of the most popular licences. It allows you to work in various roles, including door supervision at events, bars, and nightclubs, as well as security guarding. If you plan to work at premises where alcohol is sold, this is the licence you will need.
- Cost: £204
- Validity: 3 years
- Requirements: Completion of a door supervisor training course, a first aid qualification, and a criminal record check.
SIA Security Guard Licence Cost
The SIA Security Guard Licence is suitable for those looking to work in static guarding, retail security, and similar roles. For people just starting out in the security industry, this is the quickest, easiest route.
- Cost: £204
- Validity: 3 years
- Requirements: Completion of a security guard training course and a criminal record check.
SIA CCTV Licence Cost
The SIA CCTV Licence, also known as the Public Space Surveillance (PSS) licence, is required for those who operate CCTV systems in public spaces.
- Cost: £204
- Validity: 3 years
- Requirements: Completion of a CCTV operator training course and a criminal record check.
SIA Close Protection Licence Cost
For those interested in a more specialised role, the SIA Close Protection Licence is the way to go. This licence is necessary for bodyguards and other close protection operatives.
- Cost: £204
- Validity: 3 years
- Requirements: Completion of a close protection training course and a criminal record check.
Applying for an SIA Licence
Once you’ve completed the necessary training, you can apply for your SIA licence. The application process is straightforward:
- Create an SIA account on the official SIA website.
- Submit your application after filling out the form and uploading the required documents.
- Pay the fee (£204).
- Complete a criminal record check to ensure you meet the necessary standards.
SIA Licence Renewal Cost and Process
An SIA licence is valid for three years. Before it expires, you’ll need to renew it to continue working legally. Here’s what you need to know about renewing your SIA licence.
When to Renew Your SIA Licence
You should start the licence renewal process about four months before your current licence expires. This gives you ample time to complete any necessary training and avoid any disruptions to your employment.
Renewal Cost
The application fee for a renewal is the same as for a new licence: £204. If you’re renewing two licenses at once, you may even be eligible for a 50% discount on the application fee. This means you’ll be paying £102 instead of £204, but you must meet certain conditions.
The second licence rule changed on 1 June 2026. To get the discount, both of these must be true:
- You apply for both licences on the same day
- You apply for both on the same application form
That’s it. You no longer qualify just because you already hold a licence, and there’s no longer any condition about how much time is left on it. Apply for the second licence later, and you’ll pay the full £204.
Renewal Process
- Log into Your SIA Account: Use the same account you created when you first applied.
- Complete the Renewal Application: Provide any updated information and submit the required documents.
- Pay the Renewal Fee: The cost remains £204.
- Submit a New Criminal Record Check: As with the initial application, this ensures you continue to meet industry standards.
Recommended Reading: SIA Licence Renewal Checklist
Additional Costs to Consider
While the cost of the licence itself is a significant part of your expenses, there are other costs to keep in mind:
- Training Course Fees: Vary depending on the provider and the course.
- First Aid Course Qualification: Required for certain licences like the Door Supervisor Licence.
- Criminal Record Check: Typically included in the application fee but can vary.
Benefits of Holding an SIA Licence
Investing in an SIA licence opens up numerous opportunities in the security industry. Not only does it make you legally compliant, but it also enhances your employability. Employers prefer hiring licensed individuals because it assures them that you have met the rigorous standards set by the SIA.
Career Progression
Holding an SIA licence can lead to career advancement. For instance, starting as a door supervisor can pave the way to higher roles such as a security manager or a close protection officer.
Job Security
The security industry is always in demand. With an SIA licence, you are better positioned to secure and maintain employment in a stable and growing field.
Get Your SIA Licence Now
Understanding the costs associated with obtaining and renewing an SIA licence is essential for anyone looking to enter or continue a career in the security industry. From the SIA badge cost to the specific requirements of each type, this guide aims to provide clear and concise information to help you make informed decisions.
Remember, the investment in your SIA licence is an investment in your future. Whether you’re looking to apply for an SIA licence, renew your current one, or explore various SIA security courses, staying informed is the key to success. For more detailed information and to start your application, visit the official SIA website or trusted resources like Get Licensed.
By understanding and planning for these costs, you can take a confident step towards a rewarding career in the security industry. Good luck!
FAQs
£204 for a single licence, valid for three years. It’s the same fee for Door Supervisor, Security Guard, CCTV and Close Protection.
No. The £204 is non-refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful. Make sure your application is complete and accurate before you pay.
Budget for the course (around £220–£280), your £204 licence fee, and Emergency First Aid at Work (around £100–£130) — so roughly £525–£600 all-in. A door supervisor route costs out a little more.
No, the £204 fee is the same for everyone, whatever your situation. But if you’re unemployed, you may be able to get your training funded for free, which is where most of the saving is. It’s worth checking the free and funded SIA training routes before you pay.
