Every summer, the UK comes alive with festivals, concerts, sporting events and more, and each of these needs a strong security presence to keep attendees safe. From Glastonbury and Reading Festival to the UEFA Euros and Pride parades, demand for trained and licensed security professionals surges between May and August.
If you’re interested in working as a door supervisor or event steward this summer, the time to act is now. With limited training slots and licence processing times to consider, this guide shows you how to get your SIA security licence quickly, so you’re ready to earn and enjoy the season.
Key Steps on How to Get an SIA Security Licence for Summer 2025
- Step 1: Choose the right SIA licence for festival and event work
- Step 2: Complete first aid training before you book your SIA course
- Step 3: Book your SIA training course early
- Step 4: Apply for your SIA security licence online
- Step 5: Start working at festivals and events this summer
Step 1 – Choose the Right SIA Licence for Festival and Event Work
Your first decision is whether you need a full SIA licence or an alternative accreditation. It depends on the type of work you’re aiming for at events.
Door Supervisor vs. Event Steward – What’s the Difference?
If you want to work front-of-house at events involving alcohol, such as music festivals, nightclubs, or stadiums, you’ll need a door supervisor licence. This licence covers entry checks, conflict management, and physical intervention if needed.
On the other hand, general event steward roles (like crowd direction or assisting guests) may only require the Level 2 Award in Spectator Safety. However, this won’t allow you to work in licensed venues, so your job options will be more limited.
Why Door Supervisors Are in High Demand for Summer Events
Door Supervisors are essential at large gatherings for managing entry points, monitoring behaviour, responding to incidents, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They work closely with event organisers, emergency services, and the public. As summer brings in massive crowds, the need for qualified, licensed professionals skyrockets, especially at high-profile festivals and sporting events.
Recommended Read: Do You Need An SIA Licence For Events?
Step 2 – Complete First Aid Training Before You Book Your SIA Course
Before you can attend an SIA training course, you’ll need to complete a certified First Aid course. This step is often overlooked — and it’s one of the biggest reasons learners face delays.
Which First Aid Certificate Do You Need?
The Security Industry Authority requires you to hold an Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) certificate before you attend your SIA training. The certificate must:
- Be valid for 12 months or more at the time of your course
- Be issued by an accredited provider
- Cover essential skills like CPR, bleeding control, and the recovery position
Arriving at your course without this certificate means you won’t be allowed to attend, and you could lose your booking fee.
Can You Book a First Aid and SIA Course Together?
Yes, and it’s the easiest way to ensure compliance and avoid admin issues. Get Licensed offers course bundles that combine first aid with SIA training. These are scheduled so you can complete your first aid first, meeting the SIA’s requirements in one convenient booking.
Step 3 – Book Your SIA Training Course Early
Training centres fill up fast ahead of summer, and your licence can take weeks to process. So if you’re serious about working this season, early booking is critical.
How Long Does the SIA Course Take and What’s Included?
The full door supervisor training course takes 6 days to complete and blends practical skills with essential knowledge to get you job-ready fast. It’s designed for anyone looking to work in frontline security at festivals, events, and licensed venues.
You’ll learn how to handle conflict, deal with difficult situations calmly, and use physical intervention safely when necessary. The course also covers your legal powers and responsibilities, so you know exactly what’s expected on the job.
Event safety and incident response are a big focus, along with counter-terror awareness, especially relevant under Martyn’s Law. The goal is to prepare you for real-life scenarios, not just exams.
At the end of the course, you’ll take both written tests and practical assessments. Once you pass, your results are submitted, and you’ll be ready to apply for your SIA licence.
Best Time to Book for Summer 2025 Jobs
With summer just around the corner, the clock is ticking. If you haven’t booked your training yet, do it now. Completing your course in early June still gives you a chance to get your results and apply for your licence in time for peak event hiring, which kicks off mid to late June and runs through August. The best-paying roles go fast, so acting immediately gives you the best shot at landing a spot.
Step 4 – Apply for Your SIA Security Licence Online
Once your course is complete, it’s time to apply for your licence, and you’ll need a few documents ready to go.
Documents You’ll Need to Apply
You’ll apply directly through the SIA website. To do that, you’ll need:
- A valid photo ID (passport or full UK driving licence)
- Two recent proofs of address (dated within the last 3 months)
- Evidence of your right to work in the UK
- Your course certification
Make sure all documents match your details exactly to avoid delays.
For more guidance, check out our blog on factors that can stop you from getting an SIA licence.
How Long the SIA Licence Process Takes in 2025
In most cases, you’ll receive your licence within 3 to 6 weeks of submitting your application. You can track your status online. Remember, processing times vary, and delays are common during peak periods, so don’t leave your application too late.
Step 5 – Start Working at Festivals and Events This Summer
Once your licence arrives, you’re ready to join the action — and with so many opportunities, you can take your pick of flexible, fun, and well-paid roles.
What Security Roles Are Available During Festival Season?
Festival jobs for licensed professionals include entry control, pit security in front of the stage, backstage access guarding, VIP protection, mobile patrols, and more. These roles are critical for ensuring safety, managing crowd behaviour, and supporting emergency procedures at high-traffic events.
What You Can Expect in Your New Role
Expect fast-paced environments, long shifts (often 8–12 hours), and a mix of indoor and outdoor settings. You’ll be on your feet, interacting with large crowds, and responding quickly to incidents.
While demanding, these jobs are rewarding, offering great pay, flexible schedules, and a chance to be part of some of the UK’s biggest summer events. Many professionals use this work as a seasonal side hustle or a first step into a long-term career in the security sector.
FAQs on How to Get an SIA Security Licence for Summer 2025
Is it too late to get my SIA licence for summer 2025 jobs?
Not yet, but the window is closing fast. If you complete your training in early June, you may still be licensed in time for peak festival hiring in July and August. Many events continue to onboard staff throughout the season, so don’t delay.
Can I work while waiting for my SIA licence to arrive?
No. You must have your official SIA badge or confirmation of approval before you’re legally allowed to work in a licensed security role. Starting work without it can lead to serious legal consequences for both you and your employer.
Which summer events are still hiring SIA-licensed staff?
Events like Wireless, BST Hyde Park, Boomtown, and local Pride festivals often recruit in late June and July. Many weekend-only festivals also need last-minute licensed door supervisors, especially for night shifts and VIP areas.
What happens if I fail the SIA course assessment?
You’ll have the chance to resit the unit(s) you didn’t pass — no need to retake the whole course. If you book through Get Licensed, most courses come with free resits included (terms apply).
Are summer security jobs good for students or part-time workers?
Definitely. These roles are flexible, well-paid, and often scheduled over weekends, making them ideal for students, shift workers, and anyone looking to earn extra cash while being part of the UK’s biggest events.
What should I bring to my first security shift at a festival?
Bring your SIA badge, a valid photo ID, comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy footwear, and a hi-vis vest (if not provided). Always arrive early for your briefing and be ready to work long hours in busy environments.
Book Your SIA Training and Get Licensed With Us
The demand for security professionals peaks every summer, and the best jobs go to those who are prepared. Don’t risk missing out by delaying your training or application.
At Get Licensed, we make it easy to get trained, qualified, and working fast. With bundled first aid and SIA courses, verified instructors, and nationwide training locations, we’re the UK’s most trusted platform for security professionals.
Book your SIA door supervisor course now and get ready for a summer full of opportunities.
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