If you’re planning to work in the UK security industry, understanding the difference between SIA licences is essential. One of the most common starting points is the security guard licence, but many learners assume this licence will qualify them for any security job. That’s not the case.
The truth is, your SIA licence determines exactly where you can work and where you can’t. This guide breaks down what the security guard licence covers, what it doesn’t, and whether upgrading to a door supervisor licence could offer better job prospects.
Quick Facts About the Security Guard Licence
- Valid for static roles such as retail, office, and warehouse security
- Not valid in licensed venues that serve alcohol
- Training does not include physical intervention
- Can only be used at unlicensed events or low-risk locations
- May limit your earning potential and job variety
- Ideal for entry-level roles and part-time opportunities
What a Security Guard Licence Allows You to Do
The SIA security guard licence is the right option if you’re aiming for static, lower-risk security roles. These positions often involve protecting property, monitoring access points, and ensuring safety in environments with limited public interaction or conflict.
Common roles covered by the security guard licence include:
- Retail security in supermarkets and department stores
- Office building reception and access control
- Construction site gatekeeping
- Warehouse security
- Industrial estate patrols
- Corporate concierge roles
In these positions, you’re typically responsible for logging visitors, conducting routine patrols, checking CCTV footage, managing alarm systems, and ensuring basic site safety. These roles are vital for many businesses, and the work is often stable and structured.
Shifts may vary—some are 9–5 while others are overnight or rotational. If you’re new to the industry or looking for your first role, this licence can be a good introduction to the responsibilities of a professional security officer. It also provides the kind of routine and consistency many entry-level officers value, particularly when building confidence in a new career.
You can find available security guard courses across the UK through Get Licensed. Check out our blog for a more thorough understanding of what security guards can do.
What the Security Guard Licence Does Not Cover
This is where most applicants get caught out. A security guard licence does not permit you to work in environments where alcohol is sold or where physical conflict is likely.
Here’s what this means:
| Covered with a Security Guard Licence | Not Covered with a Security Guard Licence |
| Retail and shopping centres | Pubs, bars, nightclubs |
| Construction sites and warehouses | Licensed music festivals or sports events |
| Corporate offices and concierge posts | Stadium security with alcohol sales |
| Static patrol duties in unlicensed locations | Transport hubs with licensed venues |
A licensed premises is any venue authorised to sell alcohol or provide regulated entertainment such as films, boxing, or wrestling. You cannot work in nightlife venues, large-scale public events, or anywhere a premises licence applies. Attempting to do so without the right licence is illegal and could lead to fines, disciplinary action, or even prosecution.
If you want to work in events or nightlife, you’ll need a door supervisor licence, which includes physical intervention and conflict management training. This licence gives you the legal protection, confidence, and capability to operate in higher-risk, fast-paced public environments.
Recommended Read: Top Security Guard Myths
Should You Upgrade to a Door Supervisor Licence?
If you’re committed to a long-term career in security or simply want more work opportunities, upgrading to a door supervisor licence is a smart career move.
What More Does It Cover?
The door supervisor licence includes everything the security guard licence does—plus a lot more. It allows you to legally work in licensed venues where alcohol is served, and includes training in physical intervention.
You’ll also be eligible for jobs in:
- Bars and nightclubs
- Events, festivals, and concerts
- Stadiums and sporting arenas
- Late-night retail and transport hubs
- High-risk public environments
This broader scope gives you more flexibility and employability across different industries. It’s often the preferred option for employers who operate in more than one type of venue or who want to retain staff who can be deployed flexibly.
Job Variety
By upgrading your licence, you open the door to more dynamic and fast-paced roles. Whether it’s event security, VIP protection at a private party, or club work in a nightlife hotspot, your skills will always be in demand. Employers often prioritise candidates with a door supervisor licence because they’re trained to handle more complex scenarios.
You’ll also be first in line for emergency deployments, last-minute shifts, and higher-paying weekend work. This flexibility alone can make a huge difference in your income and job satisfaction, especially if you’re freelancing or working via agencies.
Pay Scale
Your earning potential is higher with a door supervisor licence. Most employers pay more for staff who are trained in physical intervention and can work in a wider variety of environments.
Typical pay ranges:
- Security Guard Licence: £10.50–£12.50/hour
- Door Supervisor Licence: £12.50–£16/hour (up to £20/hour at events)
That difference quickly adds up, especially for those working weekends, evenings, or back-to-back shifts. In time, these roles also build stronger experience portfolios, which can improve your odds for promotion or further training.
Career Growth
Upgrading opens doors—literally and figuratively. With a door supervisor licence, you’re better placed for promotions to team leader, site supervisor, or security management roles. You’re also eligible for more specialist training, like close protection or CCTV operation.
Many people start with frontline roles and gradually move into supervisory or control room positions. Others progress into logistics, operations, or venue risk management. The path is wide open once you’ve got the foundational licence and real-world experience.
Recommended Read: Upgrading From Security Guard to Door Supervisor
FAQs on Security Guard Licence
What is a security guard licence?
It’s a government-issued certification that allows you to work in static, low-risk environments such as offices, shops, warehouses, and construction sites.
What qualifications do you need for a security guard?
You must complete an SIA-approved training course and have a valid Emergency First Aid at Work certificate. You also need to pass identity and criminal background checks.
How much does an SIA licence cost?
As of 2025, the SIA application fee is £184. This is separate from your course fees, which typically range from £189.99 to £250.
Is physical intervention training included in SIA security guard training?
No. Only the door supervisor training includes physical intervention.
What’s the minimum age to apply?
You must be 18 or over and legally allowed to work in the UK.
How many days is an SIA course?
The security guard training course takes 4 days. Your first aid training must be completed beforehand and usually takes one day. If you choose to upgrade to a door supervisor licence, you’ll need to complete the door supervisor training course, which spans 6 days.
How can I get an SIA licence for free?
Some job centres, councils, or government-funded schemes offer fully funded SIA training. Check with your local authority or see available discounts and funding options on the Get Licensed website.
Book the Right Security Licence with Get Licensed
If your goal is stable work in retail or office buildings, the security guard licence is a great place to start. However, if you’re serious about career growth, job variety, or higher pay, a door supervisor licence opens far more doors (pun intended).
Booking the wrong licence can cost you time, money, and job opportunities. At Get Licensed, we help people across the UK make the right choice from day one. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade, you can use our Course Finder Tool to explore the best route based on your goals and work preferences.
We work exclusively with verified, SIA-approved training providers. Our bundled packages include First Aid + SIA-approved training courses, and many options come with unlimited exam retakes and dedicated learner support. Book your security guard training today, get licensed, and get working with the support of the UK’s leading security training platform.
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