Starting a career in the UK security industry is an exciting step, and choosing your SIA licence is one of the first decisions that will shape your journey. Each licence opens the door to different types of security roles, so understanding your options helps you move confidently towards the jobs and career path you want.
Think of your SIA licence as the key that unlocks new opportunities. The right key can take you exactly where you want to go. This guide walks you through the main SIA licence types—what each one is for, how much it costs, and what you can earn—so you can choose with confidence and start your security career on strong foundations.
For a complete overview of the SIA licensing process, requirements, and application steps, check out our complete SIA licence guide.
Key Takeaways
- There are four main types of SIA licences: Door Supervisor, Security Guard, CCTV Operator, and Close Protection
- Door Supervisor is the most versatile licence, allowing you to work in any security environment, including licensed premises
- All frontline licences require Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) certification
- Training duration ranges from 3 days (CCTV) to 6 days (Door Supervisor) for standard licences
- Total costs range from approximately £504 to £614 for standard licences, with Close Protection significantly higher
- You can apply for multiple licences with a 50% discount on additional licence fees
- Earning potential varies from £12.21-£25/hour depending on licence type and role
Frontline vs. Non-Frontline Licences
First, it’s helpful to understand that SIA licences are split into two main categories: frontline and non-frontline.
Frontline licences are for people who will be carrying out security activities themselves. This includes roles like guarding premises, monitoring CCTV, or working as a door supervisor.
Non-frontline licences are for those who manage or supervise security staff but don’t perform frontline duties themselves.
This article focuses on the four main frontline SIA licence types, as this is where most people begin their security journey.
Essential Requirement: Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW)
Before we dive into the specific licence types, there’s one requirement that applies to all frontline SIA licences: you must hold a valid Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) certificate.
This is a one-day course that teaches you how to respond to common workplace emergencies.
Most training providers, including Get Licensed, offer EFAW alongside your main security training, which saves time and ensures you have everything you need to apply for and get your SIA licence. The EFAW certificate costs approximately £99.99 and is valid for three years.
The 4 Main Types of SIA Licences
Let’s dive into the specifics of each licence, what it allows you to do, who it’s best for, and what it costs.
| Licence Type | Training Duration | Total Cost | Earning Potential | Best For | Key Advantage |
| Door Supervisor | 6 days | £534-£634 | £12.21-£23/hour | Beginners, career flexibility | Can work anywhere, including licensed premises |
| Security Guard | 4 days | £474-£574 | £12.21-£18/hour | Those avoiding nightlife security roles | Shorter training, focused on static guarding |
| CCTV Operator | 3 days | £504-£604 | £13-£20/hour | Tech-focused individuals | Control room-based work, less physical |
| Close Protection | 16-19 days | £2,278+ | £15-£40+/hour | Experienced professionals | High earning potential, specialist roles |
The Door Supervisor Licence
If there’s one licence that offers the most flexibility, it’s the Door Supervisor licence. Often called the “Swiss Army knife” of the security world, it allows you to work in the widest range of environments.
What can you do with it?
A Door Supervisor licence allows you to work in any setting, including licensed premises like pubs, bars, and nightclubs where alcohol is served. Your duties can range from managing entry and checking IDs to handling conflict situations and patrolling the venue. Crucially, this licence also covers all the duties of a security guard.
Where can you work?
- Bars, pubs, and nightclubs
- Events and festivals (learn more about working at events with an SIA licence)
- Retail stores and shopping centres
- Corporate offices
- Construction sites
Training & cost:
- Training duration: 6 days
- Training cost: £249.99
- EFAW certificate: £99.99
- SIA licence fee: £184
- Total cost: £533.98 – £633.98 (depending on package)
- Earning potential: £12.21 – £23 per hour
Who is it for?
This licence is the perfect starting point for anyone new to the industry. If you’re not yet sure which area of security you want to specialise in, the Door Supervisor licence keeps all your options open. It’s the most popular choice for a reason—it makes you highly employable.
If you’re wondering if an SIA licence is worth it, this licence offers the best return on investment. Check out our guide on how long it takes to get an SIA licence for the complete timeline.
The Security Guard Licence
The Security Guard licence is designed for security professionals who work in environments that don’t involve the sale of alcohol.
What can you do with it?
This licence allows you to carry out “manned guarding” activities. This includes protecting property, patrolling sites, and controlling access to buildings. However, the key difference is that you cannot work in a venue where alcohol is the primary offering.
Where can you work?
- Corporate offices and reception areas
- Retail stores (that are not licensed to sell alcohol for consumption on-site)
- Warehouses and distribution centres
- Construction sites
- Schools and hospitals
Training & cost:
- Training duration: 4 days
- Training cost: £189.99
- EFAW certificate: £99.99
- SIA licence fee: £184
- Total cost: £473.98 – £573.98
- Earning potential: £12.21 – £18 per hour
Who is it for?
If you are certain that you don’t want to work in the nightlife scene and prefer a role in a corporate or retail environment, this licence could be a good fit. The training is slightly shorter than the Door Supervisor course, which can be appealing to some. However, be aware that this licence limits your job opportunities compared to the Door Supervisor licence.
The CCTV Operator Licence
For those who are more tech-savvy and detail-oriented, the CCTV Operator licence offers a different path in the security industry. This licence is for professionals who monitor public spaces using surveillance equipment.
What can you do with it?
As a licensed CCTV operator, your job is to monitor surveillance systems, spot and report suspicious behaviour, gather evidence, and work with law enforcement. It’s a role that requires high levels of concentration and a sharp eye for detail.
Where can you work?
- Centralised CCTV control rooms
- Shopping centres
- Airports and transport hubs
- Local council surveillance centres
Training & cost:
- Training duration: 3 days
- Training cost: £219.99
- EFAW certificate: £99.99
- SIA licence fee: £184
- Total cost: £503.98 – £603.98
- Earning potential: £13 – £20 per hour
Who is it for?
If you prefer working in a control room environment rather than being on your feet, this could be the ideal role for you. Many security professionals choose to add a CCTV licence to their Door Supervisor licence to maximise their job prospects—more on dual licensing below.
The Close Protection Licence
At the premium end of the industry is the Close Protection licence. This is for highly-trained professionals who protect individuals from potential threats. It’s the most demanding licence to obtain and requires a significant level of commitment.
What can you do with it?
This licence allows you to work as a bodyguard, protecting VIPs, celebrities, executives, or other high-profile individuals. The role involves detailed risk assessments, planning safe travel routes, and providing physical protection.
Where can you work?
- As a personal bodyguard for a specific individual
- As part of a larger security detail for a family or organisation
- In high-risk environments, both in the UK and abroad
Training & cost:
- Training duration: 16-19 days
- Training cost: £1,994
- EFAW certificate: £99.99
- SIA licence fee: £184
- Total cost: £2,277.99+
- Earning potential: £15 – £40+ per hour (up to £100+ per hour for international or high-risk assignments)
Who is it for?
This is a specialist field. Most people who enter close protection have a background in the military or police, or have extensive experience in other areas of security. The training is intense, and the cost is significantly higher, but so is the earning potential.
For a detailed breakdown of all costs involved, check our guide on how much an SIA security licence costs.
Should You Get Multiple Licences?
Here’s something many people don’t realise: you can hold more than one SIA licence at the same time. In fact, many security professionals choose to get dual licences to increase their job opportunities and earning potential.
The most popular combination is Door Supervisor + CCTV Operator. This allows you to work in a wide range of roles, from frontline door work to control room operations, making you significantly more employable.
The good news? If you apply for more than one licence, the SIA offers a 50% discount on additional licence fees. So instead of paying £184 for each licence, you’d pay £184 for the first and £92 for each additional licence.
Example cost for dual licensing:
- Door Supervisor training: £249.99
- CCTV training: £219.99
- EFAW: £99.99
- First licence fee: £184
- Second licence fee: £92
- Total: £845.97 (compared to £1,137.96 if purchased separately)
If you’re serious about maximising your career options in security, dual licensing is a smart strategic move.
Which SIA Licence Should You Choose?
For the vast majority of people starting out, the Door Supervisor licence is the clear winner. It provides the most job opportunities and the greatest flexibility. Even if you plan to work as a security guard, having a Door Supervisor licence means you’re not limiting your future options.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your career goals, budget, and the type of work environment you prefer. But if you want to give yourself the best possible start in the security industry, the Door Supervisor licence is the most strategic choice.
What Happens After You Choose Your Licence?
Once you’ve decided which licence type is right for you, here’s what you need to do:
- Book your training course: Find a Get Licensed training centre near you and book your course dates
- Complete your training: Attend the course, pass your exams, and receive your qualification certificate
- Apply for your SIA licence: Submit your application through the official SIA portal (our step-by-step guide to applying for your SIA licence walks you through this)
- Wait for approval: The SIA typically processes applications within 4-6 weeks, with the fastest cases completing in as little as 3 weeks, but you cannot work whilst waiting for your licence
- Start working: Once your licence arrives, you’re legally qualified to work in your chosen security role
To avoid delays, make sure you’re aware of the common SIA licence application mistakes and can avoid them when applying for your licence.
Important: Licence Validity and Renewal
Your SIA licence is valid for three years from the date of issue. After this period, you’ll need to renew it to continue working legally in the security industry.
From April 2025, all licence renewals require completion of refresher training. Learn more about the new SIA licence renewal training requirements and find out if you can renew your SIA security licence online.
It’s crucial to keep your licence valid and avoid any issues that could lead to suspension or revocation of your licence. Always carry your licence when working to remain compliant.
Ready to Get Started?
Now that you understand the different SIA licence types, the costs involved, and the earning potential, it’s time to take action. The UK security industry is growing, with thousands of job opportunities available for qualified professionals.
Whether you choose the versatile Door Supervisor licence, the specialised CCTV Operator licence, or decide to pursue dual licensing, Get Licensed is here to support you every step of the way.
Explore our range of SIA-approved training courses and book your course today. Your new career in security is just a few steps away.
