Getting your security SIA licence is the first big step towards building a stable and rewarding career in the UK’s private security industry. Whether you’re aiming to become a door supervisor, security guard, or CCTV operator, having the correct licence isn’t optional — it’s a legal requirement.
But while many applicants move through the process without issue, others hit frustrating roadblocks that delay or even derail their SIA licence application. These challenges are usually avoidable if you know what to look out for. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common reasons applicants are refused or delayed, and how to make sure you’re not one of them.
Key Points That Could Stop You From Getting a Security SIA Licence
- You must meet basic age and work eligibility requirements.
- Valid ID and documentation are mandatory — no shortcuts.
- The wrong training or missing first aid can delay approval.
- Certain criminal offences may result in a licence refusal.
- Health conditions may require extra documentation.
- Application errors or dishonest declarations can lead to rejections.
Meet the Basic Eligibility Criteria First
Before you even think about enrolling in a training course, make sure you tick the most basic boxes: age, right to work, and proper documentation.
Age and Right to Work in the UK
To be eligible for a security SIA licence, you must be at least 18 years old. There are no exceptions to this rule, and the SIA will verify your age using official records.
Just as important is your legal right to work in the UK. This can include UK citizens, settled status holders, and some visa holders. The SIA conducts legal right-to-work checks as part of the standard vetting process, so if your status is unclear or temporary, it could delay or block your application.
Identity and Address Documentation
This is where many applicants slip up. Your application must include valid and matching ID documents — one with a photo (such as a passport or UK driving licence) and two separate documents proving your current address. These must be recent (within the last three months), clearly legible, and consistent with your other paperwork.
Even small inconsistencies — like name spellings, expired ID, or blurry document scans — can lead to processing delays or outright rejection. If you’re unsure, Get Licensed offers guidance on what counts as valid documentation and how to prepare it properly.
Complete the Right SIA Training and First Aid Course
Training is a core part of the licence application, but not just any course will do. The SIA only recognises specific qualifications delivered by approved training providers.
Why You Must Choose an SIA-Approved Course
If you book a course that isn’t SIA-approved, you won’t be able to apply for your security licence, and the money you spent won’t be refunded. That’s why it’s essential to book with trusted platforms like Get Licensed, where every course listed meets SIA standards and is delivered by verified providers.
There are different courses for different security licence types. For example, if you want to work in pubs, clubs, or events, you’ll need door supervisor training. If you prefer retail or office-based roles, security guard training may be more appropriate. Control room jobs require CCTV operator training. Find the best fit for your goals before you book a course.
First Aid Certificate Requirements
Since April 2021, holding a valid Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) certificate has been a mandatory requirement for most SIA training courses. The catch? Your certificate must be valid on the first day of your training, not just the exam or application date.
Many candidates mistakenly assume they can complete the first aid part after the main course, and get turned away on training day. To avoid this, consider booking a training bundle that includes first aid through Get Licensed, which guarantees your certification will be valid and compliant.
Be Honest About Your Criminal Record
The SIA runs a detailed background check on every applicant, including criminal history. But having a record doesn’t automatically mean you’re disqualified.
How the SIA Assesses Criminal Convictions
Each case is considered individually. The SIA looks at the nature of the offence, how long ago it occurred, and whether it’s considered spent under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act. Minor or older convictions may not affect your application at all, especially if you can demonstrate rehabilitation and stability. However, offences related to dishonesty, violence, or public safety are taken very seriously.
As of March 2025, the SIA has proposed new changes to the criminality criteria regarding licensing applications, which are likely to be implemented in the near future.
What Offences Might Result in Refusal
Examples of offences that often lead to application refusal include:
- Assault or battery
- Robbery or armed burglary
- Drug trafficking
- Possession of illegal weapons
- Fraud and identity theft
- Terrorism-related convictions
If your offence is recent or serious, the SIA is unlikely to approve your application until enough time has passed or evidence of reform is provided.
Why Transparency Is Crucial
Never try to hide a conviction. The SIA will find it anyway, and dishonesty can lead to an automatic ban from future applications. In fact, being open and proactive about your record can actually work in your favour.
Recommended Read: Can I Get an SIA Licence With a Criminal Record?
Understand How Health Issues Might Affect Your Application
Not all health conditions are a barrier to licensing, but some may require further assessment. If your condition could impact your ability to safely perform security duties, the SIA will want more information.
Medical and Mental Health Conditions
For example, conditions like uncontrolled epilepsy, severe anxiety, or heart conditions might raise concerns. That doesn’t mean your application will be rejected, but the SIA may ask for confirmation from your GP or occupational health provider.
Supporting Evidence the SIA May Request
You may be asked to provide medical documentation confirming that your condition is managed and doesn’t prevent you from fulfilling your duties. The goal isn’t to exclude applicants — it’s to ensure safety for everyone involved, including you.
Avoid Common Application Mistakes
Even if you meet all the requirements, simple application errors can still delay your SIA security licence.
Incomplete or Incorrect Information
Mistakes like typos, missing addresses, incorrect dates, or outdated documents are easy to make — and just as easy to prevent. Triple-check your form before submitting it. Ensure that all supporting documents match your application details exactly.
False or Misleading Declarations
Deliberately providing false information is one of the most serious mistakes you can make. If caught, the SIA won’t just reject your application — they may ban you from applying again for several years.
The best approach is honesty, accuracy, and attention to detail. And if you’re unsure about something? Ask for help before submitting.
Recommended Read: 5 SIA Training Booking Mistakes To Avoid
What To Do If Your SIA Licence Application Is Refused
Even with your best efforts, your application might still be refused — but that doesn’t mean it’s over.
The SIA will send a detailed refusal letter explaining the reason for rejection. This gives you the opportunity to appeal the decision or resubmit your application with additional evidence.
How the Appeals Process Works
You’ll typically have 21 days to request a review. During this time, you can provide supporting documentation, character references, or proof of changed circumstances (such as a spent conviction or resolved health issue).
If your appeal is successful, the decision may be overturned. If not, you’ll receive guidance on when and how you can reapply.
When and How to Reapply
In most cases, you can reapply once the issue that caused your refusal has been resolved. For criminal convictions, this usually means waiting until the offence is spent. For documentation errors, it could be as simple as correcting your paperwork.
FAQs on What Can Stop You From Getting a Security SIA Licence
Can I get an SIA licence with a driving offence?
Yes, in most cases, you can still apply successfully. Minor driving offences like speeding or parking tickets typically won’t impact your application. However, more serious or repeated offences — especially those involving drink-driving, driving without insurance, or causing harm — may raise concerns during the vetting process. The SIA assesses each case individually.
How can I lose my SIA licence?
You can lose your SIA licence if you commit a criminal offence after being licensed, fail to meet legal working requirements, breach the SIA’s standards of behaviour, or are found to have submitted false information during your application. If your circumstances change, it’s your responsibility to notify the SIA immediately.
What checks are done for an SIA licence?
The SIA conducts a range of background checks, including criminal record checks (DBS), identity verification, right to work in the UK, and address history. For some applicants, additional checks may be done if there’s a history of certain offences or inconsistencies in documentation.
What is the SIA licence fee?
The standard application fee for an SIA licence is £184. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful, so it’s crucial to ensure all your documents and training are in order before applying.
Is the SIA licence easy to get?
For most applicants, the process is straightforward, especially if you’ve completed the correct training, submitted accurate documents, and have no serious criminal history. Platforms like Get Licensed simplify the process by offering guidance and access to SIA-approved training across the UK.
Get Help Applying for Your Security SIA Licence with Get Licensed
Most people who apply for a security SIA licence are successful, but only when they prepare properly. From choosing the right SIA-approved course to making sure your first aid certificate is valid, every step matters. And when in doubt, it’s worth getting support.
At Get Licensed, we help thousands of learners every year avoid delays, pass their training, and get licensed without stress. Whether you need help with documents, course selection, or next steps after a rejection, we’re here to guide you through. Book a training course today!
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