What Does The New SIA Licence Look Like? Old Vs New

If you recently applied for a licence and are eagerly awaiting your shiny new card, it’s worth noting that since 2016 a new version was introduced to replace the old one. So, what does it look like and how does it compare to the previous one?

For starters, it’s pint-sized and comes in the shape of a credit card to fit snugly inside your wallet or purse. Here are some new features which we think are super cool:

Improved security features:

• Doubled picture size
• Expiry date engraved on the photo
• UV, micro text and engraving
• Barcode and QR code instead of a chip
• Silver holographic overlay

If you are private security company and wish to check your security operative’s ID, you’ll want to look out for the following:

• Embossed date: This can be found under the photograph and the numbers are raised above the surface, so you can feel them by running your finger/thumb over it.
• Microtext: On the front you will see ‘Security Industry Authority’ printed at the top of the ‘i’ and inside the ‘a’ on the back. This is clearly visible with a magnifying glass
• Barcode: On the back of the card there is a barcode, which when scanned takes you to your licence number; same as on Register of Licence Holders (ROHL)
• UV Gillock: On the reverse of the card, a fine spiral pattern is visible under UV light
• QR Code: On the reverse of the card. This takes you to the most up-to-date licence conditions on the SIA website.

For private security companies carrying out the above checks, they will need certain equipment to do so. There are now overt and covert security features to prevent counterfeiting. See below:

• Magnifying glass: To read microtext and engravings
• UV torch: For reading all the above
• Barcode and QR reader: For scanning and opening a link to licence conditions.

All pretty fancy, right? But what about the old licence? How does it hold up in comparison? Here are some of its key features:

• Silver hologram to prevent counterfeiting
• Electronic chip
• Large print expiry date
• Licence holder’s picture
• Licence holder’s licence number

As you can see from the pictures, with the absence of the microchip and the featured picture appearing larger and more prominent in the new version, the overall design is a lot cleaner and less fussy. Also, the barcode in place of the large black strip of the old one, is also a welcome addition in terms of presentation.

Remember, if you still hold the older licence, don’t worry. They will still be in circulation well into 2019.

How to work in the security sector

If you are interested in working in the security sector, whether it be as a Door Supervisor, Security Guard or CCTV Operative, you will need to obtain a SIA Licence.

To obtain a SIA Licence, you will need to complete a course. Once you have completed the course, will you then be able to apply for an SIA Licence and work in the security sector.

Looking for jobs? 

To find the latest security jobs, check out our Jobs Board, which has 1,000+ jobs from the UK’s best security companies. 

If you’re on the hunt for a security job on the go, download the GuardPass app for all the latest jobs and more. The GuardPass App is available for download on the Apple App Store or on the Google Play Store.