How to get an SIA Licence
It is a legal requirement to get an SIA licence to work in the private security industry. Learn how you can apply for your licence and work legally as a Door Supervisor, CCTV Operator, Security Guard or Close Protection Officer.
The first step to getting an SIA Licence starts with training.
To apply for an SIA Licence, you must first complete the relevant training course and pass its assessment. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have satisfied all the training requirements before you apply, as you will not be granted as SIA Licence unless you do so.
The type of training depends on the type of job you wish to pursue.
SIA Licence application fees
The cost of applying for an SIA Licence is £190. If you already hold a valid SIA Badge you can apply for another at a discounted rate.
The costs of the SIA card is non-refundable, so ensure that you have all the necessary documentation and correct licences before applying.
Who can apply for an SIA Licence?
Anyone can apply for an SIA licence as long as you meet the following criteria:
18+
You are over 18 years old
You hold the valid SIA training qualification
You have documents to prove your identity
You have the right to work in the uk
If you haven’t passed your SIA training course yet find your course with Get Licensed to search for the best training courses all over the UK.
SIA Licence application process
Complete and pass your SIA training course
Submit your licence application to the SIA
Complete the relevant check
As soon as your licence application is accepted you can start working
Which SIA Licence do I need?
The roles that you can undertake will depend on which SIA licence you have. A holder of an SIA CCTV Licence can watch public images but can’t work as a security guard. In the same way a holder of an SIA Door Supervisor licence can’t work as a CCTV Operative.
✅ Cash and Valuables in Transit
✅ Close Protection Operative
✅ Security Guarding
✅ Door Supervision
✅ Public Space Surveillance (CCTV)
How long does it take to get an SIA Licence?
There is no average length of time for getting your SIA licence but the SIA advise that this can take up to 25 working days. In rare cases where issues come up with identity checks or questions about criminal records, it could take up to 6 weeks or even more. During this time, a decision will be reached on whether a licence should be issued or not. The SIA will write explaining their decision and, if successfully granted, you will receive a licence that is valid for 3 years.
Factors that can affect how long the application process takes are:
- Whether you have the right to work in the UK
- An incomplete address history
- Criminal record checks
- If you have spent any time outside of the UK
⚠️WARNING: It is a legal requirement for anyone working in the United Kingdom Security Industry to have the necessary training and qualifications, accredited by the Security Industry Authority. To practice in the industry without a valid SIA Licence is a criminal offence, which means you could be fined and or sent to prison.
Renewing
Renewing your licence couldn’t be easier and as long as your licence is valid this can be done online through the security industry authority website.
You can’t renew a licence unless you currently hold an active licence in that sector. If your licence has expired, you will need to apply for a new licence.
Apply for SIA LicenceCertifications and Verifications
