Why do You Need a 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.
How to Apply
Pass the course
Depending upon the type of Course, it may take around 6 days to complete. The training course is assessed by multiple choice exams and a practical assessment.
Complete the licence application on the SIA website
The cost of starting a licence application is £184. The SIA will get back to you within 25 working days. In rare cases, this can take up to 6 weeks.
Complete identity checks
You will need to verify your identity to satisfy parts of your SIA application, namely your photo ID. The easiest way to do this is at the Post Office. You can also have someone with a British passport, who is not related to you, to sign the back of your photo ID.
Submit application to the SIA
The SIA will verify your identity and run a background check on your criminal record. If you have lived abroad for 6 months or more, you may be required to provide some supporting evidence.
Receive your 3 year licence in the post
You are finally licensed! Your SIA Licence is valid for 3 years.
FAQs
What is cost of an SIA licence?
The licence application cost is £184. This is paid directly to the SIA, the licensing authority for the security industry.
How long is the SIA licence valid for?
A newly issued SIA licence is valid for 3 years.
Who needs an SIA licence?
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.
How long does it take to get an SIA licence?
It can take 25 working days to process a licence application. In some cases, this can take up to 6 weeks due to additional security checks.
Can I work in the security industry without an SIA licence?
It is illegal to work in the security industry without an SIA Licence. However, some employers can qualify for exemptions under Section 4(4) of the Private Security Industry Act 2001.
What checks are done when applying for an SIA licence?
The SIA will check the course qualification, identify and criminal background during the licence application process.
Can I apply for an SIA licence without passing the course?
You may apply for a non-frontline SIA licence without passing the course. For all frontline roles such as Security Guarding, Door Supervisor, CCTV Operator, Close Protection etc you must pass the course before applying for the licence.