How to Get an SIA Licence in 2026: Complete Guide

If you want to work in the private security industry in the UK, you need a licence from the Security Industry Authority (SIA). Whether you want to work as a door supervisor, CCTV operator, security guard or close protection officer, this guide covers everything you need to know about getting your SIA licence in 2026.

What Is the SIA?

The Security Industry Authority is the government body responsible for regulating the private security industry in England, Scotland and Wales. Established under the Private Security Industry Act 2001, the SIA ensures that people working in security roles are properly trained, vetted and licensed.

Working in a licensable security role without a valid SIA licence is a criminal offence. Employers who deploy unlicensed staff also face prosecution and fines.

Types of SIA Licence

There are six main types of SIA licence, each covering different security roles:

Door Supervisor Licence

The most popular SIA licence. Required for anyone working on the door at pubs, clubs, bars, festivals and events. Door supervisors check IDs, manage entry, deal with conflict and ensure the safety of customers and staff.

Typical roles: Door supervisor, bouncer, event security, festival steward

Security Guard Licence

Required for static guarding, mobile patrols and manned security roles. This covers the majority of security guard positions in the UK, including retail security, corporate reception security and construction site guarding.

Typical roles: Security guard, retail security officer, mobile patrol officer, concierge

CCTV Operator Licence (Public Space Surveillance)

Required if you operate CCTV systems that monitor public spaces. This includes town centre CCTV control rooms, transport hubs and any role where you are monitoring public areas via camera systems.

Typical roles: CCTV operator, control room operator, surveillance officer

Close Protection Licence

Required for bodyguard and close protection work. This is one of the more specialist licences and requires additional training beyond the standard SIA courses. Close protection officers protect individuals from threats including assault, kidnap and harassment.

Typical roles: Close protection officer, bodyguard, executive protection

Cash and Valuables in Transit (CVIT)

Required for transporting cash, precious metals, jewellery and other high-value items. This covers roles at companies like Loomis, G4S Cash Solutions and Brink's.

Typical roles: CIT crew, cash processing, ATM engineer

Key Holding Licence

Required if you hold keys to commercial premises and respond to alarm activations. Key holders are responsible for attending premises out of hours when alarms are triggered, checking for intruders and securing the site.

Typical roles: Key holder, alarm response officer

How Much Does an SIA Licence Cost?

As of 2026, the costs for an SIA licence are:

• Licence application fee: £210 for a 3-year licence
• Training course: £150 to £350 depending on the licence type and training provider
• Total cost: approximately £360 to £560

The close protection licence is typically more expensive, with training courses ranging from £1,500 to £3,000 due to the intensive nature of the qualification.

Some employers will pay for your SIA licence and training as part of their recruitment process, so it is always worth asking.

Training Requirements

Before you can apply for your SIA licence, you must complete an approved training course. The training requirements vary by licence type:

Door Supervisor Training

• Duration: Typically 4 to 6 days
• Qualification: Level 2 Award for Door Supervisors in the Private Security Industry
• Content: Conflict management, physical intervention, emergency procedures, licensing law, drug awareness, first aid
• Assessment: Written exams and practical assessments

Security Guard Training

• Duration: Typically 3 to 4 days
• Qualification: Level 2 Award for Security Officers in the Private Security Industry
• Content: Working in the security industry, conflict management, emergency procedures, communication skills
• Assessment: Written exams

CCTV Operator Training

• Duration: Typically 3 days
• Qualification: Level 2 Award for CCTV Operators (Public Space Surveillance) in the Private Security Industry
• Content: CCTV law and regulation, operating procedures, evidence handling, data protection
• Assessment: Written exams and practical assessments

Close Protection Training

• Duration: Typically 2 to 3 weeks
• Qualification: Level 3 Certificate for Close Protection Operatives in the Private Security Industry
• Content: Threat assessment, route planning, embus and debus drills, first aid, surveillance detection, defensive driving
• Assessment: Written exams and practical exercises

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Complete Your Training

Find an SIA-approved training provider and complete the relevant qualification. Make sure the provider is listed on the SIA's register of approved training centres. You will receive a certificate upon completion.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

You will need:

• Proof of identity (passport or driving licence)
• Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement from the last 3 months)
• Your training qualification certificate
• A passport-style photograph
• Proof of right to work in the UK

Step 3: Apply Online

Visit the SIA website and complete the online application. You will need to:

• Create an account on the SIA portal
• Fill in your personal details
• Upload your documents
• Pay the £210 application fee
• Declare any criminal convictions

Step 4: Criminal Record Check

The SIA will conduct a criminal record check as part of your application. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but certain offences may prevent you from obtaining a licence. The SIA considers the nature, seriousness and relevance of any convictions.

Step 5: Receive Your Licence

If your application is approved, you will receive your SIA licence card in the post. The current processing time is approximately 4 to 6 weeks, though this can vary. Your licence is valid for 3 years.

Renewing Your SIA Licence

Your SIA licence is valid for 3 years. You should apply to renew at least 16 weeks before it expires to avoid any gap in your licence.

To renew, you will need to:

• Complete a top-up training course (shorter than the initial course)
• Submit a renewal application online
• Pay the £210 renewal fee
• Pass another criminal record check

The SIA recommends renewing early. If your licence expires before your renewal is processed, you cannot legally work in a security role until the new licence is issued.

Tips for Getting Your SIA Licence Quickly

• Choose a reputable training provider with good reviews and high pass rates
• Have your documents ready before starting the application to avoid delays
• Apply as soon as you complete training — do not wait
• Double-check your application for errors, as mistakes cause processing delays
• Consider fast-track training courses that run Monday to Friday for a quicker turnaround

Start Your Security Career

Getting your SIA licence is the first step to a rewarding career in the security industry. With your licence in hand, you can apply for thousands of roles across the UK — from door supervision in city centre nightlife to corporate security in London.

Ready to find your first role? Browse the latest SIA-licensed security jobs on Security Jobs UK.