Get Your SIA Licence

Everything you need to start your career in the UK security industry. Choose your licence, find training, and get working.

How to Get Licensed

1

Choose your licence type

Decide which SIA licence matches the security role you want. Door Supervisor and Security Guard are the most popular starting points.

2

Complete approved training

Book a course with an SIA-approved training provider. Training covers conflict management, physical intervention (for Door Supervisors), and legal responsibilities.

3

Pass the exam

You'll sit a multiple-choice exam at the end of your training course. The pass mark is typically 70%. Most people pass first time.

4

Apply for your SIA licence

Apply online at the SIA website. You'll need your training certificate, ID, and proof of right to work in the UK. The licence fee is £184.

5

Get verified on SecurityJobsUK

Once you have your licence, create your profile and enter your SIA licence number. We verify it automatically against the SIA register.

SIA Licence Types

Choose the licence that matches the security role you want

Door Supervisor

Required for bouncers, door staff, and anyone controlling entry to licensed venues.

Training4–6 days training
Cost (approx)£200–£350
Validity3 years
DemandHigh
View Door Supervisor jobs →

Security Guard

For static guarding roles — offices, retail, construction sites, events, and corporate buildings.

Training4–5 days training
Cost (approx)£180–£300
Validity3 years
DemandHigh
View Security Guard jobs →

CCTV Operator

Required for monitoring public space CCTV systems in control rooms.

Training3–4 days training
Cost (approx)£150–£280
Validity3 years
DemandMedium
View CCTV Operator jobs →

Close Protection

Bodyguard licence. Requires prior security experience and an advanced training course.

Training14+ days training
Cost (approx)£2,000–£4,000
Validity3 years
DemandSpecialist
View Close Protection jobs →

Key Holding

For alarm response and key holding services — responding to intruder alarms out of hours.

TrainingIncluded with Security Guard
Cost (approx)Included
Validity3 years
DemandMedium
View Key Holding jobs →

Approved Training Providers

Find an SIA-approved training course near you

Training Partner Directory Coming Soon

We're partnering with SIA-approved training providers across the UK to offer discounted courses for SecurityJobsUK members.

Find Providers on SIA.gov.uk

Key Information

SIA Licence Fee

£184

Standard application fee for all licence types. Paid directly to the SIA when you apply.

Processing Time

6–8 weeks

Average time from application to receiving your licence card. Apply early — don't wait until you have a job offer.

Right to Work

You must have the legal right to work in the UK to obtain an SIA licence. The SIA will verify this during your application.

Criminal Record Check

The SIA conducts a criminal record check as part of every application. Some convictions may affect your eligibility — the SIA considers each case individually.

Ready to Get Started?

Create your free profile now and add your SIA licence when you get it. We'll verify it automatically.