If you want to work in a licensable security role in the UK, you need a licence from the Security Industry Authority (SIA). This guide covers the steps, from choosing the right licence to applying, based on the official GOV.UK guidance.
The short version: you must be 18 or over, pass the right licence-linked training with an approved provider, prove your identity and right to work, pass criminal record checks, and pay £204. Most licences last 3 years.
Which licence do you need?
The licences available in England, Wales and Scotland are:
- Security guarding
- Door supervision
- Public space surveillance (CCTV)
- Close protection
- Cash and valuables in transit
- Key holding
- Non-front line
Vehicle immobilisation is a licence in Northern Ireland only. If you are not sure which one fits your job, read the SIA's find out if you need a licence page, or see our guides to each type: door supervisor, security guard, CCTV, close protection and key holder and cash in transit.
Step 1: get the right training
Most front line licences need a licence-linked qualification from an approved training provider. First-time applicants need a qualification gained within the last 3 years. Key holding and non-front line licences do not need one. For door supervisors, security guards and close protection operatives, you also need a first aid qualification before the course (see the individual guides).
You can compare approved providers on the Praesova training marketplace.
Step 2: check you meet the requirements
- Age: you must be 18 or over.
- Right to work: UK citizens have this right. If you are not a UK citizen the SIA checks Home Office records itself, and if it asks for evidence you must provide it within 21 days or the application is cancelled.
- Criminal record: you must pass criminal record checks. If you live outside the UK, or have spent 6 continuous months or more outside the UK in the last 10 years, you also need overseas criminal record checks.
- Mental health: you must tell the SIA about any compulsory detention or compulsory measures under the Mental Health Act in the last 5 years. It may ask for a medical report.
Step 3: gather your ID
You need one Group A document and two Group B documents, and at least one Group B document must show your current address.
- Group A includes a signed, valid passport, a DVLA photocard driving licence, a qualifying UK biometric residence permit, or an HM Armed Forces Veteran Card.
- Group B includes recent bank or building society statements, utility bills, and council tax or mortgage statements.
Photocopies, documents printed from the internet and mobile phone bills are not accepted. Documents not in English need an English translation from an approved translator, at your cost.
Step 4: apply and pay
- Create an SIA online account.
- Complete and submit the application form. You cannot change it once submitted.
- Follow the "next steps" message. In the UK this usually means taking your reference number, documents and payment to a Post Office.
The fee is £204 for one licence. It is non-refundable, and you must pay in full up front. See our licence cost guide for the details. If you apply through an employer, it must be an SIA approved contractor and you need to link your online account with theirs.
How long does it take?
The SIA does not give a fixed timescale. It has a decision timescale indicator on its services site for an estimate. Delays usually come from incomplete information, criminal records, pending court cases, right to work checks or late employer payments. Applications show as "next steps", "checks in progress" or "decision made".
When it is granted
Most licences last three years. Put your expiry date in your diary, because you can renew up to 4 months early. Once you hold a licence you must follow its conditions, including wearing it where it can be seen while you work.
Quick questions
How old do you have to be to get an SIA licence?
You must be 18 or over.
How long is an SIA licence valid for?
Three years for all licences except the vehicle immobiliser licence (Northern Ireland only), which lasts one year.
Can I apply without training?
For security guarding, door supervision, close protection, CCTV, cash and valuables in transit and vehicle immobilising you need the licence-linked qualification first. Key holding and non-front line licences do not need one.
Can I check an SIA licence?
Yes. Use the SIA register of licence holders with a 16-digit licence number or a name and other details.
Keep your licence in one place
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