The process of getting your SIA Licence to work in the security industry can be complicated. That is why taking an SIA licence training course is the essential first step to ensure you are meeting the correct criteria for the SIA.
Licences are issued exclusively by the SIA in the UK, and you will have to sit an exam to be eligible for one – but before you even get that far, you will need to undergo some SIA-approved training.
The SIA badge ensures that licensed security operatives are professionally trained and qualified to perform their jobs, with licensing covering areas such as “manned” guarding, key holding and vehicle immobilising, CCTV operation, door supervision and more.
How to qualify for an SIA licence?
There are strict criteria governing who can apply for an SIA licence, and not everyone will be eligible
To qualify, you must:
– Be at least 18 years old
– Pass an ID check
– Pass a criminal records check
– Be eligible to work in the UK
– Complete SIA-approved training, which we will present in the following.
SIA licence types
There are two types of SIA licence: a frontline licence, which is required if undertaking the licensable activity, other than key-holding activities; and a non-front line licence, which is necessary for those who manage, supervise, and employ individuals who engage in a licensable activity if no frontline activity is conducted.
SIA training course
If you are interested in working in the security sector, whether as a Door Supervisor, Security Guard or CCTV Operative, you will need to obtain an SIA Licence.
If you want to quickly obtain your SIA badge licence and find a job in this industry as soon as possible, you must make the first step of the process and complete a pre-employment course.
SIA training courses exceed industry standards and develop your skills and understanding in various areas around the SIA field.
SIA course online
The SIA licence was created to control and maintain standards within the security industry. It allows you to work as a security guard, door supervisor, CCTV operator, and Close Protection Officer. Licensing guarantees that private security operatives are professionally trained and qualified to do their jobs in the security sector.
SIA badge cost
- The cost of an SIA licence application to individuals has been reduced from 1 April 2020. Individual licences for all sectors cost £190 however if you need to apply for more than one licence each other licence will cost £95. These last for three years (except for the vehicle immobiliser licence which is valid for 12 months).
The costs of the SIA badge are non-refundable, so ensure that you have all the necessary documentation and correct licences before applying.
How long does it take for the SIA licence to come through?
It can take between 3-5 weeks if there are no complications with the application. However, incomplete, or incorrectly completed applications can take significantly longer.
SIA licence renewal
SIA licences do not renew automatically, so you should know when it expires to continue working legally.
The SIA recommends applying for renewal as early as possible to avoid the risk of any delay that might prevent you from working for a time. Licences can be renewed up to four months before their expiration.
Applying early will not shorten the length of your licence – the new licence will commence when your current one expires. Licence renewal costs the same as a new application (£190). Renewals can be undertaken either by yourself or via your employer. The Licence Assist and Licence Management services are available for employers, though they are only available to SIA-approved contractors.
Renful Premier Technologies has been at the forefront of advanced security training since 1994, specialising in the research, development and delivery of state-of-the-art products and services.
We aim to improve security personnel selection, training, and management, using innovative software that is fully bespoke to suit different requirements, applications, and sectors. It can be integrated into the existing security infrastructure.
If you still haven’t found the training course you are looking for, or if you want to choose from a broader range of products, we have made the Products Catalogue available to you. Of course, if you need support or additional information, the Renful Premier Technologies team is at your disposal!
