What is an SIA licence?
A SIA (Security Industry Authority) licence is a legal requirement for anyone undertaking a private security role within the UK.
Front line vs non-front line SIA licence
There are two categories when it comes to an SIA licence; front line and non-front line. A front line licence is necessary if you personally perform any security services whilst non-frontline licences are for individuals working in a role where they supervise or manage those working in frontline security roles.
Types of front line licences
Security Guard Licence: for security roles that involve guarding premises or property and include general security duties such as access control, patrols and monitoring.
Door Supervisor: covers the same duties that fall under the security guard licence, however this licence also allows the individual to work at licenced locations (i.e. bars or clubs), protecting the premises against damage, theft, unauthorised access, or disorderly behaviour.
Close Protection: for security roles that involve the protection of people, typically VIP’s and high net-worth individuals. Duties include assessing and mitigating security risks whilst providing a rapid response to any security incidents to ensure the safety of the client.
Keyholding: This enables the licenced officer to hold the keys for properties that may be under the protection of security. This licence must be held alongside other licences mentioned above for the individual to be able to undertake other types of security work such as responding to alarms or searching the premises.
CCTV: for security roles that involve operating and monitoring CCTV and surveillance equipment.
About the licence
Most front-line licences come in the form of a plastic photocard that must be worn when a security officer is working. The exception to this is the key holding licence, which comes in the form of a letter.
There are some allowances to this if a job involves covert activity (e.g. store detective).
SIA licence cost
After completing your relevant security course, the current cost of applying for an SIA licence is currently £184. There are discounts available if you are looking to hold more than one licence. A licence is valid for three years, after which, the current cost to renew your licence is also £184.