Everything You Need to Know About SIA Licence Training in the UK

If you’re considering a career in the private security industry, one of the first and most important steps is ensuring you have the correct training to qualify for your SIA (Security Industry Authority) licence. Whether you’re planning to become a door supervisor, CCTV operator, or close protection officer, having the right qualification is not just recommended – it’s a legal requirement.

In this guide, we’ll break down what training you need, where to find an approved provider, and what qualifications are recognised across each type of licence. You’ll also find guidance on older qualifications, refresher training, and how long your certification remains valid.

Do I Need a Licence-Linked Qualification?

To apply for a front line SIA licence, you must first complete a recognised qualification specific to your role. These are referred to as ‘licence-linked qualifications’. The Security Industry Authority requires this training to make sure you’re equipped to work professionally, lawfully, and safely within the industry.

However, if you’re applying for a non-front line or key holding licence, you do not need to complete a licence-linked qualification.

Note: Your qualification must have been completed within the past 3 years if you’re applying for the first time. Reapplying after more than 3 years? You’ll need to retake your training.

How to Find an Approved Training Provider

The SIA does not provide training directly. Instead, you’ll need to complete your qualification through a provider approved by one of the SIA-recognised awarding organisations.

To maintain standards, only these approved training providers are permitted to offer the official SIA licence-linked courses. Be cautious of unapproved or uncertified courses — they will not be accepted as part of your licence application.

Click here to find an approved SIA training provider.

Breakdown of SIA Licence Types and Required Qualifications

Each licence type has a specific qualification level and awarding body. Below is a detailed breakdown by licence category.

🚪 Door Supervisor Licence

This is one of the most common licences, required for working in pubs, nightclubs, event security and more.

Required Qualification: Level 2 Award for Working as a Door Supervisor in the Private Security Industry
Awarded by: BIIAB, Highfield, NOCN, Pearson, QNUK, SFJ Awards, and others
First Aid: You must complete Emergency First Aid at Work (or equivalent) before taking this course

If you held this licence before and it expired within the last 3 years, a refresher course may be accepted.

🎥 CCTV (Public Space Surveillance) Licence

For those working in control rooms or monitoring CCTV in public areas.

Required Qualification: Level 2 Award for Working as a CCTV Operator (Public Space Surveillance)
Awarded by: BIIAB, Highfield, NOCN, City & Guilds, Pearson, and more

Learn more about CCTV licence requirements.

🛡️ Security Guarding Licence

For static guarding, site security and commercial property monitoring.

Required Qualification: Level 2 Award for Working as a Security Officer in the Private Security Industry
First Aid: Mandatory before training
Acceptable Providers: Pearson, Highfield, NOCN, QNUK, and others

💼 Cash and Valuables in Transit Licence

For operatives transporting high-value assets or sensitive deliveries.

Required Qualification: Level 2 Award for Working as a Cash and Valuables in Transit Operative
Awarded by: Laser Learning Awards, NOCN

🚘 Vehicle Immobiliser Licence

For professionals authorised to clamp or remove vehicles from private land.

Required Qualification: Level 2 Award in Vehicle Immobilisation
Awarded by: Pearson (and Edexcel for older awards)

🕶️ Close Protection Licence

For bodyguards and those working in personal security roles.

Required Qualification: Level 3 Certificate for Close Protection Operatives
Recognised Awarding Bodies: Pearson, Highfield, NOCN, SFJ Awards, QNUK
Top-Up Qualification: Available for renewing licences with previous experience

What If I Already Have an Older Qualification?

If your previous licence expired less than 3 years ago, the SIA may accept your older training, depending on the type and issuing body. However, if it’s been longer than that, you will need to complete a new qualification before applying again.

Top-up courses are available in some cases, particularly for door supervisors and close protection operatives.

No Qualification Needed? Only in These Cases

Non-front line licence: Often for managers or company directors who do not perform front line security work
Key Holding Licence: You don’t need a specific qualification, unless you’re also engaging in manned guarding during callouts

Learn more about key holding and manned guarding.

Useful Links & Further Reading

This article is based on government guidance and information provided by the Security Industry Authority (SIA). Content has been adapted and expanded for clarity and practicality for those seeking to enter or continue in the UK private security sector.

All government-sourced content is available under the Open Government Licence v3.0, except where otherwise stated.

Everything You Need to Know About SIA Licence Training in the UK

Do I Need a Licence-Linked Qualification?

How to Find an Approved Training Provider