The role of a door supervisor is often misunderstood. Far from being merely “bouncers”, today’s door supervisors are trained professionals responsible for maintaining order, ensuring safety, and managing access at venues across the UK. From bustling nightclubs to high-end casinos, they serve as the first point of contact and play a critical role in safeguarding the public.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore exactly what a door supervisor does, the skills required, how to become one, and dispel some common myths along the way.


🛡️ What Exactly Does a Door Supervisor Do?

A door supervisor, often stationed at the entrance of licensed premises such as nightclubs, pubs, and event venues, is a frontline security professional licensed by the Security Industry Authority (SIA). Their duties include:

  • Controlling access to the venue – verifying IDs, denying entry when necessary
  • Managing queues and preventing disorderly conduct
  • Monitoring for potential threats or safety issues
  • Responding to incidents such as fights, medical emergencies, or fire alarms
  • Liaising with police or emergency services if required

Unlike in-house security who may remain discreet and blend in, door supervisors are a visible deterrent, usually identifiable by their uniforms, high-visibility armbands, or SIA badges.


🎓 What Qualifications Are Required?

To legally operate as a door supervisor in the UK, individuals must complete a certified training course and apply for an SIA licence. The course, regulated by Ofqual, is known as the Level 2 Award for Working as a Door Supervisor within the Private Security Industry.

The training typically runs over six days and covers:

  • Working in the private security industry
  • Conflict management and physical intervention
  • Door supervision roles and responsibilities
  • Emergency procedures and safety protocols

As of 2021, all candidates must also hold a valid Emergency First Aid at Work qualification before commencing door supervisor training. Once complete, the SIA licence application can be made online.


🔍 Core Responsibilities of a Door Supervisor

Door supervisors wear many hats during a shift. Their responsibilities may include:

  • Checking ID and managing entry protocols
  • Monitoring customer behaviour and intervening where necessary
  • Dealing with intoxicated or aggressive individuals
  • Escorting people off the premises if required
  • Logging incidents and completing security reports
  • Using two-way radios to coordinate with other staff

Ultimately, their job is to keep everyone – patrons and staff – safe while maintaining a calm and welcoming environment.


🧠 Skills Every Door Supervisor Must Have

Beyond physical presence, effective door supervisors require:

  • Excellent communication skills – to diffuse tension and manage crowds
  • Good judgement – spotting early warning signs of trouble
  • Problem-solving abilities – making quick decisions under pressure
  • Calm demeanour – particularly in high-stress or confrontational situations
  • Teamwork – seamless cooperation with fellow supervisors

It’s also a physically demanding job, so being able to stand on your feet for long hours and wear the right footwear is a practical necessity.


💬 Modern Misconceptions: The ‘Bouncer’ Stereotype

The outdated image of the thuggish, aggressive bouncer is well and truly dead. Today’s door supervisors are professional, trained, and regulated individuals whose first priority is de-escalation.

Since the introduction of SIA licensing in 2001, significant improvements in training and compliance have helped remove unsuitable individuals from the industry. Door supervisors are now expected to resolve conflicts through conversation, not confrontation.

With tools like body-worn cameras, incident reporting, and better public awareness, the modern door supervisor is a people-focused professional committed to safety, fairness, and service.


💷 How Much Do Door Supervisors Earn?

Pay can vary depending on location, venue type, and experience:

  • Bars and Clubs: £9 – £12 per hour
  • Casinos & High-Security Venues: £10 – £13 per hour
  • Head Door Supervisors: £15+ per hour
  • Annual salaries: Typically range from £20,000 – £35,000

Night shifts, bank holidays and larger venues often command higher rates. Some door supervisors also take on additional work as security guards or event stewards to supplement their income.


📋 Can a Door Supervisor Work as a Security Guard?

Yes, many do! Door supervisors hold broader training than standard security guards and can legally carry out guarding duties – but not vice versa unless both licences are held.

Security guards typically work in shopping centres, offices, and construction sites, whereas door supervisors are primarily found at licensed venues with customer-facing responsibilities.


⚖️ What Powers Do Door Supervisors Have?

While not law enforcement officers, door supervisors have the legal right to:

  • Refuse entry and remove individuals from premises
  • Use reasonable force if absolutely necessary
  • Search individuals (with consent or under specific lawful grounds)
  • Monitor and record using CCTV or body-worn cameras

They must always act impartially, documenting any incidents and avoiding discrimination or personal bias.


📏 How Many Door Supervisors Does a Venue Need?

This depends entirely on venue size, capacity, and risk assessment. However, general guidance suggests:

  • Two supervisors per main entrance
  • Additional team members inside, depending on layout and peak hours
  • At least one supervisor per 100 patrons as a basic benchmark

Supervisors should also be mindful of gender balance and group dynamics when allowing entry, especially to avoid being outnumbered by potentially unruly groups.


🕵️ Can I Be a Door Supervisor With a Criminal Record?

The SIA considers past convictions when deciding on licence eligibility. In general, individuals must be conviction-free for at least three years before applying.

Serious offences or recent criminal activity will likely disqualify a candidate, though each case is reviewed on its own merits.

Read more about criminal records and SIA licences.


📅 Age Requirements & Legal Limits

  • Minimum age: You must be 18 or over to apply for a door supervision licence
  • Identification: Proof of age and identity will be required during training and licensing

🎥 Do Door Supervisors Use CCTV?

Absolutely. Many venues assign door supervisors to monitor live CCTV footage or review recordings following incidents. Body-worn cameras are also increasingly common and help with evidence gathering and de-escalation.

All recordings must be handled in compliance with data protection laws.


👔 What Do Door Supervisors Wear?

Uniforms vary, but most wear smart black attire with identifiable features such as:

  • SIA badge displayed clearly
  • Company insignia or high-vis vest
  • Radio earpieces for communication

Uniforms signal authority, visibility, and trustworthiness – all critical for public-facing roles.


📚 Final Thoughts

Becoming a door supervisor in the UK is more than just standing at a door. It’s a licensed, regulated profession requiring intelligence, patience, communication and physical presence. With the right training and mindset, door supervision can be a rewarding and respected career.

If you’re considering entering the industry, ensure you complete an approved training course and understand your responsibilities under the law.


All advice provided above is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal guidance. For official information, always refer to the SIA website.

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