How the SIA Licensing Process Works (And Why It Matters to You)
How the SIA Licensing Process Works (And Why It Matters to You)
When you hire a security guard or work with a security company in the UK, you’ll often hear about the SIA licence. But what exactly is it, how does the licensing process work, and why should it matter to you as a business owner or event organiser?
Let’s break it down.
What Is the SIA?
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) is the organisation responsible for regulating the private security industry in the UK. Their role is to ensure that security professionals are properly trained, vetted, and competent to carry out their roles safely and lawfully.
An SIA licence is essentially a stamp of approval that a security professional has met strict standards.
Who Needs an SIA Licence?
Any individual performing licensable activities in the private security sector must hold a valid SIA licence. This includes:
Security guards
Door supervisors
CCTV operators
Close protection officers
Cash and valuables in transit operatives
Key holders
Without this licence, it’s illegal for someone to work in these roles.
The SIA Licensing Process: Step by Step
Here’s how the process works for anyone applying for an SIA licence:
- Complete Approved Training
Applicants must first complete an SIA-approved training course specific to the type of licence they’re applying for. This covers essential topics like:
Conflict management
Health and safety
Physical intervention (for some roles)
Emergency procedures - Apply for the Licence
Once training is complete, the applicant submits their licence application to the SIA, providing:
Proof of identity
Proof of address
Certificate of training completion - Undergo Background Checks
The SIA conducts thorough checks to ensure applicants are suitable. This includes:
Criminal record checks
Right to work verification
Mental health checks (in some cases) - Pay the Application Fee
Applicants pay a licensing fee (currently £190 for a three-year licence as of 2025). - Await a Decision
The SIA reviews the application and background checks. If everything is in order, the licence is granted.
- Receive Licence and Start Work
Once granted, the licence holder can legally work in the relevant security role.
Why Does SIA Licensing Matter to You?
As someone hiring security services, knowing your security staff are SIA-licensed gives you confidence that:
They’ve received appropriate training.
They’ve passed rigorous background checks.
They understand their legal responsibilities.
They meet high professional standards.
Hiring unlicensed security staff can expose your business or event to serious risks, including legal consequences and insurance issues.
The Added Value of Licensed Security
SIA licensing isn’t just about compliance—it’s about quality and professionalism. Licensed guards are better equipped to:
De-escalate conflicts
Handle emergencies
Provide excellent customer service
Represent your business or event with confidence
In short, they protect not only your physical assets but also your reputation.
The SIA licensing process may seem rigorous—but that’s exactly the point. It ensures that only trained, vetted, and competent professionals are entrusted with your safety. When you hire SIA-licensed security staff, you’re investing in peace of mind, legal compliance, and a higher standard of protection.
Always ask to see a valid SIA licence—it’s your guarantee of professional security you can trust.
