How to Get Your SIA Licence: A 2026 Step-by-Step Guide
July 2026 — Conifer Insights
Security
To work in security in the UK, you need an SIA licence. Without one, you cannot legally do the job. The process is simple once you know the steps, and most people are working within a couple of months. This guide explains how to get your licence, what it costs in 2026, and how to avoid common delays.
What is an SIA licence?
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) is the body that regulates the private security industry in the UK. It was set up under the Private Security Industry Act 2001. By law, anyone who does a “licensable activity” must hold a valid SIA licence. The SIA checks that each person is suitable to work in security. This means a clear enough background, the right training, and proof of identity.
There are two types of licences. A front-line licence lets you do the work itself, such as working on a door, patrolling a site, or watching CCTV. A non-front-line licence is for managers and directors who run the business but do not do the hands-on work. The non-front-line licence is free. This guide covers the front-line licence, which is what most people need.
Which SIA licence do I need?
The licence you need depends on the work you want to do. The main front-line licences are:
- Door Supervisor. The most popular and flexible licence. It lets you work on doors at pubs, clubs, events and places that serve alcohol. It also covers general security guarding.
- Security Guard. For static guarding, retail security and patrols. It does not cover places that serve alcohol, so many people choose the Door Supervisor licence instead.
- CCTV (Public Space Surveillance). For operating CCTV systems that watch public spaces.
- Close Protection. For bodyguard and personal protection work.
- Cash and Valuables in Transit. For moving cash and valuables safely.
- Key Holding. For responding to alarms and holding keys to client sites.
If you are not sure, the Door Supervisor licence is a good choice. It covers the widest range of work.
How do I get an SIA licence? (step by step)
Here are the steps for a Door Supervisor licence, which is the most common one:
- Do the training: You need to pass an SIA-approved Level 2 course (the Level 2 Award for Working as a Door Supervisor). You also need a valid Level 3 Emergency First Aid at Work certificate before you can finish the door supervisor course. The course usually takes about six days. It is assessed by multiple-choice exams and a practical test.
- Get your certificate: When you pass, your training provider gives you a certificate. You need this to apply.
- Apply online: Create an account on the SIA website and fill in the application.
- Prove your identity: You need to show who you are, usually with a passport or driving licence. The easiest way is at a Post Office. You can also use an approved person to confirm your identity.
- Pay the fee and pass the checks: The fee is £204. The SIA then runs a criminal record and background check.
- Wait for the result: The SIA aims to deal with applications within 25 working days. Sometimes it takes up to six weeks. It can take longer if you have lived abroad for six months or more, because you may need to provide extra documents.
- Get your licence: Your licence comes as a card. It lasts for three years.
How much does an SIA licence cost in 2026?
The SIA fee went up from £184 to £204 on 1 April 2026. The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is refused. So it is worth getting your details right the first time.
You also need to pay for training. A Door Supervisor course usually costs between £200 and £350. The price depends on the provider and where you study. Most courses now include the first aid certificate. In total, for the course, first aid, and licence together, most new starters spend about £300 to £360.
There are two useful discounts. If you already hold an SIA licence with more than four months left, and you apply for a second licence in a different area, you get 50% off the second one (£102 instead of £204). If your card is lost or damaged, a replacement costs £36.
How long does an SIA licence last?
A front-line licence lasts for three years from the date it is granted. After that, you need to renew it.
How do I renew my SIA licence?
Renewal works in a similar way to the first application. You log in to your SIA account, fill in the renewal, pay the £204 fee, and submit a new criminal record check. Two things often cause problems. First, you must complete top-up (refresher) training and hold a valid first aid certificate before you can renew a Door Supervisor or Security Officer licence. Second, do not leave it too late. You can renew up to about four months before your licence runs out. Renewing early means you will not have a gap that stops you from working.
Can I work while I wait for my licence?
As a rule, you must hold a valid front-line licence before you do security work. There is one exception. If you work for a company on the SIA’s Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS), it may be able to give you work once your application has been submitted and accepted. Your employer will tell you if this applies. If you are not sure, do not start the work until your licence is granted. Working without a licence is a crime, both for you and for the company that gives you the work.
Do I need the right to work in the UK?
Yes. You must have the right to work in the UK to hold an SIA licence. The SIA checks this as part of your application.
About Conifer: Once you have your licence, we may be able to help you find work. Conifer places security staff in door, retail, corporate and event roles. Most of the people we place are employed by us. Some work on a self-employed basis, depending on the job. We deal with the pay and the paperwork. Get in touch if you want to know more.
